Onboarding program supports and acclimates new hires
As part of its expanded onboarding program efforts to provide new hires with the best possible transition to Virginia Tech, Human Resources has launched the peer-to-peer onboarding program. This program is designed to help new employees become familiar with the university, build professional relationships, and learn more about the culture and core values.
Volunteers and stakeholders gathered at Holtzman Alumni Center on Oct. 19 to kick off the program's pilot phase.
"Peer-to-peer is the latest offering in our efforts through Human Resources to create a seamless and caring transition into the Hokie community,” said Bryan Garey, vice president for human resources. “We want new faculty and staff to know we are happy to have them here and care about their success at Virginia Tech."
Peer-to-peer onboarding is an expansion of orientation and other initiatives promoted by the onboarding team such as the “buddy” system and more. It includes three main components: role partners, culture champions, and culture cohorts.
Role partners are part of the same team or department as new hires and ensure they are fully integrated into the team. Role partners help new employees get settled into their new jobs.
Culture champions help new hires learn more about the benefits of being a Hokie. They assist new employees in acclimating to the Virginia Tech culture and explain the university's values and guiding principles.
Culture cohorts are groups of recently hired employees that meet to build relationships and collaborate. Participants can attend virtual monthly meetings to share their thoughts, challenges, and creative solutions to adjusting to their new roles. Cohorts learn about Virginia Tech's Principles of Community and culture through group discussions.
"The best way to learn is through experience, and there's no better teacher than a peer,” said Rodney Irvin, director for employee relations. “Peer-to-peer onboarding is a great way to get new employees acclimated to the culture and their new roles. It's a win-win for everyone involved."
More information about onboarding at Virginia Tech can be found on the onboarding for managers website.
To learn more about the peer-to-peer onboarding program, visit the program website.
Employees interested in volunteering to be a culture champion should email Nelly Rodriguez, employee relations consultant.
