Onboarding and termination are two of the most crucial times in the employee life cycle. How you handle them can have a lasting impact on your company culture, and most importantly, on how your employees feel about their time with you. Let’s break down the essentials of both processes, focusing on a practical approach that anyone can follow.

Onboarding: The Right Start

Bringing someone new into the company should be an exciting time for both the employee and the organization. Onboarding is more than just paperwork; it's about getting the new hire set up for success and helping them feel part of the team from day one.

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Pre-First Day: Setting Up for Success

A little prep work goes a long way. Make sure their workspace is ready, including all the tech they’ll need (laptop, phone, logins, etc.). Don't forget to share an agenda for their first day, so they know exactly what to expect. A little heads-up can turn their first day into a lot less stress and more excitement.

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First Day: Making Them Feel Welcome

When they arrive, make sure to give them a warm welcome. Introduce them to the team, show them around, and make them feel comfortable. A tour, even if it’s just a quick one, helps them settle in.

Once that’s done, it’s time for some introductions to the company culture. Walk them through the company mission, your values, and your expectations. You’ll want them to understand what makes your workplace tick from the start, so they know how to contribute to the overall picture.

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Role-Specific Training: Building Confidence

Training doesn’t stop with just getting them familiar with the office. You’ll want to dive into what their day-to-day will look like. Spend time explaining the ins and outs of their role, what’s expected of them, and how their performance will be measured. Regular check-ins during the first few weeks help to ensure they’re comfortable and don’t feel lost.

Some companies even assign a “buddy” to new hires—someone they can go to with questions during those early days. It helps ease the transition and gives them a friendly face to approach when they need help.

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Onboarding Tools: Keeping Things Organized

In today’s world, there are plenty of tools to make onboarding easier. Whether you’re using BambooHR, WorkBright, or simple tools like Trello, there are tons of options that help you manage tasks and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

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A Simple Checklist for Onboarding

● Prepare tech (laptop, email access, software)

● Send over documents or forms to fill out

● Set up meetings for introductions (team, leaders)

● Provide an employee handbook and benefits details

● Schedule regular check-ins during the first few weeks

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Employee Termination: Handling It the Right Way

No one likes to talk about firing employees or someone leaving the company. However, termination is part of business life. Whether an employee is resigning or you have to make a tough decision, you need to handle it with respect and professionalism.

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Writing a Clear Termination Letter

A termination letter should be straightforward but also considerate. For immediate terminations, it's essential to explain the situation clearly. For voluntary resignations, your letter should express appreciation for their time and contributions. Both types of letters should outline the last working day, severance details (if applicable), and the steps the employee needs to take next.

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Legal Considerations for Termination

If the termination is on the employer’s side, especially in the UAE, you’ll need to ensure there are legal grounds for the decision. This could range from performance issues to misconduct, or even breach of company policies. But keep in mind that you must follow the right procedures before proceeding, such as providing warnings or documentation for poor performance.

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Handover Process: Smooth Transitions

When an employee leaves, it’s critical to make sure there’s a smooth handover process. For instance, you may need them to document ongoing projects, responsibilities, and contacts. Having a clear handover document is a lifesaver, especially in fast-paced roles.

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Responding to Resignation

If someone submits their resignation, acknowledge it promptly. Let them know you understand and thank them for their contributions. Clearly confirm the final working day and share any next steps they need to follow. This not only keeps the process transparent but also ensures there’s no confusion down the line.

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Record-Keeping and Legal Aspects

Even after an employee leaves, you’ll need to store their records for a set period. This includes things like the resignation or termination letter, performance reviews, and any legal notices. It’s important to have a system in place for this to ensure you comply with labor laws and can access information when needed.

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Employment Visa Cancellation (UAE)

If your employee was on a work visa in the UAE, you’ll need to cancel it as part of the termination process. This is a legal requirement, and there’s a process to follow to make sure the visa is officially canceled. Make sure both the employer and employee are clear on what needs to happen here.

Ensure a smooth transition from start to finish with People Partners' expert onboarding services. We’ll help you welcome new hires with confidence and manage exits respectfully, all while staying compliant with UAE labor laws. Ready to streamline your employee lifecycle? Contact People Partners today and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on best practices, HR insights, and labor law updates!

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