The Power of Preboarding
Imagine it’s your first day at a new job. You wake up feeling equal parts excited and nervous. You’re not sure where to park, you don’t know if lunch is provided, and you’re hoping you’ll remember the names of the people you met during the interview. As you walk through the doors, you’re handed a stack of paperwork and shown to your desk. The welcome is polite, but not exactly warm.
Now, imagine a different scenario. A week before you started, you received a welcome package with a handwritten note from your manager, some company swag, and clear instructions for your first day. You were introduced to your “buddy” via email and even had a quick call with your manager to answer any questions. When you walk in on day one, people are expecting you, your computer is set up, and you feel like you already belong.
That’s the difference preboarding makes.
Preboarding refers to the intentional activities and communication that take place between the moment a candidate accepts a job offer and their first official day. While onboarding gets most of the attention, preboarding is the hidden gem of the employee experience. It builds excitement, reduces anxiety, and sets the stage for long-term engagement and success.
Why Preboarding Matters
Starting a new job is a major life transition. Without thoughtful communication during the weeks between acceptance and start date, new hires can feel isolated—or worse, they may second-guess their decision. Preboarding helps bridge this gap, ensuring employees arrive on day one feeling confident, supported, and eager to contribute.
The Benefits of Preboarding Activities
1. Builds Early Engagement
Employee engagement doesn’t start on day one—it begins the moment someone says “yes” to your offer. A simple email from the CEO, a quick team introduction, or a personalized welcome video shows that the new hire is valued. This early connection helps employees feel part of the culture right away.
2. Reduces First-Day Anxiety
Uncertainty breeds stress. Most employees want to know what time to arrive, what to wear, and who to ask for when they show up. Providing a preboarding guide with clear, practical details removes guesswork and helps new hires feel at ease walking in the door.
3. Accelerates Productivity
Preboarding can include access to online training, company values, or organizational charts. These resources give new employees a head start so that when they arrive, they’re not starting from zero—they’re already familiar with the basics, which helps them contribute more quickly.
4. Strengthens Employer Brand
Word travels fast, especially in today’s connected world. A thoughtful preboarding experience signals that your organization genuinely cares about people. New hires often share these positive experiences with peers, enhancing your reputation as an employer of choice.
5. Creates a Sense of Belonging
Belonging is one of the most powerful drivers of employee engagement. Preboarding activities like buddy programs, team coffee chats, or welcome lunches create meaningful human connections before day one. Even small gestures, like a personal welcome note, can go a long way.
The Difference Preboarding Makes Pays Off
Preboarding isn’t just a nice touch—it’s a critical step in creating a positive employee experience. It transforms uncertainty into excitement, builds trust, and sets the tone for a strong and lasting relationship. When organizations invest in preboarding, they send a clear message: We’re glad you’re here, and we want you to succeed. That message resonates long after the first day and pays dividends in engagement, retention, and loyalty.
Thinking about your preboarding process and looking for ways to improve? Take our upcoming course Starting Strong: Preboarding Done Right on September 18th!
