For many new employees, the first day at a new job can be as exciting and unnerving as the first day of school. Common concerns may include how well they will fit in, how quickly they will adapt to their new environment and how they will interact with an entirely new group of people. On this day, employers and human resources management are presented with an opportunity to make a strong first impression with an employee orientation.

The primary objective of a new employee orientation is to integrate employees into the company. Themes and topics discussed during an employee orientation may include:

• A walkthrough of the facility
• A presentation detailing the company culture and values
• A brief overview of company policies
• An introduction or presentation identifying executive staff
• A brief history of the company and its goals

Although there is a lot of information that needs to be conveyed during the orientation, remember to make it fun and interactive. Try to incorporate a variety of presentation methods like PowerPoint presentations, videos and company-themed games like Jeopardy. Using various presentation methods is especially useful for presenting dry, rigid material as it allows you to retain their attention. The ultimate goal should be to ensure that each new employee feels valued, engaged and excited about this new opportunity.

To add structure to an employee orientation, consider making a checklist or outline. This will allow employees to stay actively involved during the presentation. Ending each section with a review or fun quiz is a great way to make the material more memorable. Do not forget to set aside some time to inform the new hires about company perks and benefits. Let them know when they become eligible for benefits and the best ways to take advantage of them.

Companies with new hire orientation programs frequently report higher levels of job satisfaction, stronger retention rates and a more motivated workforce. Taking the time to welcome new employees into an organization through an employee orientation sets a positive tone and is a great way to start off on the right foot.