One of the most common phrases hiring managers use when describing their ideal candidate is someone who can “hit the ground running.”  What does this phrase actually mean in your business? Is it clearly defined for new employees, or is it just an assumption that they will seamlessly integrate without structured guidance?

   The Flawed Expectation of Instant Productivity

Many companies make the mistake of expecting new hires to immediately perform at full capacity, simply because they have prior industry experience. While experience is valuable, it does not automatically translate into instant proficiency in a new work environment.

For example, while a CNC machinist operated similar machines at a previous job, this does not directly translate to producing immediate results with minimal or no guidance at a new company with its own practices, procedures, and guidelines. Every organization maintains its own systems and expectations that require adjustment; minor differences—such as programming styles, tolerances, materials, or workflow—can significantly impact a machinist’s ability to perform effectively. Without proper onboarding, even the most skilled professionals may struggle to meet expectations.

This challenge is not limited to manufacturing. In almost every industry, companies tend to assume that hiring an experienced professional eliminates the need for onboarding and training. Due to these shortcomings, 76% of professionals believe that organizations are underutilizing onboarding programs.

This mindset can lead to frustration, errors, and ultimately, higher turnover rates. Employees who feel unsupported in their transition are more likely to struggle, which affects both productivity and morale.

   The Cost of Poor Onboarding

A Gallup poll concluded that 88% of new employees stated a poor onboarding experience within their organizations. When companies neglect proper training, they inadvertently set employees up for failure. New hires who are left to figure things out on their own often experience unnecessary stress, leading to mistakes, inefficiencies, and frustration. This leads 31% of new employees to ultimately quit within the first 180 days.

 Over time, this can result in:

1. Decreased Productivity: Employees take longer to get up to speed, slowing down operations.
2. Higher Turnover Rates: Frustrated employees are more likely to leave, increasing hiring costs.
3. Inconsistent Work Quality: Without clear guidance, employees may develop incorrect habits or fail to meet company standards.
4. Lower Employee Morale: A lack of support can make new hires feel undervalued and disconnected from the team.

   A Smarter Approach: Implementing Structured Onboarding

A structured onboarding process is essential to setting new employees up for success. From the very beginning of each employee’s first day, companies should have a clear plan in place to communicate expectations, introduce workflows, and provide necessary training. This doesn’t mean weeks of hand-holding, but rather a balanced approach that allows new hires to adapt efficiently while minimizing costly mistakes. Considering that the cost of replacing an employee can range from 90%-200% of their salary, investing in effective onboarding is essential.

An effective onboarding program should include:

1. 1. Clear Expectations: Define what “hitting the ground running” actually means in your company during the interview and on day one.
   2. Standardized Training: Provide resources, guides, and mentorship to help employees understand company-specific processes.
   3. Gradual Integration: Allow time for employees to acclimate rather than expecting immediate perfection.
   4. Ongoing Support: Encourage open communication and provide feedback to help new hires improve.

   Set Up Employees for Success

If your company expects new employees to “hit the ground running,” providing them with a clear roadmap is essential. Without it, even the most talented professionals can stumble before they find their footing. A thoughtfully designed onboarding process not only benefits new hires but also fortifies the entire organization. It cultivates a culture of efficiency, consistency, and long-term success, ensuring that everyone can contribute their best from day one.