Starting a new job should feel like the beginning of something exciting. At Finyard, we believe onboarding is more than a process—it’s a warm welcome and a meaningful introduction to the way we work together. It’s a moment that sets the tone for every new team member’s journey and plays a key role in shaping the culture we’re building.

In this interview, Malika Mamytova, HR Business Partner at Finyard, shares how we approach onboarding as a shared responsibility and a chance to empower every new hire from the very beginning.

What’s the feeling you want every new hire to walk away with after their first week at Finyard?

Onboarding can be stressful, so our goal is to meet people with clarity, care, and real support. We want new hires to leave their first week feeling grounded and confident. That means knowing what to do, who to ask, and where to find help. We aim to provide emotional safety through clear communication and meaningful connection.

How does onboarding at Finyard help new team members feel a sense of connection and contribution?

We focus on two essential pillars: community and ownership.

It starts with genuine connections. We don’t just introduce people—we help them build relationships. From team meet-and-greets to daily chats, we encourage authentic conversations that create a sense of belonging.

At the same time, we give people a sense of ownership. New hires are encouraged to share ideas, suggest improvements, and participate in shaping the way we work. We believe in early involvement and trust, which helps turn new joiners into active contributors.

What’s the biggest misconception about onboarding, and how are we approaching it differently?

For many people, starting a new job often means learning new tools, understanding company values, and getting up to speed quickly. While learning is an important part of the process, we believe onboarding is really about building trust.

That first window—when someone is new and curious—is when company culture becomes real. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate who we are through our actions.

Another common misconception is that onboarding is just an HR function. In reality, the most impactful onboarding experiences come from managers. That’s why we equip our leaders to be mentors and onboarding partners, by creating meaningful connections and setting a strong example from day one.

What role do managers and teams play in making onboarding meaningful?

Managers shape the experience from the start. When they are clear, supportive, and open, it creates a ripple effect across the team.

Colleagues also play a crucial role. They share how things work, provide context, and create a welcoming environment where questions are encouraged. We support teams with the tools and mindset to help new hires feel included and empowered—not by handing them a handbook, but by showing them how we collaborate and grow together.

How does the onboarding process help new hires understand the company and their own growth opportunities?

We make it clear from day one that growth is a shared journey. Beyond introducing what Finyard does, we also show new hires where they fit in and how they can develop their path here.

That includes visibility into other teams, regular check-ins, and transparent conversations about goals and career development. We want every person to feel that their ambitions are seen, supported, and part of the bigger picture.

Why does onboarding play such a key role in shaping company culture?

Because culture is co-created, and onboarding is when it takes shape.

New team members pay close attention to how decisions are made, how people communicate, and what values are truly lived. It’s in these early moments that the culture becomes tangible.

When onboarding is done with care and intention, it’s more than just orientation. It becomes a living example of the culture we’re building together. In fact, Gallup research shows that only 12% of employees feel their company does onboarding well, but those who do are more likely to describe their company culture as authentic and engaging.

Finyard – Where a career journey begins with purpose

At Finyard, onboarding sets the foundation for growth and purpose. From emotional support to early ownership, every step is designed to help new hires feel confident, connected, and ready to make a difference.

If this sounds like the kind of culture where you’d thrive, explore our open roles and discover how your journey could begin at Finyard.