Connecting the Dots: A Virtual Onboarding Experience Blending Challenges and Wellness

HSBC’s virtual onboarding program, crafted in collaboration with FocusU, aimed to engage new hires with the company’s culture and foster key values like collaboration, curiosity, critical thinking, resilience, and growth mindset. Spanning three days, the program involved 200 participants organized into 20 teams competing in a gamified, immersive experience. Activities included team challenges such as the BOMS Challenge, Map the City, and a Digital Olympics, each designed to encourage teamwork and skill development. The experience culminated in the Happy Feet Challenge, promoting connectivity and bonding.

A live leaderboard tracked individual and team progress, while asynchronous wellness challenges added flexibility and personalized engagement. Participants shared reflections post-challenge, revealing personal growth and team collaboration strategies. The program was well-received, with 80% of participants rating it 5 out of 5 for engagement and satisfaction. Overall, HSBC’s onboarding experience succeeded in integrating new hires into the company culture, instilling team spirit, and promoting a collaborative, resilient mindset among its global workforce.