Without a real orientation, most new employees feel disoriented. Many have the feeling of being a stranger in a strange land, and that does not do much for morale, motivation, commitment, or productivity.
Increasing numbers of companies today are placing more emphasis on orienting new employees. The notion of tossing new employees into a job and then seeing if they sink or swim is quickly drying up. In its place are formal orientation programs that range from planned introductory meetings to programs that can last a couple of days and longer.
In fact, in larger companies, these programs can include various presentations, videos, group exercises and discussions, and meetings with top management. With this approach, the employees not only learn the basics about the company, such as the vacation plan or retirement program, but also learn about the company's values, culture, and shared expectations. This approach also accelerates the team-building process.
Since your company does not have an orientation program, you should meet with your manager to go over any questions that are puzzling to you as a new employee. And, one of those questions should be why the company does not have an orientation.
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