Created by:
Sabrinthia Donnelly
Have you ever started a new job and felt a little… lost? That’s exactly why a buddy system at work matters.
Our new hire buddy program template gives you a simple, flexible way to set up a buddy system at the workplace. It helps new hires feel like they belong, right from day one. It’s structured, supportive, and (best of all) easy to roll out. No starting from scratch and no second-guessing what to include.
If you’re in People Ops, HR, or just someone who wants to make onboarding less awkward and more awesome, this one’s for you.
What’s included
Here’s what you get in the template (spoiler: it’s a lot!):
- A step-by-step framework to build your new hire buddy program.
- Checklists to keep you on track at every stage.
- A 6-week timeline packed with ready-to-use themes and prompts.
- Sample goals and buddy selection criteria (because not everyone makes a great buddy, and that’s okay).
- Templates for buddy intros, team announcements, and feedback surveys.
- Conversation starters that go beyond “how’s it going?”
What is a new hire buddy program template?
A buddy program is not just a friendly face at lunch (though that helps).
At its core, the definition of a buddy system is about pairing new hires with someone who knows the ropes - a work buddy who can show them the unspoken rules, tools, and culture that don’t always show up in onboarding docs.
This template gives you the full playbook: how to set it up, what to include, and how to keep it running smoothly. You’ll have clear timelines, expectations, check-in guides, and communication tips - all wrapped into one practical, no-fluff resource.
Who is it for?
This template is for:
- HR and People teams who want a repeatable, scalable process.
- Managers who want to help their new hires hit the ground running.
- Team leads who care about culture but don’t want to reinvent the wheel.
And if you already have a buddy system at the workplace, this will help you tighten it up, fill in the gaps, and make it feel less like a checkbox and more like a connection.
How to use the template
Not a process person? No problem. This thing is designed to be super simple.
Here’s how to get rolling:
- Figure out what you want to achieve
Maybe it’s a stronger culture. Maybe it’s a faster ramp-up. Maybe you just want new folks to stop asking where the Slack channels are. Whatever it is, set a goal. The template gives you ideas if you're a little unsure. - Choose your buddies wisely
Not everyone’s buddy material, and that’s okay. Look for people who’ve been around a while, are approachable, and don’t mind explaining things twice (or three times). - Use the 6-week timeline
Each week has a theme, like role clarity, social connection, and growth. It’s designed to move the new hire from “Where’s the bathroom?” to “I got this.” - Keep it in sync with onboarding
Your work buddy shouldn’t replace onboarding; they should make it better. Align key touchpoints with the formal process to reinforce the important stuff. - Equip your people
Work buddies get a guide. New joiners get a guide. Everyone knows what to expect and how to make the most of the experience. - Launch it like you mean it
Announce it to the team. Give managers the heads-up. Let new hires know they’ve got a buddy lined up. We even included a sample Slack/email message to make that easy. - Measure, celebrate, repeat
Ask for feedback (yes, there’s a survey template), highlight work buddy wins, and keep making it better. This isn’t set-it-and-forget-it, it’s more of a 'grow-as-you-go'.
Download the new hire buddy program template
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