Three Top Tips for Onboarding a Timetabling Newbie

Starting out as a timetabling newbie can feel a little bit daunting. There are so many things to get to grips with – processes, programmes, systems and routines – on top of meeting new faces and settling into a new team.

Because timetabling is such a specific job, we think there are a few specific things that can help new recruits settle in. Good timetabling is all about structure, and the same can be said of the best onboarding programmes too!

Here are our top three tips for helping your new timetablers hit their stride.

Did you know HR experts recommend the onboarding process take up to a year? There’s plenty of research to suggest that happy recruits are ones that feel supported to settle in over time.

We think this approach applies perfectly to timetabling too. It takes 12 months to experience a full academic year, so why not create an onboarding process to match? This doesn’t have to involve anything too complex – for example you could pair each newbie up with a buddy – a more experienced timetabler who is happy to be their go-to as they experience the unique challenges each semester presents for the first time.

The same buddy could also help with all the more regular onboarding bits and pieces that normally take place in the first few weeks too, like campus tours and meeting colleagues and other key stakeholders.

You might know your consolidated timetable from your class timetable, but does your newbie? Timetabling has some incredibly specific terminology and for anyone new to the role, it might all sound a bit like another language at first.

On our Timetabling New Starter course, we take new timetablers through all the terminology they’re ever likely to come across, explain the different types of timetable and (the best bit) help them build their confidence and skills with exercises to complete.

Because it’s pre-recorded they can learn at their own pace, and even try out the first module for free! Why not fast-track the progression of your new starter (and reduce your in-house training time) by booking their place here?

Your new hires are a valuable source of information as they work through their onboarding experience with you. What are they enjoying? What would they like to see a bit more or less of?

Getting feedback from them throughout their settling in period will help you evolve and adapt your onboarding process, to make it even better in the future. Swinging back to what we said at the start, timetabling is a pretty specific job – so the best people to ask how to make your future timetablers feel welcome and up to speed is… your new timetablers!

Our Timetabling New Starter course is a brilliant way to boost the skills and confidence of your newest timetabling team members. Spread over nine pre-recorded modules they can learn at their own pace, and even try out the first module for free. Check it out here.

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