Giving your trainees the right start, even in exceptional circumstances

Managing your new trainees so they can be as effective, settled and happy as possible is important with any new intake. Whilst firms over the past 3 months have faced the unique challenges of onboarding staff remotely, inducting new trainees can still be done successfully. Although the circumstances of your new trainee intake have changed considerably since last year, we share some guidelines on how to give your new talent the right start and navigate exceptional circumstances.

Keep connected

For many the reduction and change in face to face contact (if still working remotely, or within new guidelines at the office) will be viewed as a barrier for communicating with new starters. Previous studies show that 65% of all communication is non-verbal, so if still working remotely utilise video conferencing software where you can. Touch base with your new starters throughout the day and allow them to share their ideas, thoughts and questions they may have. Relationships are also key to mental wellbeing and connection in the workplace – so ensure there is time scheduled for them to meet and get to know their team members and other colleagues. There are a variety of tools available to help with this, including Zoom, Slack and Microsoft Teams.

Training can still be a priority

You’ll want to get your new trainees up to speed as soon as possible and give them the best possible start of their accountancy career. With COVID-19 accelerating digital transformation and the rise of online training options, training for your new starters doesn’t have to go on the back burner. Taking place in September, our Induction Week can support you, providing essential training and all delivered from an online, safe environment. Delivered as virtual classrooms, our programme provides your new trainees with all the practical training they need to get a head start, including:

• Bookkeeping: Covering the fundamentals in bookkeeping, accounts preparation and types of business.
• Introduction to VAT: We will familiarise attendees with scope of VAT, accounting for VAT and the VAT return.
• Making the Right Start with Clients and Colleagues: Introducing the importance of good communication skills, being professional, body language basics and telephone tips.

Want to find out how to equip your new starters with this expert knowledge? You can find out more about our Induction Week programme here.

Similar to our face to face training, our virtual classrooms still allow the opportunity to network with peers. If you’re new to our Mercia Live events, we’ve pulled together some helpful frequently asked questions, to support you and your firm.

Want some further support on our training options or wider COVID-19 related support? Call our friendly team now on 0330 058 7131 or email sales@mercia-group.com.