Does onboarding mean you are hired?

Onboarding is a very positive sign that you are hired, but make sure to receive formal confirmation.

The term "onboarding" refers to the process an organisation uses to integrate a new employee into the company. It includes training, introductions, and familiarisation with company policies. But does participating in onboarding mean you have the job for sure?

Is onboarding the same as being hired?

It's important to understand that while onboarding usually follows a job offer, it does not always mean the position is legally confirmed. Often, onboarding happens after an offer is accepted, but before all conditions (like background checks) are satisfied. Therefore, it is generally a strong indication of being hired, but it is wise to wait for formal confirmation.

What is Onboarding?

Onboarding is the process of integrating a new employee into an organisation. This can include training, meeting team members, and understanding the company's tools and expectations.

The goal of onboarding is to help new hires feel comfortable in their role and understand their tasks. It’s a crucial time when new employees learn about the company culture and start to build relationships.

Examples of Onboarding Activities

During onboarding, new hires might participate in several activities to get up to speed. More activities help them understand and adapt to their new role more smoothly.

Training Sessions

Training sessions are common during onboarding. They might cover specific job functions, software tools, or company policies. Trainers use this time to ensure that new employees have the knowledge they need to perform their duties effectively.

Meet and Greets

New employees are often introduced to team members and other colleagues. These meetings are crucial for starting professional relationships and feeling a sense of belonging.

Final Steps Before Confirmation

Even after participating in onboarding, there may still be steps to complete before you are officially hired. These steps can include:

Background checks
Contract signing
Medical examinations
Submission of any required documents

These are usually formalities, but until they are completed, your employment might not be fully confirmed.

Therefore, while onboarding is a very positive sign that you are hired, make sure to complete all required steps and receive formal confirmation.