{"id":73627,"date":"2026-05-14T12:28:58","date_gmt":"2026-05-14T10:28:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/?p=73627"},"modified":"2026-05-22T12:44:21","modified_gmt":"2026-05-22T10:44:21","slug":"employee-onboarding-process","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/employee-onboarding-process\/","title":{"rendered":"The ultimate employee onboarding guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/category\/people-leadership\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">People &amp; Leadership<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe ultimate employee onboarding guide\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tShaping a workforce that fully embraces your company mission starts with captivating the talent you\u2019ve worked so hard to recruit. A solid employee onboarding experience is the first step in this process.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-14T12:28:58+02:00\">May 14, 2026<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"The ultimate employee onboarding guide\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/employee-onboarding-process\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/author\/timcooper\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/11\/tim-cooper.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" height=\"40\" width=\"40\" fetchpriority=\"high\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Tim Cooper<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-sage-container is-constrained\"><div class=\"sage-container__inner\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-takeaways\">Key takeaways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Employee onboarding is a strategic business lever, not an admin task.<\/strong> When done well, onboarding improves early retention, accelerates productivity, and strengthens long-term engagement by helping employees feel valued and aligned from day one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Effective onboarding starts before day one and continues well beyond the first week.<\/strong> Pre-boarding, clear role expectations, structured early weeks, and regular check-ins help new hires build confidence and settle in faster.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Personal connection and role clarity matter as much as processes and paperwork. <\/strong>Introductions, culture-setting, ongoing feedback, and understanding individual learning styles are critical to integration and performance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology can support consistency, compliance, and scale\u2014without replacing the human touch.<\/strong> Onboarding software helps automate administration, support remote and hybrid staff, and free up time for meaningful conversations that drive engagement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>For a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), employee onboarding may seem like an admin chore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But a strong induction process can hugely impact staff retention and productivity, making it a critical performance driver in your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite this, a high percentage of firms still have poor onboarding processes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Only a third receive strong executive support for onboarding initiatives, suggesting there\u2019s a big opportunity to improve them and gain competitive advantage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This advantage could be even greater in SMEs, where the impacts of onboarding experiences are amplified due to the smaller number of employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s delve into how you can improve the onboarding process to boost your business goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s what we\u2019ll cover:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-the-employee-onboarding-process\" data-level=\"2\">What is the employee onboarding process?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-11-steps-to-cover-during-the-onboarding-process\" data-level=\"2\">11 steps to cover during the onboarding process<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-why-efficient-employee-onboarding-is-important\" data-level=\"2\">Why efficient employee onboarding is important<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-employee-onboarding-best-practices\" data-level=\"2\">Employee onboarding best practices<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-practical-considerations-of-onboarding-new-employees-in-south-africa\" data-level=\"2\">Practical considerations of onboarding new employees in South Africa<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-to-consider-when-onboarding-remote-and-hybrid-employees\" data-level=\"2\">What to consider when onboarding remote and hybrid employees<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-employee-onboarding-software-can-enhance-the-process\" data-level=\"2\">How employee onboarding software can enhance the process<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts-make-onboarding-a-holistic-experience\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts: Make onboarding a holistic experience<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-frequently-asked-questions-faqs\" data-level=\"2\">Frequently asked questions (FAQs)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-employee-onboarding-process\">What is the employee onboarding process?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Employee onboarding is the process of introducing a new recruit to your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It helps them understand how the business works, your culture, purpose, environment, and working methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Onboarding should help joiners feel a sense of belonging\u2014welcomed, valued, and ready for success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But it\u2019s also the first step in protecting your investment in that employee and driving a high-performing workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employees who feel integrated and aligned with your purpose from day one are more likely to stay long term, and to be as engaged and productive as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A robust onboarding process for SMEs can also:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Enhance your brand<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attract top talent<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthen your culture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve staff wellbeing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So rather than viewing onboarding as just a compliance formality or administrative checklist, treat it as a strategy to gain a competitive advantage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">E-Book: The HR and Payroll Leaders&#8217; Report<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Valuable insights, practical advice, and next steps for HR and payroll professionals in South Africa.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-6f8fe0df-9f35-4703-b531-fe28d2623634\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Read the report<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-1200x810.jpeg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"A woman looks to camera with the Sage glow line in the background.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-1200x810.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-11-steps-to-cover-during-the-onboarding-process\">11 steps to cover during the onboarding process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A good onboarding experience doesn\u2019t start on day one. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It begins the moment your offer is accepted\u2014and it should continue long after your new hire\u2019s first week. