Integration/Open discussion

There has been a general concern about how to integrate new staff into the workplace, especially workers with different backgrounds to the existing team. This has also applied to the integration of staff as they were promoted and moved into a new team.

The integration of staff at all levels requires a structured and informed process in which existing staff are involved. An easy and effective way is to ensure the induction programme for new staff includes integration processes. This could be through a formalised meet and greet for the new staff member, with an informal 'first lunch' provided for new staff to meet existing staff, to an ongoing buddying system.

Equally there should be systems in place to ensure existing staff memberes are aware and accepting of the new person. Open communication about team dynamics, where the new person fits into the team and roles, will all help integrating the new person and aiding cohesion.