Brief Writer Onboarding Checklist

Brief Writer Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Brief Writer starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Writing onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Brief Writer, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Brief Writer onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Brief Writer Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company culture and values: The task involves providing the new brief writer with an overview of the company’s culture, values, and mission. This helps them understand the organization’s expectations, work environment, and overall ethos. Typically, the HR department or a designated company representative performs this task.

2. Familiarization with company policies and procedures: The new brief writer should be introduced to the company’s policies and procedures, including those related to writing, communication, and client interactions. This task ensures that the writer understands the guidelines they need to follow while working on briefs. The HR department or a designated supervisor usually handles this task.

3. Introduction to team members and key stakeholders: It is crucial for the brief writer to meet their team members, including fellow writers, editors, and project managers. Additionally, they should be introduced to key stakeholders such as clients or department heads. This task helps the writer establish relationships, understand team dynamics, and identify key points of contact. The team lead or project manager typically performs this task.

4. Review of previous briefs and writing samples: The new brief writer should be provided with previous briefs and writing samples to review. This allows them to familiarize themselves with the company’s writing style, tone, and quality expectations. It also helps them understand the specific requirements of different clients or projects. The team lead or a senior writer usually handles this task.

5. Training on company-specific writing tools and software: The brief writer should receive training on any company-specific writing tools, software, or platforms they will be using. This includes content management systems, project management tools, and any other software relevant to their role. The IT department or a designated trainer typically performs this task.

6. Introduction to the company’s target audience and industry: The new brief writer should be provided with information about the company’s target audience and the industry it operates in. This task helps the writer understand the context in which they will be writing and enables them to tailor their briefs accordingly. The marketing or strategy department usually handles this task.

7. Shadowing experienced brief writers: The new brief writer should have the opportunity to shadow experienced writers to observe their writing process, client interactions, and project management techniques. This task allows the new writer to learn from their peers and gain practical insights into the role. Senior writers or project managers typically perform this task.

8. Review of company branding guidelines: The brief writer should be familiarized with the company’s branding guidelines, including logo usage, color schemes, and tone of voice. This ensures that the writer maintains consistency in their briefs and aligns with the company’s overall brand image. The marketing or design department usually handles this task.

9. Introduction to project management processes: The new brief writer should be introduced to the company’s project management processes, including how briefs are assigned, tracked, and delivered. This task helps the writer understand their role within the broader project management framework and ensures smooth collaboration with other team members. The project manager or team lead typically performs this task.

10. Performance expectations and feedback mechanisms: The new brief writer should be provided with clear performance expectations and informed about the feedback mechanisms in place. This includes regular performance reviews, feedback sessions, and opportunities for professional development. The HR department or the writer’s direct supervisor usually handles this task.

11. Introduction to company resources and support systems: The new brief writer should be made aware of the various resources and support systems available to them within the company. This includes access to research databases, writing guides, and any other tools that can aid their writing process. The HR department or a designated trainer typically performs this task.

12. Introduction to company-wide communication channels: The new brief writer should be introduced to the company’s communication channels, such as email, instant messaging platforms, and project management tools. This ensures they can effectively communicate with team members, clients, and other stakeholders. The IT department or a designated trainer usually handles this task.

13. Setting up performance goals and objectives: The new brief writer should work with their supervisor to set performance goals and objectives that align with the company’s overall objectives. This task helps the writer understand what is expected of them and provides a roadmap for their professional growth within the company. The writer’s direct supervisor typically performs this task.

14. Introduction to company benefits and perks: The new brief writer should be provided with information about the company’s benefits and perks, such as health insurance, retirement plans, vacation policies, and any other employee benefits. This task ensures that the writer is aware of the comprehensive compensation package offered by the company. The HR department typically handles this task.

15. Ongoing mentorship and support: The new brief writer should be assigned a mentor or a designated point of contact who can provide ongoing support, guidance, and answer any questions they may have. This task helps the writer feel supported and ensures a smooth transition into their new role. The mentor is typically an experienced writer or a senior team member

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Brief Writer checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Brief Writer up to speed and working well in your Writing team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.