As you open the door to new staff, don't wait too long before establishing clear protocols. Cover these key items to ensure employees' strong start.

1. Define critical milestones, deliverables, and deadlines.

Reiterate the meaning of the work and your expectations for the deliverables, including quality, speed, and amount of time spent. Setting those guidelines early will help workers understand what you expect of them in their new roles.

2. Maintain open lines of communication.

Successful onboarding—especially in virtual or hybrid workplaces—entails establishing ground rules for communication, including expectations of the means and frequency with which you will communicate.

3. Provide detailed feedback.

Once a new hire completes their first milestone, give them specific feedback so they can better understand your needs and produce on-point, high-value work.