Word: onboarding (noun)

Associations

Onboarding refers to the process of integrating a new employee or member into an organization or team. It helps them understand their role, the company culture, and the tools they need to succeed.

• Example 1: "The onboarding process at the company includes training sessions and meetings with key team members." (Here, onboarding is used to describe the steps taken to help new employees adjust.)
• Example 2: "Effective onboarding can lead to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates." (In this case, it highlights the benefits of a good onboarding program.)
• Example 3: "We have an online onboarding portal that new hires can access at any time." (This shows how technology can facilitate the onboarding experience.)

The synonym "orientation" is often used, but onboarding is more comprehensive. Orientation usually refers to the initial introduction, while onboarding includes ongoing support and training.

Substitution

Some other phrases that can be used instead of onboarding include:

• "training program" – focuses more on the educational aspect.
• "induction" – often used in British English, refers to the formal introduction into a new role.
• "integration process" – emphasizes the blending of a new employee into the team.

These alternatives may change the focus slightly, but they all relate to helping someone start a new job or role.

Deconstruction

The word "onboarding" is made up of two parts:

• "on" – a preposition indicating position or direction.
• "boarding" – derived from the word "board," which means to get on or enter a vehicle or organization.

The term originated in the business world to describe the process of getting new hires "on board" with the company.

Inquiry

• How has your experience been with onboarding in your previous jobs?
• Can you think of ways that onboarding could be improved in a company?
• What aspects of onboarding do you think are most important for new employees to feel welcomed?