onboarding
ON-bor-ding
/ˈɒnbɔːdɪŋ/
The process of integrating a new employee into an organization.
Onboarding is more than just 'orientation'; it can last for months and includes training, social integration, and culture immersion.
The story behind the word. The term is nautical in origin, referring to the moment a passenger or crew member physically steps 'on board' a ship. In the 1970s, it was adopted by management consultants to describe the transition of new hires.
Word relationships
- induction: Induction is more common in British English and often refers to the formal paperwork and safety briefings.
- offboarding: The process of managing an employee's departure from a company.
Commonly confused with
- orientation: Orientation is a one-day event; onboarding is a long-term process.
Word family
- onboard (verb): To bring a new person into a team.
Collocations
- onboarding process
- onboarding program
- digital onboarding
Example sentences
- "A successful onboarding process ensures that new hires feel welcome and understand their role from day one." A manager planning for a new hire.
Memory hook
Onboarding is getting the new hire 'On the Board' (the ship) of the company. Onboarding = Welcome to the ship.
When not to use
Don't use it for getting on a plane (that's just 'boarding').
Fun facts
- Studies show that 20% of employee turnover happens in the first 45 days, often due to poor onboarding.
Related words
Explore more words
onboard, Integration, integrate, induct, socialization, retention
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