In my last blog, I discussed some ideas on finding the “right” talent for your business with questions that get more pertinent information during the interview than the usual methods.

Now you’ve chosen the ideal person and you have only one chance to make a positive “First Impression”.

If their first day at work is less than warm and welcoming some of the younger employees may choose to leave– just as fast as they arrived. You’re likely rolling your eyeballs at that comment; but it is happening.

All employees want to feel valued right from the get-go and it really takes very little effort to engage your new talent from the start.

Here are some ideas that you may like to take into consideration:

1. Take a few minutes to introduce your new recruit to the team.It can be on an individual basis, or a brief meeting with all.  State the attributes of your new employee and how you see them fitting in with the team or business.

   Tell everyone what their new colleague will be doing within the department.

2. In addition to an introduction, take a photo in front of your logo (with their smartphone) so they can post their new job on social media. It will be good promo for them and you!
3. Give your newbie a swag bag containing items that they’ll need in their job. Company pens, pencils, note pads, post-its; a list of department staff with their positions and contact info and an employee handbook.
4. You can surprise them with a gift certificate to take the day off on their birthday, with pay (Millennials will LOVE that).
5. Have their favorite muffin and coffee drink delivered to them at the break.
6. Send them a “welcome” card that says how pleased you are they are part of the organization.
7. Have a cake, or muffins and hot beverages for the whole team to welcome the new employee.
8. Create a promissory note or appointment for the employee to meet with the CEO for a 15-minute chat.

These actions don’t need to take a lot of time, nor money, to impress the new employee and the rest of the team.

Introduce a “work buddy” for the first few days to guide the employee through the routine and layout of the organization.  Believe me, there is nothing worse than just saying, “welcome” and then leaving the recruit alone to fend for themselves.

Remember how awkward it was when you started a new position.  This is especially true for young people who still lack confidence and experience in the workplace.

Lastly, meet with them at the end of the day to see how things went, and to ask what they might need to make it better the next day.  Let them know they did well on their first day and that you’re glad they are part of the team.

You will have impressed them and they will be more than willing to look forward to working with your organization for the long term.

About the Author, JoAnne Marlow, B. Comm., B. Ed., MA
People Strategist Consultant

Through a diagnostic evaluation of your organizational culture, JoAnne will determine the core issue(s) that need to be addressed with various systems that she will help you implement into your business. Your results will be better employee retention, higher productivity, an engaged team, and a higher bottom line. As a best selling author, problem solver, and trainer, she has 20 years experience working with leaders and their teams, offers training workshops, keynotes, and seminars.

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Visit her website to see how JoAnne can assist with your team development: SystemsForEngagingTeams.com.