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how to build an onboarding journey that works for your business and your people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-prepare-before-they-arrive-set-up-pre-boarding\">1. Prepare before they arrive: set up pre-boarding<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start strong by getting everything ready before your new hire\u2019s first day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make sure their manager is briefed and has a plan for their initial weeks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Send a warm message or welcome gift to build excitement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appoint a buddy for informal support, social introductions and day-to-day advice. The buddy should be someone outside the starter\u2019s direct team but close enough to offer helpful context.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tell the wider team there\u2019s a new person coming and make space for a positive first impression.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get the new person\u2019s contract and paperwork sorted early\u2014this prepares you for point 2.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set up their desk, tools and access.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-handle-the-paperwork-early\">2. Handle the paperwork early<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>On or before day one, deliver the starter their written statement of employment and contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The statement\u2014sometimes called a statement of particulars\u2014is a legal document that sets out key details like their job title, pay, working hours, and notice period. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a simplified version of the employment contract, which covers rights, responsibilities, and obligations in more depth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cA written statement is a legal must\u2014but it can also be a great way to set clear expectations, reinforce company values, and ensure transparency in the relationship,\u201d says Anthony Sutton, director of Cream HR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Share your employee handbook if you have one. That way, the starter can understand your processes, people and policies in their own time. With digital copies it\u2019s easier to store them and refer back later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-explain-benefits-and-pensions-clearly\">3. Explain benefits and pensions clearly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure your new hire understands their pension and wider benefits package. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Explain these benefits to the new employee, and how the pension system works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a chance to promote their financial wellbeing and long-term planning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cover any deadlines for signing up and let them know where to go for help or questions. Be clear, concise and helpful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-help-them-connect-set-up-introductions\">4. Help them connect: set up introductions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Anthony says introducing newcomers to your departments helps them understand how each function works in relation to the others, and how their role fits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To support a high-performance culture, he recommends using Gallup\u2019s \u201c12 points for worker engagement\u201d, especially the points about helping employees understand:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What they are here for<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What tools and equipment will help them succeed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What opportunities they have to fulfil their role.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Gallup also stresses the importance of workers receiving praise, recognition, care and encouragement to develop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, move beyond policies and paperwork to help new colleagues feel excited about the role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make the conversations personal to help the new employee feel valued and integrated. Arrange informal meet-and-greets and encourage casual chats like coffee breaks or team lunches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-provide-a-clear-orientation-and-role-overview\">5. Provide a clear orientation and role overview<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start with a health and safety briefing, whether they\u2019re in the office or working remotely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then clearly explain their role, responsibilities, and where they can find support or resources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This helps reduce confusion and gives them confidence in their day-to-day tasks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Setting clear expectations early is key to building a strong foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-learn-what-makes-this-person-different\">6. Learn what makes this person different<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAnother Gallup point is about whether the manager is genuinely interested in the employee\u2019s professional development and as a person,\u201d says Anthony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cOnboarding provides a great opportunity to show that interest. I also always ask the recruit if they know their preferred learning style \u2013 visual, auditory, reading, writing or kinaesthetic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThis helps you adapt your support to meet their needs.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ask about their career goals and interests, to show you care about more than just output.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Frequent check-ins during the first year are a great way to gather their thoughts on what\u2019s working and what isn\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-create-a-structure-for-their-first-weeks\">7. Create a structure for their first weeks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t leave them guessing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Map out their first few weeks with clear goals, training sessions and meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Schedule daily check-ins for week one, then taper to weekly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Share a three-month plan with achievable milestones, ideally based on projects that offer early wins. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use feedback from the check-ins to spot issues early and keep progress on track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-give-them-the-tools-to-grow\">8. Give them the tools to grow<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t wait until month six to talk about training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start early by showing how they can develop and progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Introduce learning platforms, mentorships and growth paths. Involve them in cross-functional projects where they can learn new skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This links their work to long-term goals, helping them stay engaged and motivated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-9-use-technology-to-support-the-process\">9. Use technology to support the process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/human-resources\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>HR software<\/strong><\/a> can take a lot off your plate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Automate admin tasks like setting up systems access, sending contracts and assigning tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use cloud tools to share induction content and track progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Set up digital employee files for easy access. Some platforms include chatbots for FAQs and self-service. