Documents Employees Should Receive Their First Week

15 - July 2019

Documents Employees Should Receive Their First Week

1.A copy of the offer letter and/or employment contract.

Even if an offer letter was previously sent, managers should affix another copy to the employee’s file.

2.Onboarding checklist.

By giving a new employee an outline of how they will be spending their first few weeks on the job, managers not only provide a plan of action, but also demonstrate to the employee that their employment is valued.

3.Payroll information including direct deposit forms.

People want to know when and how they will be salaried.

4.Information about technology systems as well as instructions on setting up computer and voicemail passwords.

Though it may sound easy, many companies overlook the management of small details – like the capability to log in to a computer – that can confuse new workers.

5.A copy of your organizations strategic plan and mission statement.

Initiate new employees into the company vision and share with them how their contributions fit into the deal. Any other pertinent material (annual reports, marketing materials) that give information about your company and corporate culture may also be helpful. An outline of the company structure may also be productive to new employees, illustrating how the various departments relate and interact.

6.Copy of the employee handbook.

Employers should also be sure that the employee signs a form acknowledging receipt and abidance of the management and that the form is placed in the employee file.

7.Security and parking information as well as any applicable forms and/or documents.

Be certain that new employees have filled out all paperwork and signed all mandatory documents pertaining to security and parking.

8.Emergency contact information for managers.

Emergencies are, by nature, unexpected. New employees should be given after-hours contact instruction for the appropriate managers and a copy of any emergency communication plans.

9.Copy of the company disaster readiness plan.

Surely, everyone hopes that the disaster plan never has to be implemented, but all new hires should receive a copy of the plan and should understand their role should not create a disaster arise.

10.Updated job description and performance plan.

New employees should have a clear idea of what their position brings about and how success will be measured. If you have expectations as to what they should conclude in the first few weeks or months of their employment put it in writing. Open communication and clearly articulated expectations can indicate the difference between a successful new employee transition and a poor outcome.