A Simple IT Checklist for Onboarding New Staff
Download a free editable new-starter IT checklist, completed fictional example and quick-start guide. Organise accounts, equipment, access and first-day checks.
A new starter should be able to sign in, open the right files and get on with their work. This free new-starter IT pack gives you an editable checklist to organise the setup, assign responsibilities and check that everything works.
Download your free new-starter IT pack
No email address or registration required. Save a fresh copy for each starter and adapt it to your business.
Download the one-page quick-start guide (PDF, 99 KB)
What is included?
- A working checklist: 20 tasks covering preparation, first-day checks and first-week handover.
- Editable owners, dates and status: make it clear who is doing each job and what is still waiting.
- Space for evidence: record what was tested, rather than simply ticking a box.
- A completed fictional example: see how an office setup could be recorded without using anyone’s real information.
- Short instructions: explain how to adapt the checklist and handle anything that is not ready.
Before the new starter arrives
Ask the manager to confirm the role, start date, work location and required applications. Agree which shared files, mailboxes and teams the person should access before creating accounts. Give them the access their job needs and a clear route to request more.
Prepare the laptop, charger and other equipment. Check software licences, updates, device protection and where work files will be stored. Confirm who is responsible for backup and recovery. A synchronised folder alone does not tell you what recovery arrangements are in place.
On the first day: test the actual work
Work through sign-in and MFA with the new starter. Send and receive a test email, open the required applications and check approved shared resources. Test calls, network access and printing where relevant. Make sure the person knows how to request help and report a suspicious message or lost device.
The workbook’s completed-task count is a progress aid, not sign-off. If something is not ready, record an owner, next action and due date. Explain any task marked Not applicable.
Keep account details secure
Do not put passwords, recovery codes or identity documents in the workbook. Use your approved secure account setup process and store completed checklists in a restricted company location. Use a starter reference instead of a full name where that is enough.
Review the first week
Ask what is still getting in the way. Review access, assign any unresolved issues and confirm the handover with the manager. Save the completed checklist so the next setup starts with a clearer process.
For more context, read about MFA for business accounts or explore business IT support.
Want help getting the setup done?
hostme.ie can help with business accounts, equipment and new-starter setup. Tell us the start date, the systems you use and what needs preparing. We will confirm the work and timing with you.
Ask about new-starter setup on WhatsApp — 089 960 2794
Resource version 1.0 · September 2026. The example in the workbook is fictional.
Managing a departure?
Use our free staff-leaver IT checklist to organise access removal, preserve required work and hand over responsibilities.
