Of course, they receive formal training once they join the company, but such relaxed discussions help new employees to gain a strong, base-level understanding of what is expected of them.
As the employees’ start date approaches, it is always advisable for management and team members to schedule formal introductory video meetings in diaries.
The benefits of this are two-fold. Firstly, it offers the new starter a comprehensive introduction to the business and their role. Secondly, it allows them to ask any questions that may have arisen during their informal virtual coffees with their colleagues.
Setting up the office space
A further important preparation for new members of staff is to ensure they have the appropriate equipment to successfully fulfil their role.
A recent YouGov study revealed that over two fifths (41 per cent) of homeworkers do not have an appropriate working environment.
What is more, a similar number (39 per cent) have resorted to impractical and uncomfortable working arrangements, such as setting up a workstation on beds or sofas.
Such arrangements could have a negative impact on employee well-being and morale. Consequently, it would be wise for employers to take pre-emptive action; conduct a “virtual audit” to confirm new members of staff are able to work comfortably at home, and then provide them with the IT hardware and software needed to perform their job.
For example, it could be worth introducing a home working stipend: a budget to help new members of staff purchase everything they need to work remotely. This fund could allow staff to buy anything from a new laptop stand to an office chair.
Not only does such funding mean staff can work comfortably and productively from home, it also sends a positive message that their wants and needs are valued.
The virtual day-to-day
Regardless of whether an employee has worked at a company for five years, or five days, clear communication between management and team mates is absolutely vital.
Without the daily interaction of office life, it can be very easy for members of staff to become absorbed in their own tasks. This can lead to miscommunication (or no communication) between teams, in turn resulting in projects being disrupted or delayed.
Indeed, research conducted by Upios revealed that almost half (47 per cent) of remote workers felt communication difficulties were having a negative impact on their productivity. A further 45 per cent stated that they missed being able to share ideas and feedback with their co-workers.
New starters can find this issue particularly problematic as, for the first few weeks of their new job, they are busy getting to grips with new products and processes.
