Teaching New Hires Your Company’s Language

Every company has its own language. This language consists of the company’s unique culture, processes, assumptions, and tribal-knowledge – among other things. It is this internal language that allows staff to communicate effectively and efficiently. However, this language can also be off-putting to new employees.

The Danger of Not Explicitly Integrating New Employees

The dangers of not explicitly integrating new employees into a company’s language is obvious to experienced managers. When new hires are not integrated into the company language, there are often negative consequences that can sour the employee’s perception of the company from day one.

For example, it can lead to a lack of understanding or trust between the new employees and their colleagues. This can create tension and confusion in the workplace and ultimately lead to decreased productivity and morale. 

Also, without understanding the language of the company, new employees can feel overwhelmed and isolated. This can lead to feelings of frustration and a lack of engagement or empowerment with their work. This is especially true if this lack of knowledge makes it hard for new employees to perform their basic job duties.

Furthermore, if new hires don’t have a good grasp of the company language, it can be difficult for them to effectively communicate their efforts with their colleagues and management in a way that is easily quantified.

Teaching Company Language to New Employees

The first step in teaching new hires about a company’s language may seem obvious. It is to make sure they have access to the right resources. This should include company values, mission statements, and other documents that can provide an overview of the company’s history and culture. 

Additionally, it is vital to provide new hires with a mentor or point of contact in the company who can answer any questions they may have about the culture or lingo. 

Another way to teach new hires about a company’s language is to provide them with immersive experiences. This could include team building activities, office tours, and regular discussions with current employees who can share their experiences and perspectives. These experiences can help new hires better understand the company culture and lingo and provide them with a sense of belonging.

Where to Start

Creating a welcoming environment for new hires starts with having clear expectations and providing ongoing support. Companies should strive to have a clear on boarding process in place that outlines the expectations for new hires and provides them with the resources they need to succeed.

This includes initiating them into the language of the company. This means providing them access and training on learning resources – whether this be the company’s Wiki, a dedicated training platform, or job shadowing.

Additionally, companies should provide new hires with regular check-ins and feedback to ensure that they are on the right track. 

It’s also important for companies to create an environment where new hires feel welcomed and accepted. This can be done by creating opportunities for new hires to get to know their colleagues and management, as well as providing the immersive experiences described above.

In Conclusion

Having a strong understanding of a company’s language is essential for new hires to feel welcomed and accepted. 

By providing new hires with the resources and immersive experiences they need to better understand that language, as well as creating a welcoming environment, companies can ensure that new hires feel supported and empowered.

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