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This frees up time for meaningful conversations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-keep-culture-front-and-centre\">10. Keep culture front and centre<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t assume new hires will absorb your culture on their own. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be explicit about your values and working style. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use storytelling, team meetings and real-life examples to bring your culture to life. Show how teams collaborate, how people are recognised and how feedback works. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make your values real, not just words on a wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-11-keep-improving-your-onboarding-process\">11. Keep improving your onboarding process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Great onboarding evolves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Send short surveys at key points\u201415, 30, 60 and 90 days. Ask what helped and what didn\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Compare with other new hires\u2019 responses and use the input to improve the process. Track metrics like time to productivity, engagement and employee retention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If someone changes roles within the company, that is a valid case for onboarding again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It can be a streamlined version of first-timer onboarding but requires the same care and structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">E-Book: The HR and Payroll Leaders&#8217; Report<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Valuable insights, practical advice, and next steps for HR and payroll professionals in South Africa.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-6f8fe0df-9f35-4703-b531-fe28d2623634\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Read the report<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-1200x810.jpeg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"A woman looks to camera with the Sage glow line in the background.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-1200x810.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-efficient-employee-onboarding-is-important\">Why efficient employee onboarding is important<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When done well, employee onboarding helps new staff feel welcomed, supported and confident from day one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This positive start increases their engagement with the company, making them more motivated and committed to their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s look at the deeper implications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-early-retention\">Early retention<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Engaged employees are more likely to stay longer, significantly reducing early turnover rates. In fact, studies show that optimal onboarding can boost employee retention rates by upwards of 82%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, new hires are twice as likely to look for a new job if they don\u2019t enjoy the onboarding experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This also helps you avoid the costly recruitment and training efforts associated with frequent turnover, as replacing an employee can cost between 50% and 200% of their salary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faster-productivity-amp-role-clarity\">Faster productivity &amp; role clarity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Good onboarding also helps newcomers understand their role clearly, how processes function within the organisation, and how their contributions fit into the broader business goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This clear guidance fast-tracks their ability to become productive members of the team, enabling them to start contributing effectively much sooner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It provides a crucial \u201chigh-learning, low-stakes period\u201d for skill acquisition and familiarisation with your tools and processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-building-trust-amp-community\">Building trust &amp; community<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond covering the essential job tasks, efficient onboarding is pivotal for fostering a sense of community and trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It sets the tone for your company culture from the very beginning, helping new hires feel they are truly part of the team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This process creates the foundation for meaningful professional and personal relationships within the workplace, preventing new employees from feeling isolated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-strengthening-company-culture\">Strengthening company culture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Onboarding serves as the primary introduction to your company\u2019s unique culture and values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When new hires connect with and understand the organisational ethos\u2014whether it\u2019s collaborative learning, output-orientation, or open communication\u2014it strengthens their alignment with the company\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Disengaged employees <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gallup.com\/workplace\/393497\/world-trillion-workplace-problem.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>cost the global economy $8.8 trillion a year<\/strong><\/a> (\u00a37 trillion), or 9% of GDP, according to Gallup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Engagement impacts all 11 of the performance measures Gallup looked at. But multiple studies show one of the main business processes that impacts engagement is onboarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Companies with mature induction processes, for example, are up to 103% more likely to improve employee retention and engagement, according to <a href=\"https:\/\/brandonhall.com\/creating-an-effective-onboarding-learning-experience-strategies-for-success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Brandon Hall Group\u2019s 2024 Effective Onboarding study<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-employee-onboarding-best-practices\">Employee onboarding best practices<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To maximise the positive impact of your onboarding programme, consider these guiding principles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-develop-a-clear-vision-and-mission\">Develop a clear vision and mission<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Define the overarching goals and purpose of your onboarding process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What do you want new hires to achieve and feel during their initial period?