How long should the onboarding process take?

Many onboarding processes are rushed into a few weeks, leaving new hires feeling lost and unprepared. A rushed onboarding process can lead to high rates of employee turnover, increasing costs for companies.

However, a structured and long-term onboarding may help new hires gain confidence while integrating into company culture, and becoming productive team members.

There are many debates about how long the entire process should take. Some recommend a couple months, and others a full year. Let’s explore why creating a longer onboarding process is beneficial to both new hires and organizations.

This blog looks at what an ineffective onboarding process looks like, the recommended duration for a strong onboarding, and the benefits of a long(er) onboarding process.

‍

What happens if the onboarding process is too short?

Unfortunately for new hires, most onboarding experiences last (shorter than) a month. Research shows that such short onboarding negatively impacts employee retention and makes employees unsettled within their role. 

A too-short onboarding process can overwhelm, stress, and alienate employees from their new work environment. According to a survey by BambooHR, 23% of workers even cry from disappointment during their first week.

Not only is this problematic for new hires, but also for HR teams. The first three months (90 days) are when employees are at the highest risk of early turnover. According to the 2022 Job Seeker Nation Report, 30% of employees leave during this period of time.

In summary, a short onboarding process is bad for both the employee and the company. So how long should it be?

‍

How long should the onboarding process take?

A good onboarding process allows an employee to fully understand their new role and company. Throughout the process, they should feel welcomed and informed enough to be productive and effective in their new workplace. And don't forget the preboarding period to engage employees even before their first day.

The general rule of thumb is between 3 to 6 months. However, extending the onboarding process to a full year can “positively impact and increase employee retention and engagement” (BambooHR)

Woah, a full year sounds like a long time! It is, but it’s worth it. And keep in mind that depending on the context, a full year of onboarding may not be necessary. 

So, what are things to consider when determining the ideal length for your onboarding process?

‍

Factors that influence the length of an onboarding process

Everyone has unique needs and experiences, which is why personalising the onboarding process to fit your new hire is crucial. Depending on the role, company, and working conditions, the ideal onboarding length will vary. 

Here are some things to consider:

1. Job role & expectations: The more complicated the role, the more time is spent on training to develop the needed knowledge and skills
   
   
2. Remote vs In-person: Onboarding remote workers often takes longer – for example, because you can’t just walk over to their desk for a quick check-in. This can also make it harder to track progress (though an onboarding app can help here). Read more in our article: What is an onboarding app? Your essential guide
   
   
3. Technology: Familiarising an employee with the company’s software and systems can take longer depending on the complexity of it
   
   
4. Company size: A larger company may involve multiple departments (HR, IT, Marketing, etc.), which can take longer for an employee to get to know
   
   
5. Employee experience level: Employees with little-to-no prior experience within the field will need more time to get up to speed and contribute productively

‍

Let’s explore some benefits of extending the onboarding process.

‍

Benefits of a long(er) onboarding process

Extending an onboarding process throughout a new employee’s first year benefits everyone. Here’s how:

1. Stronger company integration: Employees have the time to fully understand company culture, policies, procedures, and technology
   
   
2. Better employee retention: Giving a good start significantly increases an employee’s willingness to stay at a company (reducing turnover)
   
   
3. Better financial performance: Reducing turnover rates saves a lot of money (and time) spent on replacing employees
   
   
4. Increased productivity: Gradually integrating new employees creates a positive work environment, helping them become more productive
   
   
5. Improved feelings of job satisfaction: Employees feel more valued and supported at work, which helps lower their stress levels
   
   
6. Enhanced teamwork: Better opportunities to collaborate with colleagues and build relationships
   ‍‍
7. Continuous feedback & improvements: Having regular check-ins helps grow an employee by reflecting on strengths and room for improvements

So, now we know why a longer onboarding process is better for new employees, and the different factors that can influence its ideal length. But how can we put this into practice?

[.callout-small] Read more in our article: Onboarding New Employees: The definitive guide to welcoming new hires [.callout-small]

‍

Get started with Appical

Appical is a digital onboarding platform that warmly welcomes new employees before their official first day at a new job. We offer various plans that take care of every transition in the employee journey. This includes Preboarding, Onboarding, Reboarding and Offboarding. Check out all our services on our homepage!

Wondering how to get your onboarding started? Try using our 30-60-90 day plan to structure the first 3 months! It’s great for setting clear goals and objectives to give new hires a sense of direction. The plan can be adapted and personalised to the specific needs of any employee.

Appical has other useful resources to guide you throughout your onboarding. This includes blogs, E-books, and newsletters discussing any onboarding-related topic you can think of! Browse through some of our blogs here.

‍

Wrapping up

Never forget, starting your employees off with a great onboarding experience will help guide them through a positive employee lifecycle. It’s important to take the time to think about what each employee needs for a successful start. 

We highly advise you to plan a thoughtful and detailed onboarding process, taking all the time your new employee may need. Although a longer (time) investment, it will pay off by helping your employees feel more comfortable and productive in the workplace. This means better results for your company!

Consider using different onboarding tools to achieve this. Whether it’s a well-thought preboarding or 30-60-90 day plan, Appical is here to support you!