HR Policy + Process Consultancy > Onboarding, Induction + Probation

Employee Onboarding Process

Onboarding a new employee should feel exciting but often it can be the opposite and feel incredibly overwhelming. We help organisations across the UK design effective onboarding and probation processes that set new hires up for success from day one.

Why onboarding + probation matter

A thoughtful onboarding process helps new starters feel welcomed, understand your business, and get productive faster.

Paired with a well-managed probation period, you ensure that both you and your new team members are happy with the fit before making anything permanent.

Benefits of a strong onboarding and probation approach:

  • Higher employee engagement from the outset

  • Faster ramp-up to full productivity

  • Improved retention rates

  • Stronger cultural alignment

  • Clear expectations set from day one

What’s included in our onboarding + probation service?

We work with you to create a structured, supportive journey for every new hire, including:

  • Pre-boarding
    We help you share key information and make early connections before day one — so your new hire feels part of the team straight away

  • Orientation
    We introduce new starters to your company culture and ways of working, making sure they know what to expect and how they fit in

  • Probation goal setting + feedback
    We support you in setting clear goals for the probation period, along with regular check-ins and feedback to track progress

  • Formal review
    At the end of probation (typically 3 to 6 months), we help you hold a structured review to assess performance, fit, and whether the role is right for both parties. This could result in a successful confirmation, an extension, or — if needed — a decision to part ways

Common questions about onboarding + probation

How do I write an induction guide?

We help you create an engaging, practical guide that introduces your company, your values, and what new starters need to know without overwhelming them

How often should I communicate with new hires before they start?

We recommend regular, light-touch communication during pre-boarding to keep excitement high and answer any early questions.

How long should employment probation periods last?

Most probation periods last between 3 to 6 months, but we help tailor this to suit your organisation, employment legislation and role requirements.

How do I structure a great induction?

We focus on balancing essential information with relationship-building and culture-sharing — so new hires feel supported, not swamped.

Ready to set your new hires up for success?

If you want to boost your new starters productivity, improve retention, and make sure your team member feels like part of the business from day one, we’re here to help.

Get in touch today to learn more about our onboarding and probation services and how they can support your business.

Get in Touch

Contact Us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Aliya Vigor-Robertson
Founding Partner
+44 7979 498 455
aliya@journeyhr.com

Sue Shaw
Founding Partner
+44 7939 992 801
sue@journeyhr.com

Location

JourneyHR
5th Floor, High Holborn House
52–54 High Holborn
London WC1V 6RL

Office Hours

Monday–Friday
9am–5.30pm