Beginning in August, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s New Employee Orientation program will include a free lunch at campus dining centers.
“We have worked to shift the focus of NEO from ‘information and compliance’ to ‘welcome and connection,’” said Celese Spier, director of organizational development. “We are excited to partner with UNL Dining Services and offer new employees the chance to further connect with each other while experiencing one of our fabulous campus amenities.”
The orientation introduces new hires to the university’s structure and culture; provides opportunities to connect with other new employees; includes a conversation with a senior university leader; and acquaints participants with many of the benefits and resources available to university employees.
New staff members are encouraged to participate within their first 30 days. However, new employees are welcome to attend even after their first month.
The New Employee Orientation schedule offers sessions on City and East campuses. On City Campus, the sessions are in the Willa Cather Dining Complex. East Campus sessions are in the Nebraska East Union. Access a complete schedule and related information here.
Currently, only 35% of new hires attend orientation. To increase attendance, campus leaders are encouraging supervisors and managers to refer new hires to orientation and to follow these best practices:
- New hires report feeling like they can’t take time away from their new job, so build NEO into their training schedule. A calendar for upcoming sessions can be found on the UNL HR onboarding website.
- New hires report being nervous to attend, so explain how to get to the location (and where to park if they opt to drive).
If you have questions about or feedback regarding New Employee Orientation, contact Celeste Spier at cspier2@unl.edu.
