Which phase of onboarding occurs before the employee’s first day?

The phase of onboarding that occurs before the employee's first day is preboarding. This stage involves various activities designed to prepare both the employee and the organization for the official start date. During preboarding, new hires might receive important information about their roles, company culture, and expectations. This can include sending welcome emails, providing access to necessary systems, sharing relevant materials (like handbooks or benefits information), and introducing them to coworkers or key team members virtually.

Preboarding is crucial because it helps create a sense of belonging and prepares the employee for a smoother transition once they officially start working. It sets the tone for their experience within the organization and can increase engagement and retention right from the onset. By fostering connections and providing clarity about their role ahead of their start date, the organization helps the new hire feel valued and ready to contribute from day one.