Enhancing Employee Engagement Through Effective Digital Onboarding Practices


Authors : Hemangi Sanjay Kurhade; Dr. Ashwini Sonawane

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 2 - February


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/44may7f5

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4t36cdxn

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26feb430

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : This study examines the role of digital onboarding practices in shaping early employee engagement in modern organizations. As workplaces increasingly adopt digital tools and virtual processes, structured onboarding systems have become critical in helping new employees adjust, learn, and feel connected to the organization. To understand this, primary data were collected from employees who recently completed digital onboarding through a structured questionnaire focusing on their initial experience, clarity of role, and sense of belonging during the onboarding phase. The analysis revealed that most employees are familiar with basic digital onboarding elements such as e-learning modules, online orientation sessions, and digital document submission, while a smaller proportion is fully aware of the deeper engagement-focused practices like virtual mentorship and interactive onboarding portals. Employees who had prior exposure to digital learning platforms reported a higher level of comfort and engagement compared to those with limited digital experience. It also emerged from the findings that some employees viewed digital onboarding as overwhelming or impersonal due to limited human interaction, suggesting that balanced communication and guided support remain necessary. Overall, the present study provides a baseline view of how digital onboarding influences employee engagement and highlights that structured digital guidance, user-friendly platforms, and continuous support can significantly enhance early employee experiences. The key insights hold practical value for organizations aiming to strengthen engagement, improve retention, and build a more connected, future- ready workforce.

Keywords : Digital Onboarding, Employee Engagement, Productivity, HR Technology, E- Learning Modules, Onboarding Portals

References :

  1. Sani, K., Adisa, T., Adekoya, O., & Orah, E. (2023). Digital onboarding and employee outcomes: Empirical evidence from the UK. Journal of Human Resource Management, XX(X), 1–15.
  2. Ashley, L., George, N., Hinson, J., Kauwell, J., & Keith, S. (2022). Enhancing onboarding for staff engagement and belonging. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Organizational Effectiveness Report.
  3. Aduwo, M. O., Akonobi, A. B., & Okpokwu, C. O. (2021). A technology-driven employee engagement model using HR platforms to improve organisational culture and staff retention. International Journal of Human Capital and Technology, XX(X), 45–60.
  4. Dahiwale, K. (2020). Smooth onboarding of a new employee: Enhancing employee engagement and retention. International Journal of Management Studies, 7(3), 112–120.
  5. Dahiwale, K., Chen, S., Petrilli, L., Galuppo, L., & Ripamonti, S. C. (2021). The strategic imperative and key elements of employee onboarding. Journal of Organisational Development Research, 15(2), 55–70.
  6. Dahiwale, K., Chen, S., Petrilli, L., Galuppo, L., & Ripamonti, S. C. (2021). Employee onboarding as a continuous development journey: Clarification, culture and connection. HR Development Review, 12(4), 88–102.
  7. Dahiwale, K., Chen, S., Petrilli, L., & Galuppo, L. (2022). Strategic onboarding: Key elements for success and adaptation in digital environments. International Journal of Digital HR Practices, 9(1), 30–44.
  8. Mosquera, M. E. S., Chen, S., Dahiwale, K., Petrilli, L., Galuppo, L., Ripamonti, S. C., & Varshney, D. (2022). Onboarding as a strategic lever for employee retention and well-being. Journal of Workplace Behaviour & Wellbeing, 6(2), 75–90.

This study examines the role of digital onboarding practices in shaping early employee engagement in modern organizations. As workplaces increasingly adopt digital tools and virtual processes, structured onboarding systems have become critical in helping new employees adjust, learn, and feel connected to the organization. To understand this, primary data were collected from employees who recently completed digital onboarding through a structured questionnaire focusing on their initial experience, clarity of role, and sense of belonging during the onboarding phase. The analysis revealed that most employees are familiar with basic digital onboarding elements such as e-learning modules, online orientation sessions, and digital document submission, while a smaller proportion is fully aware of the deeper engagement-focused practices like virtual mentorship and interactive onboarding portals. Employees who had prior exposure to digital learning platforms reported a higher level of comfort and engagement compared to those with limited digital experience. It also emerged from the findings that some employees viewed digital onboarding as overwhelming or impersonal due to limited human interaction, suggesting that balanced communication and guided support remain necessary. Overall, the present study provides a baseline view of how digital onboarding influences employee engagement and highlights that structured digital guidance, user-friendly platforms, and continuous support can significantly enhance early employee experiences. The key insights hold practical value for organizations aiming to strengthen engagement, improve retention, and build a more connected, future- ready workforce.

Keywords : Digital Onboarding, Employee Engagement, Productivity, HR Technology, E- Learning Modules, Onboarding Portals

Paper Submission Last Date
28 - February - 2026

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