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A clear vision guides all subsequent actions and ensures consistency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-prioritise-automation-and-digitalisation\">Prioritise automation and digitalisation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Take advantage of HR software and digital tools to automate repetitive administrative tasks like paperwork, system access, and reminders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This gives your HR team and managers more time to turn their attention to the onboarding process itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, they can check that it fulfils new employees\u2019 needs while incorporating them smoothly and consistently into the team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-embrace-personalisation\">Embrace personalisation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Recognise that one size doesn\u2019t fit all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tailor aspects of the onboarding experience\u2014from learning materials to introductions\u2014to the individual\u2019s role and specific needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes the experience more relevant and engaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-clear-and-consistent-communication\">Clear and consistent communication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Establish a regular cadence of honest and transparent communication throughout the entire onboarding journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This includes setting clear expectations and creating an open environment where new hires feel comfortable asking questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This facilitates continuous feedback that allows you to identify pain points, adapt the process in real-time, and demonstrate that your organisation values their input<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ensure-role-clarity-and-alignment\">Ensure role clarity and alignment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure new hires clearly understand their specific responsibilities, performance expectations, and how their role contributes directly to the team and company\u2019s strategic goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-promote-continuous-learning-and-development\">Promote continuous learning and development<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Onboarding doesn\u2019t stop after the first few weeks. Emphasise a culture of continuous learning, providing access to ongoing training, skill development opportunities, and discussions about long-term career progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-measure-and-optimise\">Measure and optimise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Regularly track key onboarding metrics (e.g., early retention rates, time to productivity, new hire satisfaction scores).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use this data to assess the effectiveness of your programme, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven adjustments to optimise the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-consider-crossboarding\">Consider crossboarding<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Extend the principles of effective onboarding to existing employees transitioning into new roles within the company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These \u201ccrossboarded\u201d employees also benefit from role clarity and cultural assimilation into their new teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">E-Book: The HR and Payroll Leaders&#8217; Report<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Valuable insights, practical advice, and next steps for HR and payroll professionals in South Africa.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-6f8fe0df-9f35-4703-b531-fe28d2623634\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Read the report<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-1200x810.jpeg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"A woman looks to camera with the Sage glow line in the background.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-1200x810.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-practical-considerations-of-onboarding-new-employees-in-south-africa\">Practical considerations of onboarding new employees in South Africa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are various <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/human-resources\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HR<\/a> <\/strong>and<strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/payroll-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Payroll<\/a><\/strong> tasks that are specific to South African companies when onboarding staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some important things to consider and do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>In South Africa, you need to verify the employee\u2019s legal right to work,<\/strong> then gather essential information such as full name, address, date of birth, gender if necessary, South African ID number, and their tax reference number.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Set employees up on your payroll system<\/strong> and follow the correct statutory procedures. This includes registering the employee for Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) if they are not already registered<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If this is your first employee<\/strong>, ensure you are registered as an employer with SARS (unless none of your employees will be liable for tax) and the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). You must also register with the Compensation Fund for workers\u2019 compensation. While employers\u2019 liability insurance is not a legal requirement in South Africa, it is strongly recommended for additional protection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensure compliance with South African labour laws<\/strong>, including the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA). This covers employment contracts, working hours, remuneration, leave entitlements, and termination of employment notice periods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comply with the Employment Equity Act<\/strong>, which prohibits unfair discrimination and requires reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities or health conditions to ensure inclusivity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA)<\/strong> when handling employee data. Inform employees about what personal information is collected, why it\u2019s needed, how it will be used and stored, and how long it will be retained. Employees have the right to access and correct their data.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check if the employee must be enrolled in a retirement fund<\/strong>, especially if your company has a pension or provident fund policy in place. While automatic enrolment is not mandatory, it may be part of your employment contract or bargaining council agreement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Provide a safe and healthy working environment <\/strong>in line with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). After making a job offer, ask whether the employee has any disabilities or health conditions that may require adjustments to the workplace, equipment, or work practices. This ensures compliance and supports an inclusive workplace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-to-consider-when-onboarding-remote-and-hybrid-employees\">What to consider when onboarding remote and hybrid employees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Remote and hybrid recruits can find it more challenging to feel part of the business than those who are based in the workplace every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They miss out on personal interactions and may have more difficulty getting support and information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For these employees, a highly structured and intentional approach is key:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Set clear expectations<\/strong> around communication channels (e.g., dedicated chat platforms, video conferencing), availability, and collaboration tools. Be mindful of potential \u201cZoom fatigue\u201d and encourage asynchronous communication where appropriate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Actively look for ways to build engagement and relationships digitally<\/strong> or, where possible, through planned in-person events. This includes regular check-ins with buddies and managers, invitations to virtual team socials, informal online get-togethers, and virtual introductory meetings with key colleagues. Consider encouraging personalised video introductions from the new hire and team members.