Say goodbye to inefficient onboarding methods with the 7 best employee onboarding software options for 2023. Revolutionize your onboarding process, enhance staff engagement, and set your new hires up for success.
There’s a lot to tackle when it comes time to onboard new hires. You need to deal with paperwork, compliance, and setting expectations—all while trying to create a warm welcome.
The good news is that employee onboarding software can streamline the entire process. With the right platform, new hires can quickly become productive members of your team. This saves you time and money while offering new hires a great experience right from the start.
The key lies in choosing the right employee onboarding software for your needs. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best employee onboarding software available today—and the features to look for when making your selection.
If you don’t have the time to read through our research, jump down to our quick comparison table.
Our Top Picks
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Best all-in-one employee onboarding software
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Good for collaboration in hiring and onboarding processes
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Good for automation in onboarding and offboarding
What to Look For in a Best Onboarding Software
When looking for the best onboarding software for your needs, you’ll typically want a solution that offers:
- Automated workflows to streamline tasks and reduce manual effort.
- A customizable onboarding checklist to help you tailor the onboarding process to meet your unique business needs.
- Document management features enable you to save, share, collect, and sign documents in one place.
- Progress tracking so you can stay updated on the onboarding status of new hires.
- Course creation tools to make and distribute customized training on any topic you’d like. Look for drag-and-drop course creation features, templates, and the ability to use videos, images, PDFs, and other files as course materials.
- Surveys and polls to gather feedback about onboarding and other topics from your new hires.
- Knowledge base to store important company information like employee handbooks, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and more. Having all this information in one place makes it easy for new hires to get up to speed on your business’ mission, values, and operations.
- Communication features like a team chat and company newsfeed to stay in contact with new hires.
- Integrations with HR software, payroll tools, and other digital systems you use for smoother operations.
- Mobile app access so you can onboard new hires anytime, anywhere.
A top contender that ticks all these boxes and more is Connecteam. It’s an employee onboarding platform designed with the needs of both employers and employees in mind.
Let’s look at the 7 best employee onboarding systems available in 2023—starting with Connecteam.
The 7 Best Best Onboarding Softwares of 2023
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Connecteam — Best all-in-one employee onboarding software
Connecteam is the top employee onboarding software option. It’s an all-in-one work management platform with features for onboarding, training, surveys and polls, and more.
Let’s take a closer look at its top features.
Create engaging training courses
Connecteam lets you create fully customizable training courses. These aren’t just boring text-based introductions to your company. You can make them interactive and engaging by incorporating images, videos, quizzes, and even surveys.
You can add multiple chapters and keep them locked until employees complete the previous one. This ensures a structured flow of knowledge and helps prevent information overload.
Plus, with Connecteam’s mobile app, employees can complete training sessions at their own pace, no matter where they are. Connecteam also gives you the option to send automated reminders to workers to complete their training.
Track employees’ onboarding progress
With Connecteam’s checklists feature, employees can always see what they need to do next. They can tick tasks off checklists on the go using their mobile devices—attaching files, notes, descriptions, and more to tasks for extra context.
You and your HR team can see at a glance how new hires are progressing through these onboarding checklists. There’s also the central admin dashboard that shows employee progress in real time. View which materials they’ve accessed, the quizzes they’ve taken, and the scores they’ve achieved.
What’s more, this real-time tracking allows you to intervene promptly when needed. For example, if a new hire is struggling with a particular module, you’ll know immediately and can offer support right away.
Give new hires access to a knowledge base
Connecteam also provides a centralized knowledge base. This is where you can store and manage all onboarding and training materials, plus other important company resources.
Your new hires can find all of the information they need here. They can access the knowledge base anytime, from anywhere, even on their mobile devices.
As a manager, you can set custom user access permissions on files so only specific employees have access to certain documents. For instance, you can make it so that only new hires can see onboarding materials, which wouldn’t be relevant for a worker who’s been at your company for many years.
Data is stored in the cloud and automatically synced, so any changes you make to documents are automatically reflected for everyone in the company.
Keep in touch with new hires
Communication is key in any onboarding process. With Connecteam’s secure in-app chat and updates feed, your new hires will never feel lost or disconnected.
They can reach out to you and other managers, ask questions, share ideas, and socialize with their new colleagues individually or in group chats. Using the updates feed, you can post announcements to your entire workforce—including new hires—at once and track who has viewed and interacted with your posts.
