Workforce Guides

Getting new employees quickly up to speed and contributing is important for managers no matter their industry. Onboarding recent graduates can be even more difficult when you consider these workers are typically beginning their professional lives. In some cases, they simply aren’t used to putting in a full day’s work.

In short, when managing employees fresh out of school, you need to get things right. Some studies even report a turnover rate as high as 50 percent for recent grads. For an idea on what to avoid, here are a few mistakes managers sometimes make with recent graduates.

Not letting Graduates develop Confidence

Fresh graduates need an opportunity to develop their own self-confidence. During their first few weeks while being trained, give them the chance to get their feet wet on a few smaller projects. This strategy serves two purposes: they become more familiar with your company’s systems and procedures while also being able to contribute to your operations.

It is important they develop a positive attitude within the first few weeks on the job. Getting them contributing as quickly as possible helps accomplish this.

Ensure the New Hire understands your Company’s Goals and Vision

Some managers simply throw a recent graduate straight into the deep without first making sure they have a set of tangible goals to work towards. This applies to personal goals as well as the larger ambitions of the company as a whole. Don’t assume new employees will pick up your organization’s culture and vision by osmosis — make sure your onboarding package covers this material.

The Lack of a Formal Training Program hampers Employee Development

Obviously, a training program is a must for businesses hoping to develop their employees’ true potential. This rule applies to your entire staff, not just new hires that may or may not be recent graduates. However, the failure to provide training to those employees first entering the workforce is a mistake you and your organization can’t afford to make.

When you consider the higher turnover rate of new graduates in the workforce, combined with the costs of the hiring process, your company’s bottom line depends on the well-considered management of those beginning their professional lives. Ensure they start their careers with clearly-defined goals, proper training, and meaningful project work.

If you need additional insights on building a productive team at your office, talk to the experts at PrideStaff Houston. As one of the top general staffing agencies in Texas, we offer great candidates able to contribute to your organization’s success. Meet with us at your earliest convenience.