Onboarding remote employees can be challenging, but the goals remain the same as if they were in the office. We suggest introducing communication channels, creating a sense of camaraderie, and providing role clarity as early as possible. Online onboarding software is also a great way to deliver essential training to new hires that they can complete from virtually anywhere.

The onboarding process includes four main phases:

1. Forming: This provides company knowledge, standard operating procedures, and basic job training.
2. Storming: This includes the first few months of work where new hires are learning the ins and outs of their specific roles.
3. Norming: Employees move beyond learning the basics.
4. Performing: New hires are fully ramped and adding value to the team.

Preboarding is the period before a new hire’s first day on the job. This is a great time to send them essential paperwork, helpful tips like what their first day will look like, and other essential information they need to know.