Typical mistakes in the onboarding process

Typical Mistakes in the Onboarding Process: How to Avoid Ineffectiveness in Onboarding?

The first impression that new employees have of a company is crucial for their long-term motivation, retention, and productivity. An effective onboarding programme lays the foundation for successful collaboration. However, many companies make mistakes that render the process inefficient and frustrating for everyone involved. Here are the most common mistakes and how they can be avoided to create a strong onboarding experience.

The Most Common Onboarding Mistakes

1. Lack of Organisation

Many companies lack a clearly structured onboarding strategy. This leads to uncoordinated processes and stress for HR, managers, and new employees. Without schedules and clearly defined steps, new hires often feel disoriented. A well-organised strategy provides clarity and a positive experience.

2. Lack of Communication

Without regular feedback in the onboarding process, companies miss the opportunity to identify and improve weaknesses. Studies show that regular feedback can reduce employee turnover by up to 14.9%. Communication should not only be one-sided – a dialogue with new employees fosters transparency and trust.

3. No Digital Onboarding Process

Paperwork and manual processes seem outdated and consume time. Digital solutions like onboarding apps modernise the onboarding process, centralise tasks, and automate administrative processes. Tools like Sundae OS offer features like real-time tracking, digital document management, and interactive training that ease the transition.

4. Neglected Pre-Boarding

The phase between contract acceptance and the first working day is often underestimated. Pre-boarding allows new employees to familiarise themselves with company values, team dynamics, and relevant information before their start date. This strengthens engagement and eases the transition.

5. Unclear Responsibilities

Onboarding is not solely the responsibility of the HR department. Close collaboration between HR, managers, and colleagues is essential to create a comprehensive onboarding experience. Clear roles and responsibilities prevent misunderstandings and foster integration.

6. Overloaded Onboarding

Too much information in a short time can overwhelm new employees. Instead, onboarding should occur gradually, allowing sufficient time for questions, repetitions, and adaptation to the new environment.

7. Lack of Feedback and Follow-up

Many companies neglect regular feedback sessions during and after the onboarding period. Continuous feedback helps new employees feel secure, understand expectations better, and effectively fulfil their roles.

Why Effective Onboarding is So Important

A well-thought-out onboarding process increases employee retention by 82% and productivity by 70%. Mistakes in onboarding, on the other hand, can incur high costs – the average expenditure for replacing an employee is €13,903. Moreover, inefficient onboarding negatively impacts motivation and engagement.

The Solution: Modern and Structured Onboarding

1. Use of Digital Tools

Modern onboarding apps like Sundae OS help in avoiding typical mistakes. They offer:

• Interactive training and playful elements like point systems.

• Centralised platforms for all relevant information.

• Real-time tracking for work time recording.

2. Focus on Pre-Boarding

A structured pre-boarding process introduces new employees to company values and optimally prepares them for their first day. This includes:

• Welcome messages.

• Access to digital platforms and documents.

• Information about the team and company culture.

3. Communication and Feedback

A regular dialogue with new employees promotes their engagement and builds trust. Feedback sessions should be an integral part of onboarding from the start.

4. Long-term Perspective

Onboarding does not end after the first week. Continuous support and regular training are crucial for promoting long-term knowledge and motivation.

Conclusion: Onboarding as a Strategic Tool

Onboarding is much more than just a formality – it is an investment in the company's future. With a well-thought-out strategy, digital support, and open communication, companies can strengthen employee retention, reduce costs, and lay the foundation for successful collaboration. Tools like Sundae OS make this process more efficient, interactive, and sustainable – a win for both companies and employees alike.