Easily handle the paperwork that comes with onboarding
Connecteam makes handling onboarding paperwork less of a hassle. You can store and manage all onboarding documents using Connecteam’s Documents feature. There’s no need to juggle multiple files or folders—everything is neatly organized within the app.
Employees can easily upload all their required documents and certificates. You can request specific documents from groups of employees in one click, minimizing the time it takes from recruitment to operation.
With Connecteam’s easy-to-use checklists, employees can see exactly what documents they need to submit. Plus, your HR team gets a live overview of every completed checklist.
You can also ensure your employee documentation is always up to date by setting expiration dates on documents. This makes staying fully compliant much easier.
Employee privacy is crucial, too. That’s why you can use the permissions center to set exactly who can view the relevant documents or employee details.
Get feedback on your onboarding process
Want to know how your new hires are finding the onboarding process? Send them a survey through Connecteam. It’s a simple yet powerful way to gather private feedback and make improvements.
Connecteam also has a live polls feature perfect for quick feedback from employees. This could be anything from deciding what to order for a team lunch to choosing the venue for the next company event to gathering opinions about the onboarding process from your new hires.
Always have customer support available and get access to a ton of other features
With Connecteam, you’re never alone. We have a fantastic customer support team ready to help you anytime—whether you’re stuck with a feature or need advice on how to get the most out of Connecteam.
Furthermore, Connecteam isn’t just a great option for employee onboarding. Our platform also offers features for employee scheduling, time tracking, event planning, time off management, and so much more.
Connecteam also offers a free for life plan – Try Connecteam here!
Key Features
Customizable onboarding courses and quizzes
Activity tracking for onboarding tasks
Document management for all onboarding materials
Centralized knowledge base for new employees
Feedback on onboarding via surveys and polls
In-app chat and social feed for easier communication
Pros
Highly customizable
Real-time tracking of employee onboarding progress
Easy to manage onboarding documents like certificates
Excellent customer support and intuitive user interface
Cons
More third-party integrations in the works
Pricing
Free-for-life plan availablePremium plans start at $29/month for 30 users
14-day free trial, no credit card required
Start your free trial -
Bamboo HR — Good for collaboration in hiring and onboarding processes
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
BambooHR is an online HR management platform with tools to promote communication, collaboration, and feedback during the hiring and onboarding stage. It also has an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) feature. This enables users to organize and track applicant information, simplifying candidate management.
The software includes document completion, electronic signatures, and pre-boarding features. These aim to speed up paperwork and automate tasks. However, onboarding and offboarding tools are available only in the more expensive Advantage plan. Pricing isn’t listed online, so those interested will need to contact BambooHR directly for a quote.
Learn more about Bamboo HRKey Features
- Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
- New hire onboarding tools
- Offboarding tools
- Customizable offer letter templates
Pros
- Collaborative hiring and onboarding tools
- Automated onboarding tasks and reminders
Cons
- Onboarding and offboarding only in the Advantage plan
- Pricing details not disclosed online
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: Yes Free Plan: No
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Rippling — Good for automation in onboarding and offboarding
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Rippling is an HR platform focused on automating onboarding and offboarding. It has a centralized worker database for managing all employee-related tasks. It also has central document management, enabling all onboarding papers to be stored and managed in one location.
Rippling automates offer letters, E-Verify visa verification, payroll setup, and benefits selection in onboarding. Users can also use Rippling to order and ship devices like laptops and monitors from manufacturers like Apple, Dell, and Lenovo to their staff.
That said, Rippling has a steep learning curve. Plus, its relatively high pricing may be offputting for smaller teams.
Learn more about RipplingKey Features
- Onboarding/offboarding automation
- Unified employee database
- Document management
- Device management
Pros
- Extensive onboarding process features
- Suitable for remote work environments
Cons
- Complex for smaller teams
- Pricing is higher than other HR software
Pricing
Starts at $8/user/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: No
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TriNet Zenefits — Good for employee self-onboarding
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
Zenefits is an HR software solution that allows employees to onboard themselves entirely online. Digital W-4s and I-9s, signatures, and background checks are among the features Zenefits provides to facilitate onboarding.
