With the majority of professionals currently and indefinitely working from home, we are all faced with a challenging period of adjustment. Hiring for critical roles simply cannot stop because of the new remote working arrangements. Organisations need to leverage technology, make changes to their business practices and get creative so they can carry on with recruitment and onboarding effectively.
Virtual interviews
Whilst the coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on the third sector with charities announcing redundancies, there has still been the requirement to recruit business critical roles. The vast majority of charities that have pressed ahead have adapted and replaced face to face interviews with video interviews using video conferencing apps out there such as Skype, Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
Onboarding
Onboarding is the process of introducing a new employee into an organisation and familiarising them with the people, processes and services of the charity. Getting onboarding right is critical as it helps new employees integrate with an organisation. Although onboarding virtually is a little more challenging, if done correctly, it should all go off without a hitch.
Go digital
Printing and posting signed contracts to employees, can be time consuming and challenging if everyone is working remotely. An alternative and much faster option is to use an e-signature tool such as DocuSign, signNow or HelloSign.
Make sure new employees have the right tech
To enable any employee to hit the ground running it’s important that they receive all the necessary information and resources. Laptops and any other necessary devices should be delivered before their scheduled start date. IT departments also need to make sure that new starters have the work-related software, team conferencing apps, necessary passwords and a secure Wi-Fi connection.
Set clear expectations with new employees
Ensure employees have been set clear and realistic objectives, so they can focus on achieving them. Expectations that should be discussed include the company’s values, the team’s objectives and key responsibilities. Checklists are a great way to set expectations and detailed procedure notes are great to help them complete their first week, month, and so on.
Communicate as often as possible
Remote working is new for many people and can also be isolating so be sure to check in throughout the onboarding process to make sure things run smoothly. Make sure you contact them and introduce them to the team and organisation. It is vital that a new starter feels comfortable and welcome. Introducing the new staff member to their teammates – ideally with a face-to-face video chat, perhaps set up a WhatsApp group with their immediate team. Providing a staff list or organogram so they know who does what is also useful.
Keep communication lines open
Check in with new employees on a regular basis. New employees naturally might feel anxious their role and their new working arrangements. Scheduling daily calls or regular video chats is a great way showing employees you value and care for them. Pairing a newly onboarded staff member with a mentor can also be advantageous. It gives new employees someone to contact for questions and also helps mentors develop confidence and pride in their jobs.
Need help navigating remote recruitment and onboarding?
Connect with Aquilas for expert support in finding and successfully integrating top fundraising talent, no matter where you or they are based. Email kieran@aquilas.co.uk or call 0775 125 0774. You can also browse our latest charity job vacancies to find your next opportunity.
