Onboarding Practices That Accelerate Employee Integration in Startups
Aug 25, 2025 | By Team SR

The world is full of fantastic candidates who are searching for jobs that are going to further level up their careers and enrich their professional experience; however, that doesn’t mean that every applicant is suitable for every company they apply to.
But that’s exactly why various onboarding practices are here. They have become a vital part of the hiring process, and something that will ensure your future employees are provided with all the right tools and knowledge to thrive.
Now, there are lots of businesses that may not take this seriously, which definitely isn’t a good thing because it’s going to encourage prospective talent to search for new job opportunities somewhere else.
If you’re looking to improve this aspect of your firm, then it’s time to pay close attention to the onboarding practices that are worth considering, which just might help you turn this whole process into a successful endeavor.
Preboarding Is A Good Idea
Preboarding normally encompasses different onboarding activities that are executed between the time workers sign a contract to their first day in your organization. Bear in mind that not all employees are fully relaxed and carefree when it’s time to start working for a new company.
Some of them can be extremely stressed out and anxious, and if you do not establish good communication with them before their first day, they may give up on your firm and consider joining another business.
On a more positive note, there are plenty of effective steps that you can take to show them just how much you appreciate them becoming part of your organization and, at the same time, get them energized about working for/with you. So, consider doing some of these things:
- Equip them with a welcome kit – This usually includes things such as computers, branded pens, notebooks, mugs, or anything else that represents your company.
- A what-to-expect email is always an amazing idea because it will slowly introduce your workforce to a typical workday in your firm and the tools your workers normally utilize.
- Introduce them to the members of your team – This refers to their colleagues, reporting managers, and other crucial members. The first week is perfect for these purposes.
- Host an event during which they’ll get an opportunity to get to know you better, along with other people who aren’t part of your team.
Don’t Forget To Finish All The Paperwork
It’s always recommended to give your new workers a head start on numerous administrative tasks, such as finishing HR paperwork, creating a company email address, and many other things that are going to simplify their first day on the job. Your goal shouldn’t be only to streamline employee onboarding, but also to stimulate them to work on certain paperwork before they begin working. This refers to the following:
- Direct deposit forms
- Tax forms
- Employee handbook acknowledgement forms
- Non-compete agreements
If they are able to, they should complete all these forms on their computer to avoid wasting their time printing them and then filling them out.
Organize Their Workspace Before The First Day
Preparing and setting up all the necessary equipment and tools for the new employees takes a lot of time. Not to mention the fact that if you do not do this in a timely manner, then you’ll be forced to postpone their training and many other things that are essential for their fresh start and general adjustment.
That’s precisely why it’s essential to prepare and organize their workspace on time, and if you’re willing to, you can also ask them if they have a particular preference in terms of equipment and tools they usually use, just to show them how much you value their needs and preferences.
If possible, you should consider giving them different options when it comes to this, to make them feel even more comfortable at your company. There’s no need to remind you how crucial it is to provide them with the equipment that’s fully functional; otherwise, they won’t be able to properly get started.
Aside from making their workspace neat and tidy, as previously suggested, it wouldn’t hurt to add some lovely mugs and office supplies to make them feel appreciated right off the bat.
They Need To Have Access To All The Relevant Information
Although to many of you, this may seem like the most logical thing to do, frequently, HR forgets to do it. Of course, they do not do it on purpose, but at times, their minds get caught up in all the paperwork that needs to be completed, and they forget to remind themselves that they are the ones who know where every piece of essential information is stored.
That’s why you should be the one who’s going to take care of this. It would be good to add all the important things into the welcome package (with all the branded goodies) that was mentioned above. You should include information, like:
- Name and title of their future colleagues
- Company handbook and HR policies
- Working locations and offices
Talk To Other Members Of Your Team
Yes, it’s great that you know all about the brand-new employee; however, if the other members of your team aren’t notified about them, then you’re going to make things pretty awkward. That person may not feel welcome and wanted enough.
Therefore, the more people know, the better. Why does this matter so much? Well, that’s because when they are informed about the future colleague, they’ll have enough time to prepare all the necessities that will make their workspace welcome and ready for a fresh start.
Assign A Buddy
When a new employee is paired with someone they’ll be seeing regularly, then they’ll feel as if they have somebody they can turn to whenever they want to ask some questions or address some concerns. Make sure to pick a person who will be thrilled about this role.
Employee onboarding is not always smooth sailing. In fact, it can often be pretty challenging because it involves lots of steps that need to be taken if you want everything to be done effectively and seamlessly.