However, Zenefits isn’t without its drawbacks. Some users have stated in reviews that they experienced slow customer service and occasional technical issues. There have also been reports of the platform being challenging to navigate. In addition, its payroll features might not be as advanced as some alternatives.
Learn more about TriNet ZenefitsKey Features
- Employee self-onboarding
- Digital tax documents
- Digital signatures
- Background checks
Pros
- Online and mobile-friendly onboarding
- Digital signatures for onboarding documents
Cons
- Customer service can be slow
- Occasional technical issues with the platform
Pricing
Starts at $8/user/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: No
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GoCo — Good for automating routine tasks in onboarding
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
GoCo is an HR platform offering customizable onboarding tools. It focuses on creating a digital onboarding process that eliminates paper-based tasks. Its onboarding wizard is a notable feature that aids in collecting employee information, such as direct deposit details. New employees can also be shown a company overview that introduces them to the business’s history and philosophy.
An area where GoCo gets good reviews is in its automation of onboarding workflows. This helps HR managers streamline routine tasks.
However, while GoCo offers a comprehensive suite of features, smaller teams might find its capabilities overwhelming. Also, its per-user pricing means it can cost more overall than other options, especially for larger teams.
Learn more about GoCoKey Features
- Customizable onboarding software
- Automated onboarding workflows
- Digital onboarding process
- Pre-boarding experience
Pros
- Customizable onboarding process
- Automation of routine tasks
Cons
- Complex for smaller teams
- Higher pricing compared to some alternatives
Pricing
Starts at $5/user/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: Yes
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ClearCompany — Good for personalized onboarding experiences
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
ClearCompany is an HR platform that provides features for an improved employee onboarding process. It offers digital onboarding packets and forms, e-signature approvals, and task tracking to replace paper-based methods. There are also customizable onboarding packets tailored to each new hire’s location and role.
In addition, ClearCompany offers a personalized portal for new hires, designed to provide all necessary documentation and information to new employees from the first day. It also automates internal task assignments, but its reporting capabilities are limited. For employers seeking more detailed insights, this could be a drawback.
Learn more about ClearCompanyKey Features
- Digital onboarding packets and forms
- Customizable onboarding packets
- Automated internal task assignments
- Personalized portal for new hires
Pros
- Digital onboarding packets and forms
- Customizable onboarding packets
Cons
- Limited reporting capabilities
- No free plan
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: No Free Plan: No
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HiBob (bob) — Good for global core HR processes
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
HiBob is an HR platform that caters to HR processes, including onboarding, on an international scale. It offers automated onboarding flows designed to suit varying global needs. The software provides a way to create a personalized onboarding experience for new hires. Onboarding workflows can be tailored by group, team, department, or site.
Bob also supports pre-boarding. Managers and HR staff can invite new hires to start filling out details like their contact and bank information in Bob before their start date.
Besides onboarding, Bob can also handle time-off requests, helping manage employee leave efficiently.
However, online reviews have criticized Bob because some of its reports aren’t detailed enough.
Learn more about HiBob (bob)Key Features
- Automated onboarding flows
- Streamlined onboarding experiences
- Real-time quantifiable data
- Time-off request management
Pros
- Automated onboarding process
- Supports pre-boarding employees
Cons
- Limited reporting features
- Potential challenges in managing data
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: No Free Plan: No
Compare the Best Best Onboarding Softwares
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What Is Employee Onboarding Software?
Employee onboarding software is a digital HR solution designed to simplify and automate a new hire’s integration into a company. It acts as a centralized platform to conduct various onboarding activities like managing employee documentation, monitoring onboarding progress, assigning and tracking onboarding tasks, and communicating with new employees.
The platforms typically have built-in training tools, so managers can create and distribute custom onboarding courses, and knowledge bases, so new hires have easy access to company information. Some offer integrations with other HR, operations, or communications software.
Overall, employee onboarding software ensures that every step in the onboarding workflow is handled efficiently. In turn, HR staff members aren’t overworked and new hires are engaged—leading to a happier workforce and a thriving company culture.
How Does Employee Onboarding Software Work?
An employee onboarding system works by guiding your new hire, step-by-step, through their first days, weeks, or even months at your company.
First, a new employee will download an app or access the platform from a desktop. The onboarding system will provide a portal for them to complete their initial paperwork. It typically then presents a series of tasks, training modules, and learning resources designed to educate and engage the new hire.
