Final Checks and Onboarding: Setting Up for Success
How Reference Checks are Conducted
Reference checks are a crucial part of Amazon's hiring process, providing valuable insights into a candidate's past performance and work ethic. Here's how they are typically conducted:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Candidate Approval | Obtain candidate's permission to contact references |
| Reference Selection | Request professional references, preferably former managers or colleagues |
| Contact Method | Reach out via phone or email, depending on the reference's preference |
| Structured Questions | Use a standardized set of questions aligned with Amazon's Leadership Principles |
| Documentation | Record responses and insights gained from each reference |
What to Look For in References:
- Confirmation of the candidate's role, responsibilities, and achievements
- Examples of how the candidate demonstrated Amazon's Leadership Principles
- Insights into the candidate's strengths and areas for development
- Information about the candidate's ability to work in teams and handle challenges
- Any red flags or concerns that may not have been apparent during the interview process
Smooth Transition from Candidate to Employee
Amazon's onboarding process is designed to seamlessly integrate new hires into the company culture and set them up for success. Here's an overview of the transition:
Offer Acceptance
Candidate accepts the job offer and agrees to start date
Pre-boarding
New hire completes necessary paperwork and receives welcome materials
Day One Orientation
Introduction to Amazon's culture, values, and operational processes
Team Integration
Meeting team members and understanding role-specific responsibilities
Training and Development
Role-specific training and introduction to Amazon's internal tools
Goal Setting
Establishing initial performance goals aligned with team objectives
Ongoing Support
Regular check-ins with manager and assigned mentor
Tips for a Successful Onboarding Experience
To ensure a successful onboarding experience that aligns with Amazon's culture, consider the following tips:
- Immerse yourself in Amazon's Leadership Principles and apply them in your daily work
- Take initiative in learning about your team's projects and Amazon's broader mission
- Build relationships across teams to understand the interconnected nature of Amazon's business
- Embrace Amazon's "Day 1" mentality by staying curious and customer-focused
- Participate actively in team meetings and contribute ideas, even as a new hire
- Seek feedback regularly and be open to constructive criticism
- Familiarize yourself with Amazon's internal tools and processes quickly
- Set ambitious but achievable goals for your first few months
- Take advantage of learning and development resources offered by Amazon
- Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification when needed
Candidate's Journey Through Onboarding
Here's a visual representation of a candidate's journey through the onboarding process at Amazon:
Offer Acceptance
Pre-boarding
Day One
Team Integration
This journey emphasizes the smooth transition from candidate to fully integrated team member, highlighting Amazon's commitment to setting new hires up for success from day one.