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensure equal access <\/strong>to all company resources, training materials, and benefits, including mental health and wellbeing support, from day one. This means providing virtual access to all necessary documents, knowledge bases, and learning platforms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Confirm that all necessary equipment (laptops, monitors, internet connectivity support if applicable) is set up<\/strong> and working correctly before their start date, with readily available IT support for troubleshooting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Provide defined learning tracks<\/strong> and ensure role-specific training can be accessed remotely. Encourage self-paced learning and on-the-job training opportunities even in a remote setting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Actively encourage healthy boundaries between work and personal life.<\/strong> Remote employees don\u2019t observe their colleagues leaving the office and might find it harder to switch off.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensure you have inclusive policies<\/strong> that don\u2019t inadvertently favour employees who are solely based in the physical workplace, ensuring fairness in opportunities, development, and recognition for all.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-employee-onboarding-software-can-enhance-the-process\">How employee onboarding software can enhance the process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a lot to do when new staff join, but employee <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/human-resources\/onboarding\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>onboarding software<\/strong><\/a> can make the process much quicker and easier, offering a consistent and scalable experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, it can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Automate repetitive administrative<\/strong> tasks like sending out welcome messages, assigning forms, and collecting digital signatures, drastically reducing manual workload and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements by securely storing all completed documents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Predefine workflows and induction tasks<\/strong>, allowing segment workflow by department or sub-team, for example. This ensures that new hires and line managers are immediately aware of their responsibilities and expected actions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Create a more engaging and user-friendly experience<\/strong> through cloud-based information hubs, accessible employee self-service portals, and automated welcome messages. This can provide a sense of belonging and make new hires feel valued from day one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Track new hires with seamless progress reports<\/strong>, providing HR and managers with real-time analytics. This allows them to track completion rates, identify bottlenecks, and ensure no steps are missed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enable self-service access to information new hires may require<\/strong>, such as policies and training materials. If they can access whenever they need it this fosters independence and allows them to learn at their own pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Support remote and hybrid setups<\/strong> by providing new employees with virtual access to everything they need, regardless of their location.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensure a standardised onboarding process<\/strong> for all new hires, maintaining quality across the organisation. As companies grow, this software can easily scale to accommodate a larger number of new hires without significant additional resources.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Anthony says: \u201cSmall businesses often don\u2019t have a dedicated HR professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cOnboarding software can help save time, centralising administration and providing HR-based support in areas where the owner or manager may have limited expertise.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts-make-onboarding-a-holistic-experience\">Final thoughts: Make onboarding a holistic experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Onboarding is not solely an HR or compliance task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your aim is to make it a holistic experience that shapes the future of your employees and your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By investing in the right mix of technology, human touch, and culture-building, you can create an onboarding process that supports and inspires new recruits, while helping you make crucial gains in retention, engagement and productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions-faqs\">Frequently asked questions (FAQs)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778754344524\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is employee onboarding and why is it important?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><br>Employee onboarding is the process of introducing new hires to your business, including your culture, ways of working, and expectations. <br><br>A strong onboarding experience helps employees feel welcomed and supported, reduces early turnover, and enables them to become productive more quickly. <br><br>It also protects your investment in new talent by improving long-term engagement and retention.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778754376496\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When should the onboarding process begin?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><br>Onboarding should begin as soon as a job offer is accepted, not on the employee\u2019s first day. <br><br>Early preparation\u2014such as setting up paperwork, tools, access, and clear plans for the first few weeks\u2014creates a positive first impression and reduces uncertainty for new starters.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778754397639\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the most important elements of a successful onboarding experience?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><br>Successful onboarding combines clear role expectations, structured early support, regular check-ins, and opportunities for personal connection. <br><br>Introducing new hires to colleagues, explaining how their role fits into the wider business, and reinforcing company culture all help employees feel confident and included.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778754418343\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How does onboarding support employee retention and productivity?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><br>Employees who experience effective onboarding are more likely to stay with an organisation and reach full productivity sooner. <br><br>Clear guidance, early feedback, and consistent support reduce confusion, build trust, and create a strong sense of belonging from the outset.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778754441764\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can onboarding software improve the onboarding process?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><br>Yes. <br><br>Onboarding software can streamline administrative tasks, standardise workflows, and provide easy access to information for new hires. <br><br>This is particularly helpful for small businesses, as it saves time and ensures consistency while allowing managers to focus on building relationships and supporting employee development.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Editor&#8217;s note: This article was originally published in June 2025 and has been updated for relevance.