The first day of school can be a major source of anxiety. You probably remember agonizing about what you would wear, getting your hair just right, and who would be in your homeroom. If starting a new school where everyone is a stranger, that anxiety level rises even higher. Beginning a new job or career, can be just as stressful. However, a good orientation to the organization can ease some of this stress and help new employees succeed. Most new employees probably receive a basic introduction during the first couple of days – a primer on using the office equipment, the company history, a copy of the personnel policies and an introduction to everyone who’s in the office. According to the Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector, a new employee orientation should include a review of the, organization’s personnel policies and procedures, position description, and an introduction to the Standards for Excellence®. But why stop here? A good orientation can be so much more than this depending on the culture and complexity of your organization. And don’t forget -- orientation is not just for front-line staff. Managers and executives also deserve a tailored orientation to help ease the transition and put them on the track to making an impact right away. Did you know? The Standards for Excellence® program’s educational resource packet, Personnel Policies and Employee Orientation," includes sample orientation checklist. Use this as a starting point for enhancing your new employee orientation. The packet is free and available to Standards for Excellence Institute® members. It is available through the members only section of our website. Hard copies are also available upon request. Not a member? Join now!