Need some Buddy?

Accustoming new employees is one of the biggest challenges for HR departments these days.

Remote and hybrid models of work drastically changed the attitude towards the onboarding process. When we think about breaking in a new team member, we have to remember it is not only formalities and procedures, but most important is an introduction to the employer’s organizational structure and building relationships with the team.

At HL Tech we love challenges and constantly looking for new improvements. We know how important is the mood we create together as a team – #thatsthespirIT! That’s why within our ranks we have people who make sure you will feel at home from day one!

You might need some Buddy and #YouDeserveIT!

But first, who is Buddy?

First day at new work is usually considered to be stressful and filled with anxiety. Luckily there is someone, who is there to change the perspective – someone who keeps ear to the ground :)

Buddy is a dedicated guide, who not only shows around office corridors, but most importantly around formalities – someone who helps with project’s documentation and technical stuff. :)

With a Buddy you can feel comfortable! Do you remember your first lunch at your new company? Usually a lonely meal, because you don’t know anyone. At HL Tech there is someone waiting for you – your Buddy! You can be sure they will show you how to handle a coffee machine (feels like the same one everywhere, although it works differently in every office) and will introduce you to every other important aspect of company’s life.

Your guide is also your treasury of knowledge in terms of office habits. Who is the fastest at lunch orders and who owns the throne of company jokes? Buddy knows it all and is happy to share this knowledge.

The hardest first step is much easier with a Buddy! And from the experience, we know such relationships do not end with an introduction. :)

So what about our programme say those, who benefited from the help of a Buddy?

You’ve Got a Friend in Me

Igor Południkiewicz – Junior Software Engineer (Java)

Igor’s work at HL Tech is his first experience in the IT industry. It’s not surprising he had many questions and uncertainties related to organizational work and tools, as well as some customs and habits.

Simply knowing I’ll be presented with a Buddy during the onboarding process calmed me down, as I knew I won’t be thrown into deep end.

How was Igor’s first day at work? It started with a lunch with a Buddy during which they could have an informal conversation about HL Tech’s nuances. Later on it was only better as every challenge – smaller or bigger – they have been sorting out together.

It reminds me of the process of learning to ride a bike, when you drop the side wheels and keep on going with a guardian behind you. The fun from the ride, wind in your hair and the speed, caused that only after a longer period of time did I realize my guardian let me loose, was far behind and for the first time I was going on two wheels all by myself. – says Igor Południkiewicz

Every Buddy

How does it look from Buddy’s point of view? We ask Maciej Parapura – Java Developer, who helped Igor with his first steps at HL Tech.

They met on Igor’s first day at work. Relaxed atmosphere during a morning coffee immediately helped them get to know something about each other. Moments later Igor received his hardware and together asked for office access codes. This friendly introduction provided Igor with the comfort of moving around the space and the opportunity to attain knowledge on the company’s operation. He learned the work strategy, technologies in use, but most importantly – the team which greeted him with a friendly attitude. Altogether it made his onboarding experience much less stressful!

Buddy’s role bridges the gap between newcomer and the team, causing new employees to feel cared for and not left on their own. When they start work they feel someone is watching over them and that there is someone they can always count on whenever they need. – Maciej recalls.

It’s good to have a Buddy

Buddy programme is a key onboarding element at HL Tech. It helps to sort out the initial information chaos and introduces to the company’s system of operation. Understanding a new work environment and getting to know the processes helps to feel confident and maximize one’s satisfaction from early days.
Buddy programme is also a way to develop interpersonal skills and a chance to identify potential leaders and mentors.

At HL Tech we are a team – That’s the spirit!