LowCode Agency Buddy Program

What is a Buddy?

A Buddy is a colleague assigned to support a new team member during their first 4 to 6 weeks at LowCode Agency. The Buddy plays a key role in helping the new team members navigate their first days and integrate into the company more quickly. By offering insight into day-to-day activities, fostering communication, and providing guidance, the Buddy helps ensure the new hire feels comfortable and confident in their new role.

Buddy Program Benefits

For the New Hire:

Faster adaptation to the team and company culture.
A friendly, approachable contact for questions or concerns.
Reduced stress and increased confidence during the onboarding process.

For the Buddy:

Opportunities to develop leadership and communication skills.
Strengthened connection to the company and team.
Recognition for contributing to the success of onboarding.

For LowCode Agency:

Improved onboarding experience for new hires.
Faster ramp-up time and enhanced productivity.
Reinforcement of a supportive, collaborative company culture.

How to Choose the Right Buddy?

Key Characteristics of a Buddy

1. Communicator:

A Buddy should promote open communication by providing relevant information and encouraging continuous self-directed learning.

2. Role Model:

The Buddy should demonstrate professional behavior and act as a model performer, setting an example for the new team member.

3. Motivated:

With a positive outlook on their role, the Buddy helps build the new hire’s confidence and loyalty to the team. Motivation and enthusiasm are key.

4. Strong Performer:

Leveraging their experience and knowledge, the Buddy helps guide the new team member through various situations, ensuring they adapt to the LowCode Agency environment effectively

What a Buddy Is Not

Mentor:

A mentor is typically a more experienced professional focused on the personal and professional development of an individual over a long-term period. A Buddy’s role is focused specifically on onboarding and immediate support.

Manager:

The Buddy is not responsible for the new hire’s job performance. Questions about performance, policies, or disciplinary matters should be directed to the new hire’s manager. The Buddy can offer opinions and advice on navigating situations, but ultimate resolution lies with the manager.

Support The Chosen Buddy

Tips for Buddies

Don’t worry about being an expert. Focus on guiding and supporting the new joiner through their onboarding journey.
Be patient. Building trust and rapport takes time. Don’t try to cover everything in one session.
Stay positive. Reinforce the new hire’s growth and reassure them that they will develop into their role.
Adapt to the individual. Identify the new hire’s communication style and personality, and adjust your approach to suit their needs.
Offer constructive feedback. Focus on guidance rather than criticism, maintaining a teaching mindset.
Avoid judgment. Be supportive and understanding, even if the new hire struggles with certain aspects at first.

How the Buddy Program Fits into the Onboarding Process

The Buddy Program is a core part of LowCode Agency’s onboarding strategy. Buddies complement the support provided by HR and managers by offering a peer-to-peer perspective that helps new hires feel more comfortable and confident.

Buddy Responsibilities

Day 1: Initial Contact

Meet the new team members on their first day.
Provide a friendly introduction and answer any immediate questions.
Act as a resource for information on company policies and procedures.

Regular Check-Ins

Conduct weekly meetings (5–15 minutes), or daily during the first week.
Actively monitor the new hire’s progress and address their questions.

Facilitate Introductions

Introduce the new hire to key colleagues and stakeholders within their team or project.

Assist with Tools and Processes

Provide guidance on company tools like Slack, Plutio, and SOPs.
Answer questions about specific tools or processes related to their role.

Accelerate Ramp-Up

Track the new hire’s onboarding progress and offer support to help them adapt quickly.

Meetings and Follow-Ups - Role During Onboarding

Pre-onboarding:

Review the onboarding plan for the new hire (including the 30-60-90 day plan).
Prepare key tools or resources based on the new hire’s role.

Day 1: Buddy Introduction

First Meeting: A quick introduction to build rapport and address initial questions.

Guide the new hire through their first day, particularly with tools like Slack and Plutio.
Participate in the team welcome meeting to foster connections.

Weekly Check-Ins:

Schedule short meetings (5–15 minutes) to answer questions and monitor the new hire’s progress.
Serve as a constant support for questions and guidance during the initial weeks.
Help the new hire prioritize tasks and navigate their role effectively.

Day 30: Closing Meeting

Reflect on the onboarding experience with the new hire.
Provide mutual feedback on the process.
Identify areas where the new hire may need additional support.