Disney Unites 80,000 Employees with First Day Onboarding Program
At Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, all 80,000 employees start their first day together at an unassuming building behind Ariel's Grotto and the Seven Dwarves Mine Train. This is Disney University, where new recruits go through a five-part onboarding program called Traditions.
The goal of Traditions is to unify new employees, giving them an overview of the Disney heritage and culture. They learn that generating excitement for guests is now their responsibility, along with carrying forward Walt Disney's values when it comes to his parks.
New workers go through five chapters: 'We Create Happiness,' which emphasizes customer service; Chapter Two focuses on the company's roots and underscores Walt Disney's values; Chapter Three teaches decision-making and empowering workers to make their own magic with guests; Chapter Four introduces Disney's Five Keys: safety, courtesy, inclusion, show, and efficiency.
The training day ends with a visit from Mickey Mouse, who presents new cast members with their official company name tag. The program emphasizes the team dynamic and supporting each other both professionally and personally.