Sound Assistant Onboarding Checklist

Sound Assistant Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Sound Assistant 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 Audio onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Sound Assistant, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Sound Assistant onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Sound Assistant Onboarding Checklist

1. Equipment familiarization: The sound assistant should be introduced to all the audio equipment used in the company, including microphones, mixers, recorders, and speakers. This task is typically performed by the senior sound engineer or the head of the audio department, who will provide a comprehensive overview of each piece of equipment, its functions, and how to operate it effectively.

2. Studio tour: A tour of the audio studio is essential for the sound assistant to become familiar with the layout, different rooms, and their purposes. This task is usually conducted by the studio manager or a senior sound engineer, who will explain the function of each room, such as the recording studio, control room, and editing suite, and provide an overview of the workflow within the studio.

3. Software training: The sound assistant should receive training on the audio software used by the company, such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live. This training is typically conducted by the audio department’s software specialist or a senior sound engineer, who will guide the assistant through the software’s features, functions, and best practices for audio editing, mixing, and mastering.

4. Project management tools: Familiarization with project management tools, such as Asana or Trello, is crucial for the sound assistant to effectively collaborate with the rest of the team. The assistant may receive training from the project manager or a senior team member, who will explain how to use the tools to track project progress, assign tasks, and communicate with colleagues.

5. Communication channels: The sound assistant should be introduced to the company’s communication channels, such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, to ensure seamless communication with team members. A senior team member or the IT department will guide the assistant through the setup process, explain the different channels, and provide guidelines for effective communication within the company.

6. Safety protocols: Understanding and adhering to safety protocols is essential in the audio industry, where working with electrical equipment and high sound levels can pose risks. The sound assistant should receive safety training from the company’s safety officer or a senior sound engineer, who will explain the proper handling of equipment, emergency procedures, and any specific safety guidelines relevant to the company.

7. Shadowing senior sound engineers: To gain practical experience and learn the company’s specific workflows, the sound assistant should shadow senior sound engineers on various projects. This task is typically organized by the audio department manager, who will assign the assistant to work alongside experienced engineers, allowing them to observe and learn the intricacies of audio production, troubleshooting, and client interactions.

8. Networking with colleagues: Building relationships with colleagues is crucial for a sound assistant to integrate into the company culture and establish a strong professional network. The assistant should be encouraged to attend team meetings, social events, and networking opportunities to connect with colleagues from different departments and learn from their experiences. The HR department or a designated mentor can facilitate introductions and provide guidance on networking within the company.

9. Industry research: Staying up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and techniques in the audio industry is essential for a sound assistant’s professional growth. The assistant should be encouraged to dedicate time to research industry publications, attend webinars or conferences, and engage in online forums or communities to expand their knowledge and stay informed about advancements in audio production.

10. Performance reviews and goal setting: Regular performance reviews and goal-setting sessions should be conducted with the sound assistant to provide feedback, assess progress, and set objectives for professional development. This task is typically performed by the audio department manager or a senior sound engineer, who will evaluate the assistant’s performance, identify areas for improvement, and collaboratively set goals to enhance their skills and career trajectory within the company

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Sound Assistant checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Sound Assistant up to speed and working well in your Audio 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.