UNIVERSAL FANS
New Starter Buddy Program
TABLE OF CONTENTS Our history ................................................................................ 3 Buddy Program.......................................................................... 4 What to look forward to ........................................................... 5 Buddy Expectations................................................................... 6 Buddy Feedback ........................................................................ 7
OUR HISTORY
Universal Fans is a family business that began in 1988 as a neighbourhood shop in Balwyn, owned and run by an electrician and his wife. Within just a few years, George and Corina (current owners) moved the business to Waverley Road in East Malvern, where it continued to grow from just 2, to a team of 10!
In 2014 we moved again to cater for our growth to our current premises in South Oakleigh, where we have now grown to a staff of 40! We have a stunning showroom, two warehouses (Oakleigh South & Braeside) and spacious offices for our wonderful team, led by our two general managers, Julia & Joel.
With a legacy of pioneering technology, a commitment to enhancing indoor comfort, and an eye for design, we continue to shape the air circulation landscape.
Today, Universal Fans stands as an iconic Australian brand, celebrated for revolutionising the way Australians experience air movement.
3
BUDDY PROGRAM
We would like to extend a warm welcome to Universal Fans and to introduce you to the Buddy Program! This program is designed to help new employees like you, feel welcome and supported during your transition into our company.
As a new employee, you will be paired with a Senior Buddy, who will be your guide during your first year with us. Your Buddy will help you learn about our company culture and to provide you with guidance and support.
Your Buddy will also be a valuable resource for ongoing support and feedback as you settle into your new role. They will help you to feel comfortable and confident in your new position and provide you with the guidance and support you need to succeed.
Participating in our Buddy Program can be a rewarding experience, and we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to learn from your Buddy and build a strong working relationship with them.
"The buddy program made starting my new job approachable. It gave me a great grounding by creating a friendly connection with another staff member, that I could approach and converse about work with. Without that, my transition into the Universal Fans Family would not have been as smooth and positive as it
4
was"
-Hendrik
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO
Your Senior Buddy will reach out and introduce themselves to you within your first day or two.
The Buddy Program officially lasts for 12 months; however, we expect that your buddying working friendship will continue to grow past the 12 months! During this time, you and your buddy will share a few outings together for coffee, and really get to know each other.
We arrange for your buddy to be from a different department, so you can gain insights into other areas of the business. It is their role as a buddy, to assist you with any questions about Universal Fans that is not directly related to your role.
The first few months in a new job is always tough, but you will have the support of your buddy (and your team!) to help make the journey as easy as possible.
5
BUDDY EXPECTATIONS
Whilst the Buddy Program is designed to provide you with additional support as you start your journey with Universal Fans, there are some things you need to be mindful of.
Respect: Mutual respect is essential. Work buddies should respect each other's opinions, work styles, and boundaries. They should avoid any behavior that could be perceived as disrespectful or disruptive.
Positive Attitude: Maintaining a positive and enthusiastic attitude can improve the overall working relationship. Optimism and encouragement can motivate both work buddies to excel.
Confidentiality: Work buddies may share information and ideas that are not meant for wider distribution. It's important to respect the confidentiality of such information and not share it without proper authorisation.
Boundaries: While it's important to collaborate closely, work buddies should respect each other's personal boundaries to maintain a healthy working relationship. Remember, the buddy program is designed for working hours.
Time Management: Both work buddies should manage their time effectively to ensure that their collaboration is productive and does not negatively impact their individual responsibilities.
If you are ever unsure, you can speak with your buddy for guidance.
6
BUDDY FEEDBACK
“The buddy program is a fantastic initiative that helped me settle in and familiarise myself with my new work family. I think it is also fabulous that my mentor works within a different team, giving me a greater insight into the company and culture.” -Luke
♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦
“Having a dear friend by your side, especially in a new place, is an exquisite blessing. The Buddy Program was like a lifeline, giving me comfort and support whenever I needed it. Now, with the support of my colleagues and the Buddy Program, I can say that I’m a proud member of the Universal Fans family.” -Khaussain
♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦
“The Buddy Program made me feel welcome to universal fans family’s straight from the first week. This is so helpful with the transition to a new workplace. 3 months in and I feel I have been in the company forever.” -Erwin
7
