PEOPLE
TEAM TRANSFORMER
Martin Reed Reed has been at the helm of psychometric testing company Thomas International since 2007, having been appointed chairman two years earlier. As well as penning this regular column for Elite Business, he is also a founding member of Buckingham Business First and a fellow of the Institute of Directors.
New beginnings 65
The arrival of a fresh recruit is a daunting prospect for both the individual concerned and the team they are joining. The integration process should therefore take the needs of all parties into account, says Martin Reed
A
ccording to government statistics, the economy is on the up and confidence is improving. Another positive sign is the fact that the rate of unemployment has dropped to 7.7%, down from 7.8% the previous quarter, which means that more companies are hiring and the jobs market is becoming stronger. Although the outlook is positive with companies taking on new members of staff, recruitment can present its own challenges, not just in finding the right person, but in welcoming new members to the team and helping existing team members deal with internal changes and adapt to changing team dynamics. So, the interview process is over, you’ve decided that you’ve found the right person for your role and they’ve decided your company is right for them. What now? As I’m sure we all remember, starting a new job can be nervewracking. You’re faced with new responsibilities, new colleagues and a new boss, not to mention a different working environment. It’s essential for the new employee to be made to feel as welcome as possible and the process of engaging with your new starter can start even before their first day. Apart from the job offer letter, which should express your personal welcome, it’s worth considering inviting them on a team event or lunch. Inviting a fresh recruit along to meet their new colleagues in an informal environment is a good way to start their integration into your team.
“It’s essential for the new employee to be made to feel as welcome as possible”
(H)Thomas Intl.indd 1
31/10/2013 20:28