New Employee Onboarding: Boost New Hire Engagement and Retention

Starting a new job can feel overwhelming—like “drinking from a fire hose.” With so many new processes, people, and tasks to learn, it’s no wonder that a Forbes article found “53% of workers say starting a new job is scarier than a trip to the dentist, holding a spider or snake and skydiving.” Without the right support, new hires might struggle to find their footing, which makes it harder for them to feel confident and contribute.

A One-Stop Shop for New Hires

Creating a dedicated new employee portal can make a world of difference. Think of it as a central, go-to resource where new hires can access all the important information they need to feel prepared and connected from day one. By mixing up written documents with engaging videos, you can provide a warm welcome while keeping things moving.

Features: Building a Resource-Rich New Employee Portal

1. Welcoming Video Messages

Start things off right with a welcome video from the CEO or HR lead. A friendly message from leadership lets new hires know they’re appreciated and valued. Add short video intros from team members, too—where they share their roles, a bit about their background, and even a fun fact or two. These introductions help put faces to names and create a more personal connection from day one.

2. How-To Videos for Basic Tasks

Brightcove found that 73% of employees would rather watch a one-minute video rather than read an email. Consider using videos to address employees' common questions, like: “How do I set up my email signature?” Short, instructional videos can walk new hires through these basics, from ordering business cards to navigating their new tech. These videos save time, answer common questions, and give new hires a sense of accomplishment as they tackle the setup.

3. Virtual Office Tours & Local Guides

A virtual tour of the office can help new hires get oriented with their workspace. Cover areas like meeting rooms, break zones, and other shared spaces. If you have multiple locations or remote workers, consider adding guides with local highlights—like nearby lunch spots, transportation options, and other community resources. This is especially helpful for those who may be relocating.

4. Essential Documents, All in One Place

Make key documents easy to find by putting everything in one section. Employee handbooks, HR policies, benefits info, and compliance forms are a few of the essentials. By centralizing these, you’re giving new hires a single source for all the info they need, without making them dig through their inbox.

5. Interactive Onboarding Checklists and Guides:

Nothing helps more than a clear roadmap. Add an interactive checklist to your portal with tasks for the first few weeks. This might include training materials, team meetings, or project milestones. A task list can give new hires a boost of confidence as they check things off and see their progress.

6. Ongoing Learning and Growth Resources:

Give new hires access to resources that support their growth. Training videos, skill-building modules, and company workshops can help them build their confidence and find ways to contribute even faster. Plus, they’ll appreciate having these resources handy whenever they’re ready to dive in.

7. Connecting with Company Culture:

Let new hires get a feel for the company’s vibe. Share event calendars, internal groups, and photos from recent gatherings. Creating a “Meet the Team” gallery or spotlighting different social events helps build a sense of belonging and gives them a glimpse of life beyond work.

Setting Your Team Up for Success

Investing in a well-designed, video-rich portal shows new employees that you’re serious about supporting their success from day one. When new hires feel welcomed and prepared, they’re more likely to dive into their role with confidence and start contributing faster. This approach not only smooths the transition for new hires but also sets the foundation for higher engagement, productivity, and satisfaction in the long run.

With the right portal, you’re building a resource that supports your employees beyond just their first day. From FAQs and ongoing learning to staying connected with their team, a new hire portal reinforces your company’s commitment to its people—creating a stronger, more connected workplace for everyone.