As the final quarter of 2023 rapidly approaches, employers are already looking ahead to 2024 with anticipation and preparation. For companies aiming to remain competitive in the next year and beyond, prioritising a digital-focused strategy for hiring, onboarding, and leading employees is crucial.

The digital imperative

In the modern age, digital fluency is no longer just a ‘good-to-have‘ skill. It’s a necessity. Businesses have come to rely on technology for every aspect of their operation, from marketing and sales to customer service and internal communication. For this reason, hiring candidates with a strong digital competency and ensuring they’re onboarded effectively is vital.

Hiring with a digital lens

When recruiting, have you considered:

  1. Skills Assessment: Beyond the traditional CV scan, use tools and platforms to assess a candidate’s digital competency. Consider simulations or tasks that evaluate their ability to use key software or navigate online platforms relevant to your industry.
  2. Cultural Fit: Digital aptitude is important, but so is a candidate’s ability to fit within your company’s culture. Look for adaptability, a growth mindset, and a genuine interest in technological evolution.

Connecting your people with digital onboarding

A robust onboarding process is the bridge between hiring and long-term employee retention. Research indicates that organisations with a strong onboarding process are up to 11x more likely to retain their new hires beyond the first year.

Digital-focused onboarding should:

  1. Incorporate e-learning: Utilise platforms that allow new hires to learn at their own pace, ensuring they absorb crucial information.
  2. Promote collaboration: Use digital tools that foster team collaboration. This makes new employees feel connected even if they’re working remotely.
  3. Gather feedback: Digital feedback tools can help new hires communicate their experiences, allowing for continuous improvement of the onboarding process.

Leading in a Digital World

Digital First, But People Always: While the tools and platforms you use are digital, the people using them are not. Always prioritise human connection. Virtual team-building, regular check-ins, and open channels of communication are essential.

Continuous Learning: The digital landscape evolves rapidly. Encourage your teams to upskill regularly. This not only benefits your business but also fosters a culture of growth and development.

Security is Paramount: With the rise of digital operations comes the increased risk of cyber threats. Ensure all team members, especially new hires, are trained in cybersecurity best practices.

How we help

Having the right technology in place is the cornerstone of a digital-forward strategy. At Simon, we support employers in integrating these digital tools and platforms seamlessly into their operations. Our powerful employee experience platform helps you set up easy and repeatable journeys you can assign to your team at any point in the employee lifecycle.

Conclusion

2024 promises exciting opportunities for businesses ready to embrace the digital age fully. By hiring digitally competent employees, onboarding them effectively, and leading with a blend of technology and humanity, employers are setting themselves up for success in the coming year and beyond.

For tailored digital solutions to support your business needs, reach out to us. Your digital future awaits!