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice enewsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Get a roundup of our best business advice in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-84fe79b5-668d-41f8-a0cc-6229018c4ac9\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1181404518-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1181404518-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/tag\/business-management\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tbusiness management\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/tag\/employing-people-for-the-first-time\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\temploying people for the first time\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/tag\/hr-payroll\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHR &amp; Payroll\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/tag\/trending-topics\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\ttrending topics\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-76331 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-trends-insights tag-accountants tag-audit tag-bookkeeping tag-business-intelligence tag-business-management tag-profit-loss tag-staying-competitive tag-tax business_type-small-business business_type-medium-business business_type-accountants card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1064\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/04\/GettyImages-175138802_super-1064x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/04\/GettyImages-175138802_super-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/04\/GettyImages-175138802_super-768x585.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/04\/GettyImages-175138802_super-1064x810.jpg 1064w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-04T11:51:14+02:00\">June 4, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/accounts-payable-process\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWhat is the accounts payable process? Steps, workflow and how to improve it\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tLearn more about the accounts payable process and the power of AP automation to streamline accounts payable workflow and improve cash flow control.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-76286 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-trends-insights tag-accountants tag-bookkeeping tag-business-intelligence tag-data-analysis tag-financial-insights tag-making-financial-decisions tag-profit-loss tag-trending-topics business_type-small-business business_type-medium-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/accounts-payable-reconciliation\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2021\/11\/HR-and-Payroll-image--684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2021\/11\/HR-and-Payroll-image--684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2021\/11\/HR-and-Payroll-image--768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2021\/11\/HR-and-Payroll-image--1213x810.jpg 1213w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-22T12:28:04+02:00\">May 22, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">9 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tThe ultimate guide to accounts payable reconciliation\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-76271 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-trends-insights tag-accountants tag-bookkeeping tag-business-intelligence tag-data-analysis tag-profit-loss tag-trending-topics business_type-small-business business_type-medium-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/accrued-expenses-vs-accounts-payable\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1252669747-2-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"people in office\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1252669747-2-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1252669747-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1252669747-2-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-22T11:35:30+02:00\">May 22, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tAccrued expenses vs accounts payable: Key differences\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-76152 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accountants tag-bookkeeping tag-business-management tag-financial-insights tag-making-financial-decisions tag-profit-loss business_type-small-business business_type-medium-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/accounts-receivable-turnover-ratio-how-to-calculate-it\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1459190037-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1459190037-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1459190037-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1459190037-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-01T16:45:51+02:00\">May 1, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">12 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tAccounts receivable turnover ratio formula: definition, importance, and examples\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-76147 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-accountants tag-bookkeeping tag-business-intelligence tag-business-management business_type-small-business business_type-medium-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/accounts-payable-vs-notes-payable\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/07\/resize-1675x1275-39-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/07\/resize-1675x1275-39-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/07\/resize-1675x1275-39-768x585.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2019\/07\/resize-1675x1275-39-1064x810.jpg 1064w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-01T16:40:08+02:00\">May 1, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">9 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tNotes payable vs accounts payable: Differences and examples\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Shaping a workforce that fully embraces your company mission starts with captivating the talent you\u2019ve worked so hard to recruit. A solid employee onboarding experience is the first step in this process.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":699,"featured_media":71380,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[26],"tags":[166,332,201,214],"business_type":[2,3],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[14,16],"imagine_tag":[68,57,99,354,84,85],"coauthors":[400],"class_list":["post-73627","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-people-leadership","tag-business-management","tag-employing-people-for-the-first-time","tag-hr-payroll","tag-trending-topics","business_type-small-business","business_type-medium-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-za","author_name":"Tim Cooper","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-944060494.jpg","imagine_tags":{"68":"Grow your business","57":"HR and Payroll","99":"HR software","354":"Looking after employees","84":"Midsized business","85":"Small business"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice South Africa","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73627","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/699"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=73627"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73627\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":76302,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73627\/revisions\/76302"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/71380"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=73627"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=73627"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-za\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=73627"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}