Preboarding: Before Day One
Remote onboarding starts before the first day:
1-2 weeks before:
- Ship equipment with clear setup instructions - Send welcome email with first-day agenda - Grant access to non-sensitive tools (email, Slack) - Assign an onboarding buddy - Send company swag
Goal:
They should feel welcomed and prepared, not anxious about logistics.
The Critical First Week
Week one sets the tone for everything after:
- Day 1 welcome call with manager - Set expectations, answer questions
- Tool setup session - Walk through all systems they'll use
- Meet the team - Introduce to immediate teammates
- First assignment - Give them a small win on day 1 or 2
- Daily check-ins - Short calls to answer questions and gauge comfort
- Documentation deep-dive - Where to find what they need
Pro tip: Overschedule week one. New remote employees feel isolated when their calendar is empty.
The 30-60-90 Day Framework
Structure the first 90 days with clear milestones:
Day 30:
"Learning" - Understand the role, team, and company - Complete all required training - Build relationships with key stakeholders - Complete first meaningful project
Day 60:
"Contributing" - Working independently on regular tasks - Participating actively in team discussions - Identified one improvement opportunity - Received and incorporated feedback
Day 90:
"Owning" - Fully productive in role - Taking initiative without prompting - Contributing ideas and improvements - Established as reliable team member
Document these expectations and review together at each milestone.
Related Guides
How to Hire Your First Remote Worker
A step-by-step guide to making your first remote hire successful, from job posting to onboarding.
Managing Remote Teams Across Time Zones
Strategies for effective collaboration when your team spans the globe.
Building a Remote-First Company Culture
Create connection and belonging when your team never shares an office.