Automation is now standard in onboarding. Forms are digital, workflows are mapped, and reminders run on autopilot. Yet many organisations are still struggling with disengaged new hires and early turnover.
The problem isn’t automation.
It’s how it’s being used.
In 2026, effective onboarding isn’t fully automated or fully manual. It’s intentionally designed. Technology is there to remove the friction, but people will also be required to create connection.
What you should automate
Automation works best for tasks that are administrative, repetitive and low in emotional value.
This includes:
- Pre-boarding paperwork and compliance
- Payroll, systems access and equipment requests
- Start-date reminders and onboarding schedules
- Role-based resources and self-paced learning
- Onboarding checklists and milestone tracking
Done well, automation reduces errors, saves time and prevents unnecessary stress. It signals to new hires that the organisation is organised and ready for them.
The key is pacing. Automation should support learning, not overwhelm new hires with information on day one.
What should always stay human
Some onboarding moments carry emotional weight and automating them often does more harm than good.
These tasks should remain human-led:
- Personal welcomes from managers
- Team introductions and early check-ins
- Conversations about culture and “how things really work”
- Feedback, reassurance and confidence-building in the first 90 days
Belonging, trust and psychological safety aren’t created through systems. They’re built through conversations, especially early on and even in remote teams.
A simple rule for getting the balance right
With all the tools and technology available these days, it can be easy to get carried away! Before automating any onboarding task, ask:
- Does this remove friction or build trust?
If it removes friction, automate it.
If it builds trust, keep it human.
This simple lens helps organisations avoid over-automating the very moments that matter most.
The best onboarding experiences don’t feel automated, even when they are.
In 2026, onboarding success will be measured less by task completion and more by how confident, connected and supported new hires feel.
Need help with systemising your onboarding processes? Reach out to our team to find out more.