TotalEnergies: Suriname Induction

The Problem

TotalEnergies needed a scalable, effective, and engaging induction training resource that could be rolled out to employees relocating to Suriname. Their internal teams identified several challenges with their current induction process:

• New staff members would arrive with limited understanding of Suriname’s cultural norms, environmental conditions, or local infrastructure
• Safety expectations and logistical protocols specific to the region were not being retained well through traditional onboarding formats
• There was no centralised, multimedia-based training asset that combined both safety and cultural orientation into one streamlined delivery

The company sought a modern solution to deliver induction training that would reduce information overload while increasing knowledge retention, cultural preparedness, and procedural awareness.

The Solution

We developed a bespoke induction training video specifically designed to improve knowledge transfer and staff readiness. The final video acted as both a site induction training tool and a cultural orientation resource, helping new employees understand what to expect both operationally and socially when arriving in Suriname.

Rather than rely on talking heads or generic footage, we proposed a highly visual, immersive approach. Taking inspiration from one of our older projects we did for Amazon for a staff induction film, we used similar techniques and learnings from that original process.

A first-person filming technique was used to simulate the employee journey from airport arrival to integration within the local work environment. This method supported better situational awareness and emotional engagement, giving viewers the feeling of experiencing Suriname firsthand.

• Creative concept inspired by past international projects in similar environments
• POV helmet camera used to simulate a personal and immersive experience
• Filming took place in real-world locations such as markets, streets, and airports
• Script content tailored to TotalEnergies’ specific induction training and safety requirements
• Structured to be completed in one viewing session for efficiency and consistency

The result was a modern, flexible induction video that could be reused as part of the company’s wider site induction training program for all staff assigned to Suriname.

Project Execution

Creative Development and Pre-Production
The project began with a creative pitch that demonstrated the power of immersive training video, supported by references from past international work. Once approved, SHIIFT worked closely with TotalEnergies to define the scope of content required for the induction training.

Key activities during this phase included:

• Creative workshops to identify the most critical induction messages
• Development of a detailed script aligned with TotalEnergies’ internal safety and HR briefings
• Logistics planning for international travel including visas, carnets, vaccinations, and kit preparation
• Selection of a UK-based crew with international filming experience and recruitment of local support teams in Suriname

Filming and Production
Filming was carried out over four days: three in Suriname and one in London. A variety of environments were captured, from airports and offices to markets and road networks, providing a well-rounded view of the journey and conditions new staff would encounter.

Using a POV helmet rig allowed SHIIFT to deliver a simulation-style experience, where employees watching the video would feel as if they were walking through the steps themselves. The video showed how to navigate local infrastructure, understand safety signage, and acclimate to cultural differences in everyday life.

Post-Production
All post-production work was handled in-house by SHIIFT’s editorial and audio teams. The editing phase included:

• Offline cut for internal review
• Professional voiceover to guide and narrate the induction experience
• Two structured feedback rounds with TotalEnergies
• Final delivery included full colour grading, audio mastering, and delivery in required formats for internal LMS or offline playback

Project Results

The finished induction video quickly became a core part of TotalEnergies’ onboarding and site induction training for Suriname-bound staff. Feedback was positive across all stakeholders, including HR, safety leads, and staff who had undergone the induction.

• Improved staff confidence and awareness before relocation
• Consolidated multiple briefings into a single, high-quality training asset
• Standardised delivery across international teams
• Created a reusable and scalable induction training tool
• Reinforced TotalEnergies’ commitment to safety and cultural respect

This project demonstrates how immersive, narrative-led video can transform the effectiveness of induction training, particularly when preparing staff for high-impact roles in unfamiliar environments. SHIIFT’s expertise in combining storytelling, filming techniques, and instructional design resulted in a powerful and flexible site induction training tool that continues to support TotalEnergies’ operations.

As organisations expand globally, effective staff induction will play a critical role in operational success, safety outcomes, and employee wellbeing. SHIIFT continues to lead in the delivery of custom training solutions that are practical, impactful, and aligned with real-world demands.

Whether used for relocation, onboarding, or regional safety briefings, our training solutions offer a forward-thinking alternative to traditional induction methods. With SHIIFT, your workforce is prepared, engaged, and ready from day one.