Onboarding can seem a bit like a blind date — full of potential, but if done wrong, it can go south very quickly. For too long, the process has been uninspiring, leaving new hires to get on with their new job, but wondering if they’ve made the right choice. The more forward-thinking businesses are tackling this head-on, and with generative AI, onboarding is undergoing a much-needed transformation, making the experience not just effective but more personal and genuinely engaging.
Current Onboarding Practices
Let’s be honest: many onboarding experiences are just plain dull. According to a recent Gallup survey, only 12% of employees feel their organisation does a great job at onboarding. That leaves a staggering 88% who might already be considering their exit strategy before they’ve even settled in. Not ideal. And for senior roles, it’s even more alarming—close to half might leave within the first 18 months, according to a report by HR consultancy - SHRM. Clearly, something needs to change, and fast.
The Generative AI Gamechanger
Onboarding videos don't need to be dull - they can be instrumental in building a connection with new hires from day one. It’s not just about delivering information; it’s about engagement, personalisation, and creating a memorable journey for new employees.
Speaking Their Language: With today’s global workforce, inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. Multilingual AI avatars can deliver content in any language, ensuring every employee feels acknowledged and valued from day one.
Personalised Onboarding: Forget the boring, one-size-fits-all instructional videos. AI-driven digital human avatars can transform onboarding into a personalised experience incorporating personalised guidance and mentorship.
Cost-Effective Solutions: Traditional video production can be costly and slow. AI-driven production slashes costs and speeds up the process, ensuring your content is always fresh and relevant.
Beyond Day One: Onboarding as a Launchpad
Onboarding shouldn’t end after the first week. It should be the beginning of a continuous growth journey. Generative AI can create micro-learning modules tailored to each employee’s learning style and pace, turning ongoing development into a seamless, integrated experience. Think of it as having a personal career coach guiding you every step of the way.
Tackling the Big Challenges
Using generative AI in onboarding isn’t just about creating flashy videos—it’s about solving real-world problems that impact retention, culture, and scalability.
Reducing Attrition: An engaging and supportive onboarding experience encourages new hires to stick around longer, reducing turnover.
Cultural Integration: Personalised content that highlights your company’s unique culture helps new hires feel like they truly belong, from day one.
Scalability: As your company grows, so do your onboarding needs. AI-driven solutions can scale seamlessly, adapting to your expanding workforce.
Actionable Insights
Here’s how to take your onboarding to the next level:
Embrace Personalisation: Ditch the generic onboarding materials. Use generative AI to create tailored content that resonates with each new hire on a personal level.
Think Global: Develop multilingual onboarding content to cater to your diverse workforce, making sure everyone feels included and valued.
Make It Interactive: Utilise AI avatars to provide real-time feedback and personalized support, turning onboarding into an interactive, engaging experience.
Invest in Continuous Learning: Implement micro-learning modules that ensure ongoing employee development and engagement, well beyond their first day.
The First-Day Experience: Setting the Stage
Day one is your first chance to make a lasting impression. This is when expectations are set, and objectives are introduced. Make sure your new hires know exactly what their roles entail and who they’ll be working with. Social interaction is also key—whether it’s a team lunch or a quick coffee with a colleague, these moments help new employees feel welcomed and valued.
Continuous Check-Ins: The Secret to Retention
Regular check-ins are essential, not just for ensuring that your new hires are settling in but for tweaking the onboarding process itself. A one-month check-in, followed by another at three months, and perhaps a final one at six months, can make all the difference. This helps you catch any issues before they become problems and ensures that your new employees are on the right track.
The Importance of Mentorship
Assigning a mentor or buddy can significantly enhance a new hire’s integration into the company. According to a study by BambooHR, 56% of respondents said that having a buddy at work was crucial when getting started. Mentorship helps new employees navigate the company culture, understand their role better, and feel more connected to their team.
Beyond the First Year: The Transition to Retention
The end of the first year is when traditional onboarding should transition into a focus on continuous development and retention. This is the perfect time to discuss career growth, set new goals, and ensure that your employees have a clear path forward within the company. It’s also an ideal moment to discuss compensation and ensure that your new hires feel valued and appreciated.
The Business Case for Onboarding with AI
Generative AI doesn’t just make onboarding more engaging—it makes it more effective. Companies that invest in AI-driven onboarding solutions can expect to see lower turnover rates, higher employee satisfaction, and better overall performance. It’s a win-win for both the company and its employees.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Onboarding
At its core, onboarding is about making new employees feel like they’ve made the right choice. It’s about giving them the tools they need to succeed and making them feel like they’re a valuable part of the team. Generative AI is transforming this process, making it more personalized, interactive, and effective than ever before.
The future of onboarding is here, and it’s powered by AI. Don’t get left behind—embrace this technology and revolutionise the way you bring new talent into your organisation.
Key Stats and Facts
12%: Percentage of employees who feel their organisation does a great job onboarding. (Gallup)
50%: Potential turnover rate within the first 18 months for senior roles. (SHRM)
56%: New hires who said having a buddy or mentor was crucial when starting a new job.
Multilingual AI: Capable of delivering onboarding content in any language, ensuring inclusivity.
Cost Reduction: AI-driven solutions can significantly cut costs compared to traditional video production methods.
Key Benefits of Generative AI in Onboarding Process
Personalised and Engaging Content
Real-Time Interaction and Feedback
Scalable and Cost-Effective Solutions
Embrace the future of onboarding with AI—where your company can create content as unique and dynamic as its employees.
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