Starting Fresh: How to Take the Reins of Your Onboarding Process, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article provides advice for new employees on how to effectively manage their onboarding process to set themselves up for long-term success. It outlines common pitfalls in haphazard onboarding that can lead over half of employees to leave within six months. However, the article argues employees can take control of their onboarding journey from day one through proactively engaging in relationship building, continuous skill development, and soliciting feedback. Specifically, it recommends Employees create a customized 90-day onboarding plan, prioritize networking, customize ongoing learning goals, and actively seek feedback to address weaknesses. The article maintains these steps will help employees acclimate to their new roles and organizations, build critical support systems, enhance their skills, and identify areas for growth to maximize their potential and impact throughout their onboarding period and beyond.