You’ve invested time, energy, and money into finding the right candidate. You’ve screened resumes, conducted interviews, and negotiated the offer.
But what happens after they say yes? 

For many businesses, this is where things go quiet—and where great talent starts to slip away. 

Onboarding isn’t just a “nice to have.” It’s a critical business function that directly impacts employee performance, retention, and your bottom line. 

First Impressions Matter—Even After the Interview 

Studies show that nearly 30% of employees leave within the first 90 days if the onboarding experience is poor. That’s not just a retention issue—it’s a reputation risk. 

When new team members feel supported, welcomed, and prepared, they’re more likely to: 

• Settle into their role faster 

• Engage with your company culture 

• Stay long-term and perform at a higher level 

A strong onboarding experience tells your new hire:
“We’re ready for you—and we’re invested in your success.” 

Common Onboarding Pitfalls to Avoid 

1. No Clear Plan
   Without structure, new hires can feel lost. Day one shouldn’t be spent wondering what to do or who to speak to. 
2. Lack of Communication
   Silence after contract signing is a red flag. Staying in touch between acceptance and start date helps reduce no-shows and builds anticipation. 
3. Poor Role Clarity
   If expectations aren’t clearly defined, even the best new hires can flounder. A good onboarding process starts with a clear job description and measurable goals. 
4. Forgetting the Human Side
   New people are nervous. Introduce them properly. Provide a welcome email, a friendly buddy, or even a coffee catch-up with their team. 

What a Great Onboarding Experience Includes 

✅ A Pre-Start Welcome Pack
Include company info, key contacts, what to expect on day one, and any paperwork. Bonus points for a personalised welcome message from leadership. 

✅ Structured First Week
Map out training, meetings, systems access, and regular check-ins. Make sure they’re not left wondering where to sit or who to ask for help. 

✅ Set Expectations Early
Outline KPIs, goals, and review timelines clearly. When people know what’s expected, they’re more confident and productive. 

✅ Culture and Connection
Invite them to lunch. Walk them through values, not just policies. Encourage team interaction early—it makes all the difference. 

Onboarding Is Retention 

Recruitment doesn’t end when the contract is signed—it ends when your new hire is thriving in their role. 

Strong onboarding leads to: 

• Better employee engagement 

• Faster productivity 

• Reduced turnover 

• A stronger employer brand 

And let’s not forget: onboarding also sets the tone for performance, culture, and accountability from day one.