Onboarding refers to the practice in which new employees are integrated into the organization. It entails activities that enable new hires to finish the initial new-hire orientation process and learn about the organization (Baker & DiPiro, 2019). Onboarding at VA Health Care System takes two weeks. The formal onboarding processes in the organization include organized tasks and procedures that assist new employees in adjusting to their new position (Jeske & Olson, 2021). The HR department organizes coordinated in-classroom training, orientation, and socialization activities. Besides, the new hires are emailed and given hard copies containing information about the organization such as vision, mission, core values, rules and regulations, code of conduct, general policies, employees’ benefits, and organizational hierarchy.
Informal onboarding processes that I have observed at VA Health Care include teaming a new employee with a buddy. The buddy is responsible for giving directions around the organization and informal instructions (Jeske & Olson, 2021). In addition, the HR office sends care packages to new hires containing a welcoming card, candies, and items having an organization logo such as a mug, water bottles, cap, key holder, and t-shirt.
Factors that contribute to the success of the onboarding processes at VA healthcare include having a consistent structure on onboarding practices for all employees. Besides, there is team involvement in the organization in that the entire hospital team is involved in welcoming new employees rather than the HR department alone. Communication has significantly contributed to the success of the onboarding process since new hires are provided with all the information they need to know about the organization and thrive in their position. Nevertheless, the onboarding process can be improved by having regular check-ups of the new hires to ensure they are comfortable and offer them the support they require to succeed.
References
Baker, B., & DiPiro, J. T. (2019). Evaluation of a Structured Onboarding Process and Tool for Faculty Members in a School of Pharmacy. American journal of pharmaceutical education, 83(6), 7100. https://doi.org/10.5688/ajpe7100
Jeske, D., & Olson, D. (2021). Onboarding new hires: recognising mutual learning opportunities. Journal of Work-Applied Management. https://doi.org/10.1108/JWAM-04-2021-0036
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