Preboarding refers to the activities that take place between the signing of an employment contract and the employee’s first day at work. A well-structured preboarding process ensures that the new employee feels welcomed and well-prepared for their role, helping to maintain the motivation generated during the hiring process.
Many organisations use preboarding to introduce the company’s culture, values and essential information even before the employee’s first day. Administrative tasks, such as completing personal information, setting up IT access and preparing practical arrangements, can also be handled during this phase, ensuring the employee is prepared for an easier start.
An effective preboarding process may include welcome emails, team introductions via video or virtual meetings and access to a digital learning platform where the employee can familiarise themselves with the company at their own pace.
By integrating preboarding into the overall onboarding process, new employees are better prepared, highly motivated, and equipped with a foundation to ask relevant questions during their first days.