Feeling overwhelmed by the onboarding process? Here are some tips to deal with it, for employees and employers.

You may not have just been crowned as a new monarch... However starting a new job can be both exciting and overwhelming. For many employees, the onboarding process can feel like drinking from a fire hose, with an endless stream of new information, tasks, and responsibilities to juggle. Meanwhile, employers may struggle to balance the need for thorough training with the desire to get new hires up to speed quickly. However, by following a few best practices, both employees and employers can make the onboarding process smoother and more manageable.

For Employees:

1. Prioritise

As you navigate the onboarding process, it can be easy to feel like everything is urgent and important. However, try to prioritise your tasks and responsibilities, focusing on the most critical items first. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and ensure that you are making progress on the most important tasks.

2. Communicate

If you are struggling with the onboarding process or feeling overwhelmed, don't be afraid to speak up. Your manager or HR representative is there to support you and can help you manage your workload or provide additional resources to help you succeed.

3. Take breaks

It can be tempting to work long hours and power through the onboarding process, but taking breaks can help you stay focused and avoid burnout. Try to take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch, walk around, or simply take a few deep breaths.

For Employers:

1. Create a clear onboarding plan

A clear onboarding plan can help new hires understand what is expected of them and provide a roadmap for their first few weeks on the job. Make sure that the plan includes both formal training and informal opportunities to connect with colleagues and learn about the company culture.

2. Assign a mentor

Pairing new hires with a mentor or buddy can help them feel supported and provide an additional resource for questions or concerns. Make sure that the mentor is well-equipped to answer questions and provide guidance.

3. Provide regular feedback

Regular feedback can help new hires understand how they are progressing and identify areas where they need to improve. Make sure that feedback is constructive and specific, with actionable next steps.

Overall, the onboarding process can be challenging for both employees and employers. However, by following best practices like prioritising, communicating, and providing clear plans and support, both parties can navigate the process more effectively and set the stage for a successful transition to the new role.