Virtual Onboarding
6 elearning modules to include in your virtual onboarding
Many business owners put off hiring new talent because they simply don’t have the time for onboarding and training. Onboarding is the period of induction and training where new employees learn company culture and procedures, as well as the specific ways to do their job. Virtual onboarding or online training is this induction training, but presented in an online format.
In recent years more and more businesses are using an Learning Management System (LMS) to manage the virtual onboarding process. Let’s look at some of the online modules you can include in your virtual onboarding system to make the whole process more efficient and affordable.
1. Company information
Your virtual oboarding system would usually begin with an introduction to your organisation and include a welcome from the CEO or business owner. Use this module to create a strong company brand by ensuring your workers understand your mission, values, background, and history.
2. Human resources
An HR module sets out the terms and conditions of employment and will help new workers understand their working hours, entitlements, and how their wages are paid. It’s best practice to outline the details of:
- Probationary periods, performance appraisals and promotions.
- Leave and work absences.
- Grievance and disciplinary procedures.
The HR module will also include detailed instructions for filling out timesheets, using timeclocks or finger-scanners, submitting leave requests, and providing personal information (eg, bank account details).
3. Job description
Create an online module that accompanies each job description so new employees fully understand their role and responsibilities. You can also include a library of how-to videos that demonstrate job-specific tasks.
4. Common tasks
One of the most frustrating experiences for new employees is having to interrupt a co-worker or supervisor to find out where to get stationary or how to submit a purchase order. It’s great to have a series of modules that cover different organisational tasks that everyone needs to know. Here’s a few examples:
- Using industry-specific software.
- Applying company style guides and branding to letters, emails, and other correspondence.
- Instructions for staff parking areas and using company vehicles.
This section can also include a map of the office (or worksite) and details of the organisation’s opening and closing times.
5. Code of conduct
The Code of Conduction module clearly outlines your organisation’s behavioural standards and has procedures to address issues like sexual harassment, bullying, discrimination, drug and alcohol use, smoking, dress standards, and diligence.
Progressive organisations use scenario videos that demonstrate both acceptable and unacceptable behaviours.
6. Health and safety
Including your work health and safety systems in your LMS supports overall site safety and is great for compliance. As a minimum you’ll have your WHS policies and training for:
- Safe lifting, carrying, and manual handling.
- Using fire-fighting equipment.
- Evacuations and emergency responses.
- Reporting injuries, dangerous incidents, and near misses.
Depending on the size and complexity of your organisation, you may need to create separate WHS modules for different safety hazards and risk areas.
Related elearning experiences: Benefits of eLearning for Business, Scenario Based Learning, Evolve Lecture Video Template.