Setting Up New Employees for Success - Geelong Small Business Festival

Onboarding new employees effectively is essential for fostering engagement, accelerating productivity, and retaining top talent. According to research by Aberdeen Group, organisations with a structured onboarding process achieve 54% greater new hire productivity and 50% greater new hire retention. Therefore, small businesses must invest in robust onboarding programs to create new employees for success.

This workshop-style session will provide the insights, practical strategies, and tools that allow you to immediately implement impactful change in your business. Walk out with a clear action plan aligned to your business needs.

During this session you will learn about practical strategies to:

• Developing a structured and effective onboarding experience
• Designing effective onboarding programs to accelerate employee integration
• Providing tools and resources for skill development and goal setting
• Cultivating a supportive environment for new hires to thrive

Designing a comprehensive onboarding plan that spans the pre-boarding, orientation, and integration phases ensures that new hires feel welcomed and prepared for their roles. This includes providing them with essential information about the company's culture, values, and expectations before their first day.

Providing tools and resources for skill development and goal setting is also crucial during the onboarding process. Research by Gallup indicates that employees who receive regular feedback on their strengths are 7.8% more productive. By offering constructive feedback and opportunities for growth from the outset, small businesses can empower new hires to excel in their roles and contribute to organisational success.

The Presenters

Belinda Fyffe, CEO The Proven Group 

Belinda has extensive experience in implementing new systems and improving work practices both internally and on a contract basis. With senior management roles in retail, manufacturing, and local government, she is known for creating positive change and achieving results.

Belinda helps organisations and individuals learn leadership and management skills through the practical, hands-on Program Leading & Managing Teams. This program equips participants with tools to implement immediately in the workplace, fostering positive change and preparing organisations for future challenges.

Belinda's work includes coaching, training, financial planning, business strategy, and direction setting. She uses her vast experience to provide innovative, individual solutions that link employee performance to profit, unlocking business success.

Jennifer Carter, Senior HR Strategist

Jen, a Senior HR Strategist with 20 years of experience, specialises in HR management, operational leadership, and small business support. She has worked across diverse sectors, including warehousing, logistics, food manufacturing, agriculture, education, health, IT, and civil engineering.

Jen excels at simplifying complex legal requirements and employee engagement practices into actionable steps that deliver results. She is passionate about resolving people-related challenges, enhancing leadership, and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Known for her friendly and supportive approach, Jen quickly establishes rapport and is recognised as a trusted advisor and partner.