The buddy is an important role in the onboarding of the new hire.

A buddy is a colleague who provides guidance and support to a new hire, and helps integrate the new hire into the team and culture of the company. As a peer, the new hire may feel more comfortable asking questions than to their manager.

It is most important the buddy is a strong communicator, is enthusiastic about helping, and has the time to support the new hire.

Consider the following

The buddy should:

1. [Most importantly] Have the willingness, ability, and time to prioritize being a buddy.
   1. Does the person have the time?
   2. Do they like to mentor?
   3. Are they excited about helping others?
2. Be a strong communicator and have interpersonal skills.
   1. A buddy should be approachable, empathetic, and able to establish a trusting relationship with the new hire.
   2. A buddy should encourage open communication.
3. Be a peer of the new hire.
   1. Do not select someone in the new hire’s management chain.
   2. The buddy does not need to be the highest seniority or skilled person on the team, or even ‘above’ the new hire’s level.
4. Is skilled in their role, and understands the new hire’s role.
   1. It is recommend the buddy be a teammate, though that is not always possible.
   2. If a teammate is not available, someone who is adjacent to the team or the new hire’s role can be helpful.

Keep in mind

1. There is a time commitment to this! Ensure the person has time to be a buddy, and ensure you do not have the same person being a buddy for each new hire. Balance the workload!
2. Being a buddy can be great for career development. It is an opportunity for employees to learn and demonstrate leadership and mentorship skills.
3. Reward the behavior. When it comes time for reviews, ensure to include this work. Being a buddy is vital for supporting new hires and building a positive company culture.