This checklist focuses on the immediate logistics of a new hire — the things that must be ready before and around day one.
Template overview
It covers pre-start preparation, day one, and the first week, with an owner assigned so nothing slips. Pair it with the fuller onboarding checklist for the first 90 days.
When to use it
- A candidate has accepted and a start date is set.
- You want a repeatable, consistent first-day experience.
- Multiple people are involved in preparing the start.
Key elements
- Pre-start: equipment, accounts and access requested
- Day one: workspace/tooling, welcome and key introductions
- Week one: first real task, tools walkthrough, check-in
- A named owner accountable for completion
Best practices
- Assign one clear owner for the checklist.
- Prepare access and equipment before day one.
- Book key introductions in advance.
- Hand over to a structured 30/60/90 plan after week one.
Printable template
Copy the block below and replace every [bracketed] placeholder. It is intentionally neutral so you can adapt it to your organisation and jurisdiction.
New hire: [name] Role: [role] Start: [date] Owner: [name]
Before day one
☐ Equipment and accounts requested
☐ Access and permissions prepared
☐ First-week schedule and key intros booked
☐ 30/60/90 plan drafted with the manager
Day one
☐ Welcome and workspace / tooling set up
☐ Role and expectations reviewed
☐ Point of contact / buddy introduced
☐ Essential policies and where to get help
Week one
☐ Meet key collaborators
☐ First small, real task completed
☐ Tools and processes walkthrough
☐ End-of-week check-in
For informational purposes only. This is an educational template, not legal advice and not a contract. HR and employment laws vary by jurisdiction, industry and contract. Adapt the wording to your situation and have qualified HR or legal professionals review it before use.