Ep 152: The Secret to a Successful Team Member Onboarding with Savannah Bananas Co-Founder, Emily Cole [Highlight]

Jan 14

The Secret to a Successful Team Member Onboarding with Savannah Bananas Co-Founder, Emily Cole [Highlight]

In the world of sports, team culture can make or break a franchise. The Savannah Bananas, a baseball team known for their unique approach to the game and fan engagement, have taken this concept to heart. In a recent podcast episode, co-founder Emily Cole shared invaluable insights into their onboarding process, which not only ensures that new team members fit into their vibrant culture but also enhances the overall experience for everyone involved. If you're looking to elevate your own team's onboarding strategy, here are some key points from Emily's podcast interview that you won't want to miss.

Internship Programs as a Foundation

The Savannah Bananas have developed a robust internship program that allows potential team members to immerse themselves in the organization's culture. This hands-on experience helps both the team and the interns assess whether they are a good fit for each other, making the onboarding process more effective and meaningful.

Real-World Testing Under Pressure

Rather than relying solely on traditional interviews, the Bananas put candidates in real-life situations to see how they perform under pressure. This approach allows the team to evaluate how new hires react in challenging scenarios, ensuring they can thrive in the fast-paced environment of the organization.

Community Interaction is Key

A crucial aspect of the onboarding experience is observing how new team members interact with fans and staff. The Bananas prioritize this interaction, as it reflects the values of their organization and helps determine if a candidate will align with their community-focused culture.

Investing in the Right Fit

The Bananas believe in investing time and resources into their onboarding process, even flying candidates in for extended stays. This commitment allows both parties to gauge compatibility before any long-term commitments are made, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Continuous Check-Ins

While the Bananas conduct thorough evaluations before making an offer, they also implement regular check-ins during the initial 90 days of employment. This ongoing communication helps address any concerns and reinforces the importance of alignment between the new hire and the team.

Master of Onboarding Employees

The Savannah Bananas have mastered the art of onboarding by prioritizing culture, real-world testing, and community interaction. Their approach not only benefits the team but also enhances the overall experience for fans and staff alike. If you're interested in learning more about their unique strategies and how you can apply them to your own business, be sure to listen to this episode and the full interview!!

If you want to work on your member onboarding process and increase your retention, you should join my Retain Group Program. We offer templates and group support that will make the process much easier.