Checklist 1: New employee forms

You’ll need certain details from your new employee in order to pay them and for your own records.

These employment forms can include:

• Tax declaration forms
• Superannuation forms

Checklist 2: Before your employee starts

Documents you’ll need

• A copy of any licence required for the job (for example, a driver’s licence or forklift licence)
• For non-citizens, a copy of their working visa

Set up their personnel records

• Salary record or wage and time record
• Leave and holiday record

Employee details you’ll need

• Full name, address, contact number, and email address
• Emergency contact details
• Any special medical needs
• Bank account details

Details to provide to your employee

• Any documents that can be read beforehand, such as training manuals, code of conduct, and information about work hours, break times, benefits, and holidays and leave
• Where to go and who to ask for on day one
• The dress code
• Tools, equipment or other materials they’ll need to bring

Logistics

• Give them keys, an access card, or anything they’ll need to enter your workplace
• Set up their workstation and any equipment they’ll need
• Organise time for key team members to meet them

Checklist 3: The first week

Make your new starter feel welcome

• Think about how to make them feel welcome; have morning tea to celebrate them starting or organise a lunch to introduce them to the team
• Give them any tools or equipment they need and show them how to use it
• Show them how to log in, set up, or access any resources they need

Tours and inner workings of your business

• Organise a tour of the workplace, including facilities and amenities like the kitchen, toilets, and lockers
• Give them a health and safety briefing
• Give them a snapshot of the history of your business
• Educate them about your customers and your products or services
• Share the company’s culture and values
• Explain why their role is important and how it fits into your business
• Go over the specifics of the job, including a clear explanation of duties and responsibilities and any expectations that need to be set from day one
• Describe any goals they need to meet
• Workplace policies and practices
• The pay process
• The performance review process
• Any trial or probation period
• Any employee benefits and perks
• The process for resolving employee problems

Checklist 4: Ongoing

Check on your new employee for the first few days and weeks.

• Chat with them regularly to see how they’re going, answer any questions they have, and address any difficulties they’re experiencing.
• Assign them a buddy, partner, or mentor who can help them get acquainted with the role