What makes a good buddy

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Learn why a buddy system is advantageous for organizations and how you can implement one in your business. Quick Navigation:. A buddy system is a knowledge-sharing method used to onboard new employees into the workplace. Each new employee is assigned to an existing employee who guides them through their first weeks or months in their new position. Buddy programs work for virtual onboarding and in-person onboarding.

The exchange of information goes both ways. The mutual exchange of ideas enhances the organization by encouraging innovative thinking and allowing the new employee to offer confidential feedback. A buddy system is an easy way to create a positive onboarding experience for employees.

It complements the first-day and job-specific training the new hire gets. Additionally, a well-executed onboarding process positions new employees for long-term success within your company. Assigning every new employee a buddy gives employees a reliable, enthusiastic and ongoing single point of contact for their questions. The immediate socialization and feeling of being part of the team can make a substantial difference in early workplace performance and long-term retention.

Define the purpose and goals of the program. Decide on the length of time that each pairing will last and any rules for the buddy relationships. This might include how often the buddies need to meet, how long each meeting should be and when the buddy relationship will end. Establish the specific tasks and expectations for the buddy system.

Make a checklist of every topic and task that you would like each buddy to cover with the newly hired employee, including paperwork, introductions to team members, a tour of the office, explanation of the processes and software the organization uses, and anything else you think would benefit the employee. Break down the checklist by days, such as a section for first-day tasks, first-week tasks and first-month tasks. This helps ensure all tasks are completed and gives every new hire a similar experience.

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This is so that he or she feels that the buddy understands the feelings related to beginning a new job and can relay information that the new hire may need. Of course, the buddy must be familiar enough with the organizational structures, both formal and informal, to be a reliable source of information. Being a buddy is a development opportunity for employees. If possible, a different buddy should be selected for each new employee, giving everyone in the department the chance to participate.

While the buddy may explain some simple job-related procedures, it is the responsibility of the supervisor to answer more complex questions that involve the work itself.