How Great Bosses Talk to New Employees

Knowing how to do a job is important, but it’s critical to approach a new job with the right mindset. Many bosses assume the conversations they have during the hiring interview process are sufficient. However, Inc. columnist Jeff Haden says they aren’t.

Here are four things that, according to Haden, great bosses communicate on an employee's first day to make sure that person gets off to a strong and focused start: 

• Thoroughly explain how the business creates value. What's more, explain how that specific employee’s role can help sustain or create a competitive advantage.

• Map out the employee’s internal and external customers. No job exists in a vacuum and it's important to understand the needs of all constituents. 

• Set immediate goals and alert them to expect fast feedback. Make sure every day includes a blend of training and accomplishment.   (Tweet it!)

• Reinforce the reasons why they were hired. Praise new hires for the skills and traits that caused them to get hired, and make them feel needed.

In short, new employees need to know not only what they will do, but also why they will do it.  

How does your organization orient new employees? Are these messages successfully conveyed? To join the conversation, click "comments" above.

If you would like to learn more about creating a habit around masterful communication, check out our online learning programs.  

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