What should be included in an onboarding checklist?

An effective onboarding checklist ensures the entire onboarding process is completed without missing any steps. It includes preboarding tasks, first-day orientation processes, legal and HR paperwork, company handbooks and policies, role-specific training and documentation, team introductions, and regular check-ins (usually, at the 30, 60, and 90-day mark).

What paperwork is required for onboarding?

New team members typically complete tax forms (W-4 and state-specific), employment eligibility verification through I-9, direct deposit authorization, benefits enrollment, and company policy agreements. Depending on the company and role, other paperwork might include confidentiality agreements, IT policies, and work permits.

What are the C’s of onboarding?

The five C’s of onboarding are Compliance (meeting legal requirements), Clarification (understanding role expectations), Culture (learning company values), Connection (building relationships), and Check back (ongoing feedback and support). These elements are the foundation of a strong onboarding program that supports long-term success.

What is onboarding documentation?

Onboarding documentation is the collection of paperwork and company materials provided to newly hired team members. This includes everything from employment contracts and company policies to tax forms and non-disclosure agreements. For HR teams, these documents are critical to establishing legal compliance, setting clear expectations, introducing company culture, and creating consistency across departments.