At Artemis Canada, we know that hiring the right executive or functional leader is only part of the journey. The real impact happens once that leader joins the team. The first 90 days of onboarding are critical. This period shapes a leader’s confidence, their relationships, and their ability to translate vision into measurable results.
Yet many growing companies still treat onboarding as a short orientation instead of a strategic process that directly influences performance and retention. To better support the companies we work with and the leaders we place, we created Artemis Onboarding Solutions. These programs give high growth teams a clear and effective framework that helps new leaders integrate quickly and deliver impact sooner.
A strong onboarding program is one of the most important investments a growing company can make. Research and experience show that:
For startups and scale-ups where speed and alignment matter, a thoughtful onboarding process reduces friction and sets a strong foundation for long-term success.
Startups and scale-ups have unique needs. They are fast moving, resource constrained, and often building internal processes for the first time. Artemis Onboarding Solutions were created with these realities in mind and offer three flexible options.
The most successful startup and scale-upon boarding programs go beyond a first day introduction. They create clarity, build relationships, and support learning throughout the full 90-day onboarding plan.
Pre-boarding: Preparing tools and resources, introducing the team, sharing key information, and setting expectations before day one.
Day 1 Orientation: Helping leaders understand how the team works, who they will collaborate with, and what is required to start confidently.
First 30 Days: Balancing learning with early action. Establishing relationships, reviewing goals, and building a strong understanding of the product, customers, and business operations.
Months 2-3 & Beyond: Strengthening alignment with strategic priorities, identifying opportunities for improvement, gaining momentum on key deliverables, and building trust across the organization.
Great on boarding is also personalized. When the process reflects a leader’s strengths, communication preferences, and working style, they integrate faster and feel connected to the company sooner.
This checklist outlines onboarding best practices for startups and scale-ups. It is a simple and practical way to bring structure and clarity to your onboarding process and help your new leader feel supported from day one.
Artemis Canada partners closely with high growth startups and scale-ups across the country. We see firsthand how much effort founders and executives put into hiring the right leaders. Once that leader joins, the level of onboarding support varies significantly, often because internal teams are stretched thin or scaling quickly.
This is why we built Artemis Onboarding Solutions. Our goal is to help companies turn great hires into high impact leaders by providing structure, clarity, and continuity after the recruitment process ends. By combining proven onboarding frameworks with practical guidance, we help startups and scale-ups reduce ramp time and create the conditions for long-term success.
If you are hiring a new leader or want to improve the onboarding experience for your current team, our team can help you build a process that works. Connect with us to learn more about our onboarding programs and how they support successful transitions.
Read more insights from our team.
Founded by Kristina McDougall in 2013, Artemis has grown to become Canada’s most trusted boutique executive search firm for startups.
We recognize that our work takes place on the traditional lands of the Attawandaron, Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, and Mississaugas of the Credit. We honour Indigenous stewardship and commit to embedding reconciliation into our work, holding ourselves and our clients accountable.
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