Almost half of workers who have a rough start in their new job plan to quit within six months, according to a recent report highlighting serious flaws in how companies onboard new employees.
The Software Finder study found a clear link between a company’s onboarding process and how long new hires want to stick around. In fact, 32% of people hired in the last two years say they’re thinking about leaving soon. That number jumps to 48% for those who had a bad onboarding experience.
Many new employees face problems like unclear job expectations and a lack of proper training. Others get frustrated by delays in getting their computers set up or feeling overlooked during their first days. On top of that, a big 67% said their onboarding didn’t really reflect what their job or company culture is actually like.
More than a quarter of respondents described their onboarding as messy or rushed. Some found it dull, confusing, or just overwhelming. The report points out that onboarding that feels rushed or disconnected from the real work lowers confidence and pushes good talent away.
The takeaway? Investing effort into a smooth, clear onboarding process could make a huge difference. Workers suggest companies give a true picture of what the job will involve, and check in with them again after a few months. Those who had a positive onboarding experience felt a stronger bond with their company within their first month.
Companies have a real chance to keep employees happier and make them perform better by fixing how they bring new people into the team. With so many ready to leave early on, improving onboarding could help stop talented workers from walking out the door.