Why Onboarding Takes So Long and What Know-How Can Do About It
Formal training takes weeks, real independence takes months or years. The gap between the two is made up of knowledge a new hire can only get from experienced colleagues.
Where the biggest delays come from
New hires pick up procedures quickly. What slows them down is uncertainty in situations procedures don't cover – and having to check with colleagues who have their own work to do.
- Missing context for why things are done a certain way.
- Answers scattered across several different people.
- Experienced colleagues answering the same questions over and over.
What actually shortens ramp-up
Know-how is available instantly, without waiting on a colleague.
New hires work with real situations from the operation.
Experts get back to their own work instead of repeating explanations.
It's visible which areas the new hire has already mastered.
Frequently asked questions
No, but it significantly lightens the load. Mentors can focus on complex topics instead of basic, repeated questions.
Usually already with the first group of new hires who have access to captured know-how from critical roles.