Tour of Facility and Introductions
Chances are your new employee knows the room where you interviewed him and gave the orientation, but that's about it. He shouldn't be left to fend for himself on the first day, so give him a tour of the building, or have another employee do it so that he can get to know one of his coworkers better. The person who does this should be someone who knows the scoop on everything and likes to talk.
He'll want to know where the restrooms are, who sits where, the functions of each department, and where the drinking fountain and supply room are located. Let him know if he is free to take supplies as he needs them, or if there is a procedure. Speaking of supplies, he should know who to ask if there is something he needs to do his job better or be more comfortable.
As you walk a new employee around the building, introduce him to everyone you can find, being sure to pronounce his name correctly. Help him get to know coworkers by saying things like, “This is Sally. She has worked here for ten years,” or “Ben was awarded ‘Employee of the Year’ in 2006.”
The company tour is also a good time to discuss safety issues. Tell him that spills on the floor should be cleaned up or brought to the right person's attention immediately, and to close any drawers or cabinets that are left open. Explain that a buddy system is used for lifting heavy items and point out the MSDS sheets if this applies. MSDS sheets are discussed in Chapter 11. Point out all possible exits in the event there is an emergency, and where the telephones and fire extinguishers are located. If safety compliance training is something that the company practices, let him know when the next session will be.
Walk around the outside of the building, too, showing where all of the entrances are and letting him know what is in the neighborhood if he is not familiar with it.
