Employee onboarding is a crucial process that sets the tone for a new hire’s experience in a company. A well-structured Employee Onboarding To-Do List plan ensures that employees are engaged, productive, and aligned with company objectives from day one. However, keeping track of multiple onboarding tasks can be overwhelming, especially for HR teams managing multiple hires.
To simplify the process, we have created an Employee Onboarding To-Do List in Excel, a ready-to-use template that allows you to streamline employee onboarding effortlessly. In this guide, we will explore how to use this checklist effectively, along with best practices, advantages, and frequently asked questions.
Why Use an Employee Onboarding To-Do List in Excel?
Excel is one of the most versatile and accessible tools for managing employee onboarding. Here’s why you should consider using it:
- Customizable: Tailor the checklist according to your company’s onboarding needs.
- Automated Tracking: Easily track progress with status updates and progress bars.
- Centralized Data: Store all onboarding tasks, responsible personnel, and deadlines in one place.
- Cost-Effective: No need for expensive HR software.
- User-Friendly: Anyone with basic Excel knowledge can use the template.
Features of the Employee Onboarding To-Do List Template
Our Employee Onboarding To-Do List in Excel consists of two main worksheets:
Employee Onboarding To-Do List Checklist Sheet

This is the primary sheet where you will track all onboarding tasks.
Top Section:
The top section provides an overview of the onboarding process with three main cards:
- Total Tasks: Displays the total number of checklist items.
- Checked Tasks: Tracks completed tasks.
- Crossed Tasks: Tracks incomplete or pending tasks.
- Progress Bar: Visually represents the percentage of completed tasks.
List Sheet Tab

This sheet captures a unique list of responsible persons to create a drop-down list in the main table. It ensures consistency and accuracy in assigning responsibilities.
Advantages of Using the Employee Onboarding Checklist in Excel
Structured and Organized Workflow
A well-defined checklist ensures that every onboarding step is accounted for, reducing confusion and delays.
Improved Accountability
Each task has an assigned responsible person, ensuring clarity on who needs to complete what.
Efficient Task Tracking
The progress bar and status updates help HR teams monitor progress in real time.
Customization Flexibility
Companies can modify the template to match their specific onboarding processes.
Cost-Effective Solution
Instead of investing in expensive HR software, businesses can manage onboarding efficiently with Excel.
Best Practices for Employee Onboarding
Define a Clear Onboarding Plan
Outline every task, from pre-boarding activities to the first 90 days of employment.
Assign Responsibilities
Ensure every task is assigned to the right person to avoid confusion.
Set Realistic Deadlines
Establish deadlines for each task to keep the onboarding process on track.
Regularly Update the Checklist
Modify the checklist based on feedback and changing company policies.
Automate Wherever Possible
Use Excel formulas and conditional formatting to automate progress tracking.
Conclusion
An Employee Onboarding To-Do List in Excel is a simple yet powerful tool to ensure smooth onboarding. By utilizing this structured checklist, HR teams can efficiently manage tasks, track progress, and provide a seamless experience for new employees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I customize the checklist according to my company’s needs?
Yes! The template is fully customizable. You can add, remove, or modify checklist items as needed.
How do I track progress in the Excel checklist?
You can track progress using the status column. The template also includes a progress bar that updates automatically based on task completion.
Can multiple users update the checklist simultaneously?
If using Excel Online or Google Sheets, multiple users can update the checklist in real time.
How often should I update the checklist?
Regular updates are recommended, especially when company policies, responsibilities, or processes change.
Is this checklist suitable for remote employee onboarding?
Absolutely! This checklist works for both in-office and remote onboarding, ensuring that every new hire gets the necessary support.
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