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Onboarding solutions without boredom
As online learning experts, we know the secret to transforming those yawn-inducing modules into engaging, effective onboarding solutions.
Online learning has come a long way since its inception – high quality graphics, animation, gamification, storytelling, scenarios etc – but unfortunately when it comes to workplace onboarding training this often falls into the “necessary evil” category for many organisations. It’s dry, repetitive, and frequently feels like a box-ticking exercise.
As online learning experts, we know the secret to transforming those yawn-inducing modules into engaging, effective onboarding solutions.
Our top tips
Make it micro
Break it down. Short, focused modules mean employees can quickly absorb and apply the essentials without feeling overwhelmed. Try using a mix of concept explainer videos, infographics, and branching scenarios with one for each micro piece of learning.
Keep it relevant
Ditch the one-size-fits-all approach. Use organisational data to understand your audience to tailor content to individual roles, teams, and goals. For example, if you’re talking procedures follow the workflow so that learners see the process in action.
Be genuine
Use storytelling and authentic voices. Real-life examples from peers and leaders bridge the gap between new hires and workplace requirements. Give learners real tasks to apply their new knowledge and skills so that they can learn on the job.
Use interactivity
Take advantage of tools. This will increase engagement by making learners active rather than passive. Try infographics, bite-sized videos, and interactive content to keep learners engaged and reduce cognitive overload.
Measure, learn, improve
Gather feedback and tweak the experience. Use quantitative data from the system you’re using to deliver the training to understand any pain points that are impeding progress and use qualitative data, such as surveys, to understand the learner experience.
Onboarding training is an opportunity to impress new hires so getting it right means boosting engagement, productivity, and retention before your new hires even finish their coffee.
A well-designed onboarding solution is an investment in your people, helping new employees become productive, engaged and confident sooner.
Bauer, T. N. (2010). Onboarding new employees: Maximizing success. SHRM Foundation.
Clark, R. C., & Mayer, R. E. (2016). e-Learning and the science of instruction: Proven guidelines for consumers and designers of multimedia learning (4th ed.). Wiley.
Merrill, M. D. (2013). First principles of instruction: Identifying and designing effective, efficient and engaging instruction. Pfeiffer.
