The Number One Hack For Building Positive Employment Relationships from Day One

Hiring someone new is a bit like starting a new friendship. There’s the excitement of a fresh start, the nervous energy of wanting to make a good impression, and the hope that this relationship will flourish. But, just like any friendship, the foundation you lay on Day One sets the tone for the future.

So, what’s the secret sauce to kick-starting positive employment relationships? Drumroll, please…

It’s all about clarity.

Clarity Is Key

Imagine arriving at a party and having no idea what the dress code is, where the drinks are, or who you’re supposed to talk to.

Awkward, right? The same goes for a new hire’s first day on the job. Clarity removes confusion, sets expectations, and creates a sense of security.

Here’s how you can inject clarity into every step of the onboarding process:

1. Provide a Roadmap

From the moment you offer someone the job, lay out exactly what happens next. A clear onboarding plan should include:

• Start date and time: Obvious? Sure. But often overlooked.

• First-day agenda: Let them know what to expect from the moment they walk in.

• Training schedule: Map out their first few weeks so they can see how they’ll grow into their role.

Pro tip: Share this information before their first day so they’re not left guessing.

2. Spell Out Expectations

Nothing kills morale faster than a game of “guess what I want from you.” Be upfront about:

• Key responsibilities: A detailed job description should be revisited and discussed during their first week.

• Performance expectations: What does success look like in their role? Spell it out.

• Company values: Help them understand how their role fits into the bigger picture.

3. Equip Them with Tools

Starting a new job without the right tools is like trying to build IKEA furniture without the instructions (or that weird little Allen key). Ensure they have:

• Access to systems and software: IT setup should be ready before they arrive.

• Key contacts: Introduce them to their team and assign a buddy for those early questions.

• A workspace: Whether it’s an office desk or a login to your virtual workspace, make it welcoming and functional.

4. Communicate Like You Mean It

Clarity thrives on communication, and first impressions matter. Get it right with:

• A warm welcome: A personal greeting (and maybe even some cake) can work wonders.

• Regular check-ins: Schedule time to see how they’re settling in during their first week, month, and quarter.

• Two-way feedback: Create a culture where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts from the get-go.

5. Celebrate Small Wins

Positive relationships are built on trust and appreciation. Highlight their contributions early, even if it’s something as simple as completing a training module. Recognition builds confidence and fosters loyalty.

Why It Matters

Starting off on the right foot isn’t just about avoiding awkwardness—it’s about:

• Reducing turnover: Employees who feel valued from Day One are more likely to stick around.

• Boosting productivity: Clear expectations and the right tools mean they can hit the ground running.

• Building trust: A transparent relationship fosters open communication and mutual respect.

Your Hack in Action

Clarity doesn’t require a big budget or complicated processes—just a bit of thoughtfulness and preparation. So, if you want to build positive employment relationships that last, start with a commitment to clarity.

If you want any help putting some clarity into your business, get in touch with Lucy! Lucy@humaneverything.co.uk