Tools & Resources

As the hiring leader, you are the most influential person in the onboarding process. You are the link that integrates new employees into the organization. On this page you will find a few tools and resources to assist in your role as the hiring leader. Please feel free to make the resources your own, as they are only suggested templates and formats.

You may access each of our onboarding tools and resources below, and they are also contained with our Leader’s Guide to Onboarding, which may be downloaded on the right of the page.

Onboarding Tools & Resources

Welcome Announcement Template

This template letter is designed to help leaders introduce a new member to their team. Be sure to copy your new employee on your welcome announcement. Please note that this is only a suggested format.

Department Orientation Template

This list contains suggested elements to include in a department orientation package for new employees. Employees will receive information about the Faculty and applicable benefits during their orientation with FHS Human Resources.

First Day Schedule (Sample)

Your employee's first day in their new role will be memorable. Help make it a positive experience by planning their schedule in advance.

Check-In Interview Template

A new employee’s first days, weeks and months can be overwhelming as they try to sort through a wealth of information and adjust to their new environment and role. Checking-in regularly with your new employee over the first several months will help to provide clarity to their role, enhance performance, and assist in the development of a positive working relationship.

Health Sciences New Employee Welcome Website

The Health Sciences New Employee Welcome Website was created to share everything we think new faculty and staff might need or want to know about life in the Faculty of Health Sciences. The purpose of the website is to assist new employees and hiring leaders through the onboarding journey, while building community and creating a connection to the Faculty of Health Sciences.

Health & Safety Orientation Checklists

The FHS Safety Office created Health & Safety orientation checklists for both office and laboratory environments. The checklists provide managers with a list of topics for review with new employees to ensure appropriate training is in place, and that all employees are aware of proper protocols, procedures, and reporting requirements.

New Employee Orientation Program

McMaster’s New Employee Orientation Program (NEO) is delivered by the Centre for Continuing Education and sponsored by Human Resources Services. All continuing employees, or those working in a contract position greater than 12 months are eligible to attend. As a hiring leader, you should encourage your new employees to sign-up and attend this one-day highly informative session. Employees will learn about McMaster’s mission, structure, culture and key services, and have the opportunity to network with colleagues from across the University and explore the campus environment.

FHS Ambassador Program

The FHS Ambassador Program is a volunteer initiative, led by Health Sciences Human Resources, that connects current employees – who have a pride in and passion for working in the FHS, with new hires to provide advice and guidance during the orientation period. The goal of the program is to make the new employee feel welcomed and part of our Faculty, reduce some of the initial uncertainty around starting in a new organization, and help them integrate into their new environment with ease and confidence.

Leader's Onboarding Checklist

This checklist is designed to assist Hiring Leader's with the onboarding process, from preparation for new employee's arrival to their successful integration into their department and the Faculty.