Today’s topic is “new employee onboarding kits”. A chance to shower your fresh recruits with branded swag and enough stationery to open a small shop, right?
Well, not quite.
While a branded pen and notebook might be appreciated, modern onboarding kits are less about “stuff” and more about creating a meaningful experience. Think less “Welcome to the team!” and more “We’re thrilled to have you and want you to have a great first day and week!”
In this post, we’ll explore some creative onboarding kit ideas that go beyond the usual suspects, helping you make a lasting impression on your new hires from day one.
What you’ll find in this article:
- What is an onboarding kit and why is it important?
- 15 ideas for your new hire welcome kit
- Tips for creating the perfect welcome kit
- The ROI of onboarding kits
What is an onboarding kit and why is it important?
Onboarding kits are a tangible way to express your company culture and values, going beyond the usual HR processes to create a memorable first impression.
While they might not contain everything needed to thrive or single-handedly boost confidence, they do play a key role in making a positive first impression. It’s about showing your new hires that you’re invested in their success from day one.
A well-designed onboarding kit can reinforce your employer brand, provide practical items like an employee handbook or a branded water bottle, and even include some fun extras to boost morale. It’s a small gesture that can go a long way in creating a sense of belonging and guiding new employees through orientation.
15 ideas for your new hire welcome kit
To help make your onboarding welcome kit for new employees shine, let’s go over 15 ideas that you can use.
1. Company swag
Everyone loves a bit of branded company swag, and it’s a fantastic way to develop a sense of belonging and team spirit from day one.
But we’re not talking about those swag items that break after a week or those lanyards that end up in the bottom of a drawer. We’re talking about quality gear that your new hires will actually want to use. Things like super-soft branded t-shirts, cozy hoodies perfect for those chilly office days, or a fashionable water bottle that’ll make their gym buddies jealous.
These thoughtful touches go beyond simply developing a sense of belonging. They can spark conversations, giving your new hire a chance to proudly share their excitement about joining your team. Plus, when people sport that branded gear outside of work, they become brand ambassadors, subtly promoting your company wherever they go.
2. Tech accessories
In our digital world, tech accessories are a must-have and the perfect opportunity for your new employee welcome kit. Consider including practical items that will make your new-hire’s work life easier and more enjoyable.
A portable power bank can be a lifesaver for those constantly on the move, while blue-light glasses show you care about their well-being and eye health in our screen-dominated world. Or ergonomic accessories like a vertical mouse or a keyboard wrist rest to promote a comfortable and healthy workspace.
Not only are these items useful, but they also show that you’re considerate of their needs and want them to feel comfortable in their new role.
3. Stationery
The next one is often overlooked, but high-quality stationery can make a surprising difference in a new-hire’s day-to-day work life. Think about the impact of a stylish, personalized notepad, a set of colorful fine-liner pens that write smoothly, or a quirky desk organizer that adds a touch of personality to their workspace.
These small touches can elevate their work experience and show them that you care about the details.
4. Welcome letter
A personalized welcome letter is a powerful way to connect with your new hire on a human level. It goes beyond the standard onboarding procedures and shows genuine care and consideration.
Make sure the letter includes a warm greeting, expresses your excitement about them joining the team, and provides some key information about their role and the company culture.
If you don’t have time to create new emails from scratch or if you have too many different departments to deal with, you can use our employee onboarding email templates.
5. Snacks and drinks
Including some snacks and drinks in your company’s welcome pack is a great way to help your new hires feel at home and give them a little boost of energy for their first few days.
Think beyond the standard coffee and biscuits. Consider healthy options like fruit, nuts, or protein bars, as well as a selection of teas and specialty coffees.
If you know your new hire’s preferences, you can even personalize the selection to their tastes.
6. Desk plant
A desk plant can bring a touch of life and nature to your new hire’s workspace. Not only do plants add a visual appeal, but they can also improve their mood, productivity, and even purify the air.
When it comes to what plan to pick, choose a low-maintenance plant that’s easy to care for, such as a succulent or a snake plant. You can even include a small care guide to help them keep their new green companion thriving.
7. Gift card
A gift card can be a fantastic addition to your new hire welcome kit as it gives them the option to choose something they truly want or need. Think about a gift card to a popular online retailer, a local coffee shop, or even a bookstore.
8. Company values
Your company values are the heart and soul of your organization, so why not showcase them in your onboarding kit?
There are several creative ways to do this:
- You could include a beautifully designed card or booklet that outlines your core values.
- You could create a short video that brings those values to life.
