Onboarding
Onboarding is the process of introducing a new worker to the organisation, people, tools and expectations of their role.
It can include paperwork before the start date, equipment setup, safety training, introductions and support while you learn the work. Some employers call it induction. A useful plan makes clear who will answer questions and what you should be able to do after the first few weeks. The process can take longer for a complex role or unfamiliar industry.
Onboarding and probation can happen together, but they have different purposes: onboarding helps you get started, while probation assesses how the employment is progressing. Acas makes this distinction in its guidance for Great Britain and says workers must be paid for hours worked from their first day, including induction time. Ask about any required sessions before your stated start date and how that time will be treated.
Example
A remote analyst receives a laptop before starting, meets a named colleague on day one and reviews a first assignment with their manager that week.
What to check
- Confirm equipment, access and the first-day schedule.
- Identify your manager and training contact.
- Ask about required training time and pay.