When I brought on a new employee at Disney, I would have a 2-hour conversation with them, but we would not talk about work.
A corporate feeling meeting can leave a new employee feeling unsettled. A one on one meeting to find out more about them as a person sets them at ease and welcomes them to the company.
Having a conversation without talking about work gives a new employee a positive onboarding experience.
During our talk, I wanted to get to know them; their background, family, kids, and jobs they have had in the past. I would let them know I expect them to take care of their family before they take care of work.
People need to know what they can expect when trying to juggle personal life and work life.
The better you get to know people, the better you can work together.