Facilities Pilot Buddy Program 2020 Goals: Attract, Retain & Reward Top People Office of Human Resources July 16, 2014

The Buddy Program : Onboarding A buddy program is a means of welcoming and encouraging new employees to help them in their first few months and up to 1 year to build a personal connection with Clemson University. A “Buddy” can contribute to the success of a newly hired employee by……. 1.Scheduling regular contact, such as lunch, coffee, and phone calls 2.Sharing insights about “how things are done around campus” 3.Discussing why you like working here and the Clemson culture, and 4.Answering questions and providing resources.

What Does it Take? Key Characteristics of a Buddy: Communicator Role Model Motivated Strong Performer

Purpose : To help welcome new employees and reaffirm their decision to join our Clemson family. It provides new employees with a reliable, motivated, single point-of-contact for their basic questions regarding their work experience at Clemson. It also helps establish orientation as a process of onboarding, rather than a single learning event. Why Have a Buddy?

Buddy Program Advantages: Having a Buddy program offers significant advantages for the new employee, Clemson, and the Buddy. Why Have a Buddy?

For the New Employee: One-on-one assistance Jump-start on networking Single point-of-contact; and Smooth transition into the department and onboarding period. For the Buddy: Opportunity to encourage and engage others Enhanced leadership and communication skills; and Recognition as a strong performer / team player Buddy Program Advantages

For Clemson: Increased employee satisfaction and retention Increased employee communication Enhanced employee development Enhanced quality work processes; and Increased employee producti vity

Buddy Selection Criteria Selection should be based on the following characteristics: Demonstrates strong performance Is given time to be accessible to the new employee Proud of Clemson University A peer of the new employee Patient; good communication and interpersonal skills Wants to be a buddy Well regarded and accepted by current employees.

Buddy Responsibilities Contact and meet with the new employee on Day 1 Establish rapport with the new employee Have lunch with the new employee at least once a month Act as an informational resource on policies and procedures Helps socialize the new employee to Clemson’s guidelines, norms, and culture Answer general / routine questions Follow up with the new employee on a weekly basis.

Tips for Buddies Be patient: It takes time to develop a relationship. Don’t try to cover everything right away. Be positive: New employees will grow into their roles if given proper reinforcement. Don’t be judgmental….simply offer feedback.

Buddy Resources Buddy Program Checklist Employee Interest Sheet