In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, companies increasingly rely on Employer of Record (EOR) services to streamline hiring, payroll, compliance, and other HR processes. While EORs offer companies flexibility and efficiency, one challenge often overlooked is ensuring EOR employees feel integrated into the team. Employees onboarded through an EOR might work remotely or be dispersed across different locations, which can make it harder for them to feel connected to the company’s culture.
When EOR employees feel like a valued part of the team, they are more engaged, productive, and loyal. Here’s how companies can successfully bridge the gap and foster a sense of belonging for EOR employees:
1. Onboarding with Inclusion in Mind
The onboarding process sets the tone for an EOR employee’s experience. Ensure that EOR employees receive the same attention, resources, and cultural immersion as direct hires. Provide them with a comprehensive introduction to your company’s mission, values, and goals. Make sure they have the tools to understand their role and how it fits into the bigger picture.
Pro tip: Create a welcome kit for EOR employees, including company swag, a personal note from a senior leader, and a clear path for where they can find resources to succeed in their roles.
2. Foster Communication and Transparency
Clear and open communication is critical to making EOR employees feel part of the team. Regular check-ins, updates on company goals, and transparent discussions about challenges and wins help create a sense of involvement. Make sure EOR employees are included in company-wide meetings and communication channels.
Pro tip: Use collaboration tools like Slack, Teams, or Zoom, and assign a mentor or “buddy” from the internal team to guide the new EOR employee during their first few months.
3. Integrate Them Into the Company Culture
Culture is a major driver of employee engagement. Ensure that EOR employees are invited to all social activities, both virtual and in-person. If your company has traditions, rituals, or employee resource groups, make sure EOR employees know they can participate. Recognizing milestones, like work anniversaries or birthdays, for EOR employees can go a long way in making them feel appreciated.
Pro tip: Consider a quarterly team-building event where EOR employees can interact with permanent employees. This could be as simple as a virtual coffee chat or a larger team retreat.
4. Provide Equal Opportunities for Growth and Development
EOR employees, like permanent staff, need opportunities to grow within the company. Encourage them to take advantage of any learning and development opportunities, whether that’s in-house training, professional certifications, or mentorship programs. Offering EOR employees the chance to develop new skills not only benefits the individual but also strengthens the company.
Pro tip: Set up a formalized performance review process for EOR employees, providing them with feedback and clear growth pathways, just as you would for your direct hires.
5. Recognize and Reward Their Contributions
Nothing says “you’re part of the team” like recognizing an employee’s hard work. Whether they’re employed through an EOR or are part of the direct staff, celebrating successes, acknowledging achievements, and rewarding performance are key to making employees feel valued.
Pro tip: Establish a recognition system, such as an employee of the month award or peer-to-peer shoutouts, that includes EOR employees. This public recognition can foster a stronger sense of belonging.
6. Ensure a Smooth Collaboration with EOR Provider
The collaboration between your company and the EOR provider should be seamless. Clear communication and alignment with your EOR provider are essential to ensure that EOR employees have the same experience as your direct hires. Whether it’s payroll, benefits, or compliance, working with a tech-forward EOR provider that integrates easily with your company’s systems can prevent logistical hiccups that may make EOR employees feel like outsiders.
Pro tip: Use an EOR platform that is customizable to your industry needs, ensuring smooth processes and open lines of communication with EOR staff. This ensures that the backend supports a cohesive experience for EOR employees.
7. Support Work-Life Balance
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is important for all employees, but for EOR employees—who may be working remotely or balancing multiple assignments—this becomes even more crucial. Encourage them to set boundaries and use the available company benefits, such as flexible working hours or wellness programs, to avoid burnout.
Pro tip: Provide access to mental health and wellness resources for EOR employees, highlighting that their well-being is a priority for your organization.
Next Steps for EOR employees
EOR employees can be just as committed, engaged, and productive as permanent employees, but it’s up to companies to make sure they feel like part of the team. By focusing on inclusion, clear communication, equal opportunities, and recognition, businesses can ensure that EOR employees are fully integrated into the company culture. With the right strategy, your EOR workforce will thrive and contribute to your company’s long-term success.
Remember, when EOR employees feel connected to the team, everyone wins.
