Onboarding techniques that work

KyleJepson
HubSpot Employee
HubSpot Employee

Most sales jobs have very little onboarding. The new rep might get a little bit of instruction and get to do a "ride-along" with an experienced team member, but then they're usually put on the frontlines and left to fend for themselves. Have a story of an onboarding experience that went well? Share it in the comments below!

 

*To learn more about this, check out the Secrets of Sales Onboarding Success lesson via HubSpot Academy. 

50 Réponses 50
FCordero5
Membre

 the onboarding techniques that really work are the ones that make people feel welcomed, supported, and clear on what success looks like. I like to start with a structured plan—clear goals, timelines, and resources—so there’s no confusion. Pairing new hires with a buddy or mentor helps them feel connected right away, and regular check-ins give space to ask questions and build confidence. It’s not just about training—it’s about creating a smooth, empowering experience that sets the tone for long-term engagement and growth.

RoRoo30
Membre

Helping new hires feel accepted, secure, and equipped to thrive in their positions is the main goal of effective onboarding strategies. Offering a well-organized onboarding plan with precise objectives, timetables, and training sessions for the first few weeks is an excellent strategy. This lessens confusion and helps new hires know what to expect.

RRonquillo
Membre

Effective onboarding techniques include providing clear guidance, mentorship, and hands-on training to help new employees adjust quickly. Creating a welcoming and supportive environment also boosts their confidence and engagement from the start.

0 Votes
Labakadu
Contributeur

I think roleplaying a scenario would be a good stepping stone.

0 Votes
BSpencer3
Membre

I'm a big fan of ride alongs and call shadowing with your best reps. I'm not necessarily saying it has to be top earners but your best reps that show the skills and present the company's best values. Seeing it in action always helps with getting up to speed.

achapin1
Membre

I am always trying to walk them through every stage of process, so we can be on the same page "how it works"

RAttia
Participant

قم بإجراء البحث الخاص بك، واحصل على التدريب المناسب، وتدرب من أجل الاستعداد للمهام

ATimofeev
Participant

I am always trying to walk them through every stage of process, so we can be on the same page "how it works"

Also, for every stage I have an instruction, like a hint, so anyone (even me) can take a look and see how it should be done

0 Votes
marcoorozco23
Membre

do your research, get the right coaching, and practice in order to prepare for possible tasks.

AHasnain
Membre

Since I'm managing large sales team deputed at various locations, I initially tell new joiners to listen to seniors while they are engaging with their customers on call or f2f and catch the best part you like & put it in your sales script. For the internal process learning, I encourage them to close their first deal so they will learn even if they make mistakes while onboarding the customer. Also I do sales coaching in groups and one on one, I use my examples for their motivation and to handle client queries. My punch line quote is "no does not means never". This is how I train the new comers. 

SAli595
Participant

I used to practice mock calls with my manager before getting on board. 

0 Votes
CBlandini
Membre

Getting the reps in and shawdowing colleges as much as possible. 

CSheriff
Membre

Yes, when I was working for Walmart I was able to shadow an expereinced worker for as long as I needed to ensure I could run the register correctly. Once I was put on my own I needed no hand holding and made no errors. I learn very well by seeing success and then adapting to my own version of that method. It is always important to follow the sales steps in the correct order but also to be one's self. 

Dyrrachium
Membre

I remember a good onboarding experience where new sales reps were given thorough training and paired with experienced team members for shadowing. They didn't just learn about the product; they saw it in action. Plus, they had mentors to guide them and provide feedback along the way. It made starting out feel less overwhelming. The key: being part of a supportive team right from the beginning!

ReginaRZ
Participant

Shadowing other reps

0 Votes
MStockton6
Membre

I think one on one coaching is effective!

JValdez3
Membre

In my opinion my favorite onboard coaching technique is one on one coaching.

0 Votes
nikeh1
Membre

One on one coaching 

0 Votes
IMercado
Membre

An onboarding technique that works is working with someone one on one.

0 Votes
RMullen
Membre

Part of my role in my last Sales Manager position, I onboarded and trained new reps as part of a new Sales department. This included visual PowerPoints with information as well as guided worksheets to practice using that information. I tried to make the learning enjoyable by making Jeopardy games to quiz their knowledge as well as Inbound Sales Bingo to mark off certain calls.