In addition to guiding new employees, the software usually provides a dashboard view of each employee’s onboarding progress. Alerts notify the HR team when employees complete tasks or if any issues arise. For example, if an employee is falling behind in their onboarding training or fails to complete required forms, the HR team can be sent an alert to check on them.
Getting staff up to speed becomes easier and quicker with a streamlined employee onboarding system like Connecteam. It allows your HR team to focus more on building relationships and less on administrative tasks.
The Benefits of Employee Onboarding Software
Simplifies HR management
Keeping track of paperwork, onboarding tasks, and training can be a headache. An employee onboarding platform like Connecteam simplifies this. It’s an all-in-one solution that organizes everything in a centralized location. You’ll see a drastic reduction in paper clutter and errors, saving time and improving overall HR management.
Promotes employee engagement
A smooth onboarding process leads to more engaged employees. They feel valued, confident, and ready to contribute.
With Connecteam, the onboarding process is interactive and personal. Training can include quizzes and surveys, boosting engagement from day one. Plus, Connecteam’s in-app chat and recognition features promote ongoing commitment beyond the initial onboarding.
Ensures consistency
In onboarding, consistency is key. Every new hire must get the same introduction to your company so they perform their duties in the same manner as the rest of the workforce. With employee onboarding software, you’re assured of a consistent onboarding experience for all. From paperwork to training, every step is standardized—yet customizable to each new employee’s role.
Speeds up onboarding
Time is precious when onboarding new hires. The sooner they’re up to speed, the sooner they can start contributing. Automated workflows in onboarding software speed up this process. Tasks that could take weeks manually can be done in days or even hours. As a result, you can significantly reduce the time spent on onboarding.
Enhances company culture
A well-structured onboarding process introduces a new hire not only to their role but also to your company’s culture. HR onboarding software provides an avenue for this.
Connecteam, for instance, includes a knowledge base tool where you can store and manage documents detailing your business’s mission and core values. This helps you communicate your company culture to your new hires right from the start.
How Much Do Onboarding Solutions Cost?
The cost of employee onboarding software varies. Some providers, like Bob and ClearCompany, don’t publicly disclose their pricing, meaning you have to contact them for a quote.
Most others charge a per-user monthly fee. For instance, Zenefits’ most basic plan starts at $8 per employee, per month. But some platforms charge per user, per month and for additional features. Rippling, for example, starts at $8 per user, per month, plus additional costs based on your chosen services.
Connecteam does things differently. Our Small Business Plan is completely free for life for teams of up to 10. For larger teams, paid plans start at $29 per month for the first 30 users and just $0.50 per month for each additional user. It’s a cost-effective onboarding solution that doesn’t compromise on quality.
FAQs
What are the 4 Cs of employee onboarding?
The 4 Cs are compliance, clarification, culture, and connection. They’re the core areas you need to cover during employee onboarding.
Compliance involves informing new hires of laws, regulations, and policies relevant to your business. Clarification means providing employees with clear information on the company, their job roles, and their responsibilities. Meanwhile, culture involves introducing new hires to your company’s culture to promote a sense of belonging. Finally, connection means introducing new hires to their team members, supervisors, direct reports, and so on and encouraging meaningful conversations.
Comprehensive onboarding software like Connecteam helps you ensure you cover all these areas in onboarding.
What are the 6 stages of the employee lifecycle?
The 6 stages of the employee lifecycle are recruitment and hiring, onboarding, development and training, performance management, employee engagement, and offboarding. Onboarding is a crucial stage, as it’s the best time to set the employee up for success. You can manage the entire employee lifecycle using software like Connecteam.
What are the 3 most important elements of successful onboarding?
The 3 essential aspects of onboarding are job training, company culture introduction, and relationship building. Job training equips new hires with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed, company culture introduction gets them aligned with your business’s values and norms, and relationship building fosters connections and collaboration between new and existing employees.
The Bottom Line on Employee Onboarding Software
Employee onboarding software streamlines the onboarding process, ensuring consistency while saving you valuable time and resources.
Of all the onboarding solutions out there, Connecteam stands out as the best. It’s a do-everything solution that addresses all your onboarding needs. You can offer new hires engaging onboarding courses, communicate with them in real time, monitor their progress, empower them with step-by-step checklists, and more.
Get started with Connecteam for free today and see how it can benefit your business.