Before the start date
- Agree the role, hours, reporting relationship and the working arrangement with Covela.
- Name a manager and a backup contact for questions.
- Prepare the systems access required for the role and the approval process for anything additional.
- Set out how confidential information should be handled in your business.
- Prepare a sample task, the instructions and an example of acceptable output.
Make ownership visible
| Activity | Starting owner |
|---|---|
| Priorities, daily direction and work review | Your business |
| Product/process training and system access | Your business, with arrangements confirmed before starting |
| Recruitment, HR, payroll and employment administration | Covela |
| Performance conversations | Covela, informed by your feedback on the work |
During the first week
Walk through a task together and leave time for questions. Review the first output early so corrections become part of the instructions. Check that the person knows where to record progress and how to raise an issue.
For customer support, practise escalation using a sample enquiry. For finance support, confirm who reviews prepared information and who approves changes. Explore support roles or finance roles.
After the initial handover
Agree a review rhythm that matches the work. Discuss specific examples, update unclear instructions and raise changes in scope with Covela. Keep a record of decisions so the person has a reliable reference.
Download the checklist