How Do I Get Started as a New Employee?
Quick Links
Congratulations on your new job! Northwestern is a great place to work. It’s also a big, diverse environment and getting started here takes time. Here are some of the first steps most University employees need to take.
1. New Employee Onboarding Checklist
Download and print the Onboarding Checklist 
, and go over it with your manager. (This provides a more comprehensive list of things to do as a new employee, and specific resources for completing some of the following steps.)
2. Unit-specific onboarding
Talk with your manager and colleagues about additional unit-specific onboarding procedures.
3. Paperwork
Make sure all your paperwork is complete with HR, including:
- W-4
- I-9
- Personal Data Form
- Employment Application (this must have your signature)
- Direct Deposit Application
4. NetID, Email, WildCARD
Activate your NetID, set up your email account, and get a WildCARD.
5. Orientations
- Attend New Employee Orientation Part 1 during your first month, and enroll in your Benefits.
- Attend New Employee Orientation Part 2 during your second or third month.
6. Workplace Learning
Sign up for workshops and other learning opportunities. Determine which University Business Processes workshops are right for your role, which software systems you’ll be using, and if your department or position requires any additional training. Nearly all employees are encouraged to take the Introduction to University Business Processes online module.
Questions?
Contact the Learning & Organization Development team at workplace-learning@northwestern.edu.