As an employer, you always want your newest employees to succeed. The high cost of a bad hire can affect a lot more than just your bottom line. So once you’ve brought someone on board, that doesn’t mean your work is done. The orientation, training, and onboarding process is just as important. Placing new employees with senior staff is a great way to pass on knowledge. Should you have your team mentor new workers? Yes, and here’s why.
Promotes Teamwork
You’ve probably seen it happen in your workplace. When less experienced employees arrive, some more experienced employees begin to think they’re being replaced. Their reactions may be unconscious, but they work differently. If you pair your seasoned employees with entry-level workers, it gives them a sense of ownership. They can see their knowledge is essential to the workplace.
Teaches Essential Skills
Not only is teamwork itself an essential skill, but so are the specific skills your mentors will be passing on to the newer employees. These skills are what make your shipyard run smoothly, including policies and procedures. That will only enhance everyone’s experience on the job and beyond.
Imparts Knowledge of Company Culture
Mentors don’t just train newer employees, they show them the ropes. Every workplace is different, and that’s exactly what you want. What makes your shipyard unique? What is your company culture? Someone who has worked with you for a long time will understand what makes the company tick and pass that information on to the next generation of employees.
Improves Retention
There are two reasons why mentorship programs improve employee retention. First, you give your experienced employees a job and responsibilities that show you trust them. Second, it provides additional training and onboarding in a more personal way to the new employees, which can mitigate turnover in the short term.
Are you looking to hire new workers for your team? Contact Hutco to learn more today.
