Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1505694
68 PCB007 MAGAZINE I AUGUST 2023 roughout the internship, it was hard to build those foundational work relationships because of what happened that first day. I had been unable to connect with my coworkers, so it was difficult to want to speak up in meetings, and even more so when my opinion needed to be heard. On new projects, I felt like I was wasting the time of others. I felt useless and so stupid! When I asked a question, the responses were short and quick, which additionally made my input on projects feel useless. While I wish I hadn't had that experience, I know it taught me a lot, including that others may be having similar negative experiences that can be stumbling blocks to their success on a new team. So, how can you help your new employee have a positive onboarding experience? 1. Introductions. Make this happen on the first day in the first hour, to their team and oth- ers around the office. 2. Weekly one-on-one meetings. Check in on your new hire to see how they are feeling about their job. What questions do they have? By allowing them time to ask questions, you open the conversation for more input and improvement. Letting them ask questions even allows for learning. As a new hire, I absolutely do not know everything—especially things like acronyms that everyone around me is using— but with the opportunity to meet with my man- ager and ask questions during our one-on-one, I'm able to gain the tools and expertise neces- sary to bring value to my company. 3. Acclimation. Help new employees become familiar with the company and surrounding community. is can be through suggestions of places to eat, things to do, or even sports leagues they can join. rowing a team lunch or happy hour for your new employee helps them feel more comfortable with their team. Happy hours can also help a new employee to learn about new restaurants in the area. 4. Employee community volunteer days. ese help an employee reach out to their (new) community and help those in need. Community volunteering helps the new employee know that no matter how small their impact is in the moment, they are truly making a difference in their new community. is leads to higher purpose and value in the company. 5. Resource groups. Give the employee an opportunity to join employee resource groups or clubs associated with the company. is helps them feel more connected to the com- pany's purpose, values, and vision. It's also an opportunity to get to know their coworkers and help them feel like they've found a new home. Although not part of the specific onboard- ing experience, I believe in rotational pro- grams, especially for new hires coming straight out of school. A rotational program allows the new employee to work in mul- tiple areas within the company, and espe- cially to find new opportunities where they might thrive. It opens doors to areas of exper- tise where they might be a better fit, allowing for higher productivity and job satisfaction. Rotational programs are beneficial for both employees and their employer. ey allow employees to attain valuable skills that they can bring back to their original team, again increasing productivity and efficiency. Integrating even one of these practices can go a long way in helping your new hire feel ful- filled and excited about being on your team. I'm not saying that moving to a new state and new job is easy for anyone but knowing that my employer wants me to feel "at home" while I'm working has made all the difference. PCB007 Hannah Nelson is a validation engineer at Texas Instruments and in her third year of IPC's Emerging Engineer Program. She is a former IPC Student Board Member. To read past columns, click here.