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July 17, 2023Migrant employees can fill gaps in your workforce and quickly become valued team members. However, portable restroom operators and migrant new hires may face challenges during the initial onboarding process and probationary period. With the right approach, you and your team can ensure successful integration.
Make the best use of your time by preparing before hiring migrant workers. Learn about potential government benefits of employing migrants and what guidelines you must follow. Also, plan to navigate language barriers and avoid customer or safety issues. Use the following tips to onboard migrant employees.
Understand Initial and Ongoing Compliance Requirements
In the United States, all new hires must complete Form I-9 to prove employment eligibility and show acceptable documents. The U.S. government classifies legal workers as U.S. citizens, noncitizen nationals, lawful permanent residents, or aliens authorized to work. In addition, several states require businesses to use the federal E-Verify system.
Start your journey at your local immigration office. Knowledgeable officials can provide resources and guidance regarding local, state, and federal regulations. They may also have information regarding programs available for businesses open to hiring migrants or refugees. See if the agency can provide materials for your new hire as well. Reading guidelines and requirements in their native language can help them understand what’s expected.
Update HR Policies and Documentation as Needed
Review your employee handbook to ensure you’re asking for the same information and standards from foreign-born workers as citizens. Policies should be uniform across the board. The last thing a small portable restroom company needs is a discrimination claim.
Have legal review your handbook to see where you can clarify wording and decide if you need a translated document. If you decide to translate your handbook, don’t simply put it into a free online tool. Different dialects and other nuances can change the meaning.
At the same time, consider updating or translating your safety procedure guidelines. Non-English speakers must be able to comprehend safety information in an emergency, and it’s also essential during the training process. Reach out to your network or local immigration office for assistance.
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Address Language and Cultural Barriers
Workplace customs and norms differ worldwide. Therefore, language may not be the only challenge your migrant employee faces. Remember to respect their privacy; many may not wish to discuss their personal life or circumstances. Consider using the buddy system to orientate your new team member. Doing so can help the co-worker adapt to workplace etiquette and understand break times and expectations.
Walk your new hire through your employee handbook and training manual. Encourage them to ask questions and be ready to provide frequent feedback so your expectations are clear. Emphasize safety and offer translated documentation if required to support your safety training and accident prevention program.
Prepare Early to Seamlessly Onboard Migrant Employees
Employing migrant workers gives PROs some flexibility. And with slight adjustments to your onboarding and training programs, you can onboard migrant employees with ease. Learning the guidelines and setting up your system takes some initial prep. But, after that, you can welcome foreign-born new hires and get them up to speed quickly.
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