Onboarding checklist — before they arrive
Make a plan — An onboarding procedure that addresses the needs of interim staff should include workplace safety, company policies and procedures, and guidelines for performance and accountability.
Create a supportive environment — Alert the receptionist when temporary workers will be arriving and make sure in advance that they have security access and a work station with a phone, necessary supplies and a computer with instructions for network access.
Tell your staff who’s coming — Make sure your full-time employees understand what it is that the temporary workers will do and, in turn, what guidance they will be expected to provide. Consider assigning a staff member to be a workplace buddy for informal support
Ongoing efforts
For more onboarding tips, consider this: Don’t stop after the first day. Onboarding should continue through the second week and beyond.
Include them in activities — Show your temporary workers they’re part of the team by including them in meetings and events when appropriate.
Praise their accomplishments — Temps benefit from a show of appreciation, too. Highlight how they are helping your group by taking on the duties they’re assigned.
Stay in touch — Check in regularly, with follow-up meetings to encourage them to ask questions and offer feedback.
When you provide this kind of guidance for temporary professionals, you can influence the outcomes for your team’s overall performance and your company’s reputation.
As Steinitz says, “An onboarding checklist can help you retain top talent and even pave the way for full-time hiring arrangements.”