Onboarding 101: How to Make a Great First Impression

Onboarding 101: How to Make a Great First Impression  

We know onboarding is essential to start any new employee off on the right note, but it also sets the tone for what your newest team members can expect from your school or district. Making a good first impression when a new teacher starts at a school is important for fostering a positive and welcoming environment. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth onboarding process, and how Helios Ed can help!  

Warm Welcome

Ensure that the new teachers and staff receive a warm welcome on their first day. Greet them at the entrance and introduce them to key staff members. Consider having a welcome sign or a small welcome package waiting for them in their new workspace. 

Clear Onboarding Process

Develop a well-structured onboarding process that covers essential information such as school policies, procedures, and resources. Assign a mentor or buddy to help the new teacher navigate the initial days and answer any questions they may have. Dr. Pimienta of TEACH Public Schools shared that, “Helios onboarding makes a great first impression on the new employee.”  

Provide Necessary Resources

Ensure that the new teacher has all the necessary resources, including teaching materials, textbooks, and access to any digital platforms used by the school. 

Provide them with a comprehensive handbook that outlines school policies and expectations. 

Introduce School Culture 

Schedule meetings with key personnel, including administrators, department heads, and fellow teachers, to introduce the new teacher to the school’s culture and community. Encourage existing staff to make an effort to introduce themselves and offer support. 

Set Up a Welcome Event 

Organize a welcome event or luncheon where the new teacher can meet and interact with other staff members in a more informal setting. This can help build a sense of camaraderie and make the new teacher feel like a valued member of the team. Tincup (2019) says there is a great benefit in making onboarding a collaborative endeavor. This provides additional opportunities for a new employee to make connections throughout the school or district. 

Provide Training Opportunities 

Offer training sessions or workshops that focus on the specific teaching methods, technology, or curriculum used in the school. Ensure the new teacher has access to professional development opportunities to enhance their skills.  

Open Lines of Communication 

Establish open lines of communication, making it clear that the new teacher can approach HR or other relevant staff with any questions or concerns. Schedule regular check-ins during the first few weeks to address any issues or provide additional support. 

Collect Feedback 

Periodically check in with the new teacher to gather feedback on their onboarding experience and address any concerns promptly. Use this feedback to continually improve the onboarding process for future hires. Heubeck (2023) shares there is a huge benefit in collecting feedback from newly hired employees after they have been hired as well.  

By focusing on a comprehensive and collaborative onboarding process, you can help new teachers and staff members know they are valued and supported. This sets the stage for a successful and positive experience for all involved.  

What was the most helpful tip you have used when onboarding a new team member?