The Importance of Onboarding in Complex Projects

When people join the Belong in Plymouth network, they’re stepping into a web of stories, relationships, and evolving projects. But that complexity can be overwhelming.

As Stuart Jones reflected, “We often forget what new people don’t know, and it can feel overwhelming if we don’t guide them properly.” That sparked a practical response: a working group focused on onboarding.

The team proposed a “Welcomer” role—someone who could offer a friendly intro, walk newcomers through the project’s values, and help them find their place. “Sometimes a single phone call can answer all those little questions people hesitate to ask,” said Karen Pilkington.

This wasn’t just about logistics. It was a reflection of the project’s values. Belong in Plymouth has always prioritised relationships. And that starts at the door.

The onboarding effort also prompted a review of how the team tracks who’s involved. With so many working groups, roles, and threads, people were at risk of slipping through the cracks. Creating light-touch ways to stay connected—like weekly updates or quick check-ins—became just as important as formal induction.

In a culture driven by speed, Belong in Plymouth is taking a different path: slow, relational, intentional. Welcoming people well is part of that—and it’s a powerful reminder that how we begin shapes everything that follows.