My Virtual Onboarding Experience During the Pandemic at Prodapt

My Virtual Onboarding Experience During the Pandemic at Prodapt

Whether it's your first job or not, starting a new role can be overwhelming even at the best of times. But when it happens during a global pandemic, the task may seem more challenging and uncertain. Being a HR professional, for me human factor is extremely important in the recruitment, onboarding, and training process. However, my recent virtual onboarding experience changed my outlook about it.

As I had interviewed for the role much before the pandemic hit us, I was keen about joining the office in person on my first day. However, the corona saga started and, I had to settle for a work-from-home welcome.

Though I was extremely excited about my new role as the Director of Learning & Development, I also had a host of inhibitions at the back of my mind. Will my new team accept me socially? Will my bosses be supportive in helping me start? How can I build rapport with my stakeholders in a remote working scenario? To my surprise, the HR team at Prodapt ensured that I had a smooth and well-planned onboarding experience. One year down, I can proudly say that 'I am part of the big Prodapt family" and I owe it to my team and fellow Prodaptians with whom I crossed paths in this tenure.

Setting up my workstation

My laptop (and the other necessary hardware) was delivered to me over the weekend before I could kick-start on the following Monday! And I must say I was impressed with this above and beyond task gesture.

Onboarding

I spent the first day completing the onboarding formalities. With so many tasks to complete, I preferred to finish the documentation on the same day. The onboarding team was systematic and ensured I received the necessary help.

Meeting the team

I was particularly excited about my virtual connection with my manager and a formal introduction to my team. Later in the day, I received a cordial welcome by my team. I liked the fact that from day one I was invited and encouraged to virtually socialize with my broader team. During the first weeks, my team made a conscious effort to build communication lines, which was very helpful in shedding my initial inhibitions.

Baptized as a Prodaption

My virtual induction began from day two, systematically spread over the next eight days ensuring there is no information overload. As a result, I could proceed at my own pace. With so much to explore about the company, its history, values, purpose etc., I found each module insightful.

The e-induction was well-designed as it rightfully served its purpose of creating a sense of belonging and assuring that I have joined the right place. The “How-To" videos were particularly useful for navigating the internal systems without any challenge - applying for a leave, my benefits, insurance coverage etc. Thanks to the self-help modules, I could resolve my generic queries without asking for help. At the end of the 8th day, we had an instructor led ‘Becoming A Prodaptian' aka BAP session for about 80+ new joiners. I thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the fellow newcomers and was finally baptized as a Prodaption!

Welcoming a new culture

Any job transition can be challenging as it disrupts one’s natural rhythm. For people who are very comfortable with the traditional work setup, physical interaction and training, the thought of virtual onboarding may seem challenging. It’s difficult to understand an organisation's culture without face-to-face contact. But remote work is the norm now and we need to adapt accordingly. Connect with as many people as possible, ask questions even if it seems trivial, and utilize the available resources!

Thanks, team Prodapt, for making every new joiner’s journey smooth and welcoming with the many online initiatives and activities.