Acculturating and embedding new hires in a hybrid work environment

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for talent acquisition, management, and retention within organisations, shedding light on the vulnerabilities of traditional office-based onboarding strategies. This study delves into the adaptive measures taken by organisations in South Africa to reshape their onboarding strategies in response to the emergence of a hybrid work environment in the post-COVID era. This exploratory research focuses on the acculturation and embedding of new hires in a hybrid work setting through a comprehensive literature review, qualitative data collection via interviews with human resources practitioners and newly onboarded employees, and subsequent thematic analysis. The study aims to draw meaningful conclusions from this multifaceted investigation. The study’s finding reveals that, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, only a minority of companies in South Africa had developed specific strategies for onboarding within a hybrid work environment. However, in the aftermath of the pandemic, a significant shift occurred as most organisations began to design and implement onboarding strategies tailored to the hybrid work model. These strategies garnered particular attention among younger, technologically savvy employees, reflecting the adaptability of the emerging workforce. Furthermore, the study uncovers the adverse consequences of hybrid working on new hires, notably encompassing mental health concerns and challenges in adapting socially to a corporate environment. These challenges underscore the importance of holistic onboarding strategies that consider not only technical aspects but also the psychological and social well-being of new employees. In addition to these key findings, the research sheds light on potential areas of future exploration, recognising the evolving nature of hybrid working. The study provides valuable insights for organisations seeking to adapt their onboarding strategies in an evolving work landscape and offers a foundation for further research.