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Retention Resources

May 2004

Helping Employees Transition to New Jobs

All workers need help making job transitions, not just your new hires. You can't assume that a successful employee in one department or job will automatically repeat his or her success in another. Here are six strategies for making the transition work:

1. Clarify your expectations upfront.
Don't presume the employee knows exactly what he or she’s hired to do. He or she may not feel comfortable asking, since he or she is "established." Take the initiative in bringing up the subject.

2. Spell out business goals and company dynamics.
Discuss important business goals and corporate culture in your department. Cover the "big picture" topics such as overall strategy and projections. Never assume new hires already know the basics, even those who come from another part of the organization. Knowledge and culture can differ between floors.

3. Help nurture the network.
Nobody works in a vacuum. You should have frank discussions with employees about the people who will affect his or her job. Identify direct reports, subordinates, major clients and others. Success hinges on his or her ability to perform a strong business network.

4. Be honest about potential pitfalls and past mistakes.
Talking about past failures in that department or position can often be the most valuable experiences. If necessary, review your notes from past interviews.

5. Hold regular assimilation reviews.
Common wisdom says the "honeymoon" lasts six months. During that time, hold meetings to discuss his or her new job, review early performance and ask for feedback.

6. Provide resources before a crisis hits.
Don't wait until an employee is on the verge of quitting before you act. Be sure the he or she is coached upfront, during the transition.

 

Working Solutions is a non-profit  organization providing employee training and  leadership development services for  healthcare organizations,  non-profits and corporations.  This retention tip is  published monthly to provide tips, strategies and new  ideas for HR professionals, managers and executives to  help retain their  employees.   

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