- Or integrate your values into a fun interactive game or quiz.
- Or provide access to online training modules that dig deeper into what those values mean in practice.
If you are using employee onboarding training software, you can easily integrate any or a few of these into their training program.
9. Book by the CEO
If your CEO has a favorite business book or one that aligns with company values, include a copy with a personalized note inside.
Whether it’s a leadership guide, a memoir, or a deep dive into the company’s history, this thoughtful gesture offers valuable insights into the organization’s vision and values.
It’s a chance for your new recruit to connect with the CEO on a more personal level and understand the driving force behind the company’s success. Just make sure the book is actually good – nobody wants to wade through a dry, self-congratulatory tome.
10. Subscription box
Take your business’s onboarding kit for new employees to the next level with a curated subscription box. This could be a monthly delivery of healthy snacks, a selection of artisanal coffee or tea, or even a box of fun and quirky stationery.
Not only does this provide a delightful surprise, but it also extends the onboarding experience beyond the first day or week. Each delivery serves as a reminder that they’re a valued member of the team and keeps them engaged with the company culture. Plus, it’s a great way to support small businesses or promote sustainable products.
11. Charitable donation
You can also use your onboarding kit to showcase your company’s commitment to social responsibility by making a charitable donation in your new hire’s name. Choose a cause that aligns with your company’s values, or permit your employees to select a charity that resonates with them.
This gesture not only showcases your commitment to giving back, but also imparts a sense of purpose and meaning for your new hire. It’s a powerful way to show them that they’re joining an organization that cares about making a positive impact on the world.
12. Local goodies
Welcome your new hire with a selection of unique treats from local businesses. This could include anything from artisanal chocolates and locally roasted coffee to handcrafted soaps and regional specialties.
Supporting local businesses not only provides a memorable welcome experience but also helps your new employee feel more connected to their new community.
13. Team welcome video
A personalized welcome video from the new-hire’s team can add a warm and friendly touch to the onboarding experience. Encourage the new hire’s new team members to introduce themselves, share fun facts, or offer words of advice.
This helps the new hire feel more connected to their colleagues and creates a sense of camaraderie from the start. It’s a great way to break the ice and foster a welcoming atmosphere, especially for remote teams or those with members in different locations.
14. Early access
Give your new hire a head start by providing early access to relevant resources and information.
This could include access to online training modules, company intranet pages, or even introductory meetings with key stakeholders. It shows that you’re invested in their success and eager for them to become a contributing member of the team.
15. Mentorship program
Pair your new hire with a mentor who can guide them through the onboarding process and beyond. A mentor can provide valuable insights, answer questions, and offer support during the initial stages of employment. This helps the new hire navigate the company culture, build relationships, and develop their skills.
Tips for creating the perfect welcome kit
Let’s face it, onboarding kits can be tricky to get right. Even with the right products, there are a few employee onboarding best practices you still need to keep in mind.
Make them as personalized as possible
Nobody wants to receive a generic onboarding kit that screams “mass-produced.”
To truly make your new hires feel valued, inject some personality into their welcome package. Consider their interests, hobbies, or even their role within the company. Did they mention they love coffee? Throw in a bag of locally roasted beans. Are they tech enthusiasts? Include a cool gadget or a subscription to a tech magazine.
The more personalized the kit, the more appreciated and memorable it will be.
Avoid generic items
Avoid items that scream, “we didn’t put much thought into this,” because they do little to inspire employee engagement.
Instead, focus on quality. If you’re going to include a company-branded water bottle, make sure it’s a durable, stylish one that people will actually want to use.
Tailor to your company culture
Your onboarding kit is a prime opportunity to showcase your company culture and make your new hire(s) feel like they belong.
Think about what makes your organization unique and build those elements into the kit. Are you a fun-loving, creative company? Include some quirky games or a voucher for a local art class.
Do you prioritize sustainability? Fill the kit with eco-friendly products and information about your environmental initiatives.
Consider both remote and office employees
If you are dealing with onboarding distributed teams, then your onboarding kits will need to be adjusted for each team.
For remote workers, check the kit includes items that enhance their home office setup, such as a comfortable mouse pad, a webcam cover, or even a blue light filter for their screen.
For office-based employees, consider items that make their workspace more personalized and functional, like a desk organizer, a plant, or a voucher for the company cafeteria.
To keep track of everyone’s needs and preferences, use your HRIS system to gather information about T-shirt sizes, dietary restrictions, and delivery addresses.
Don’t go overboard with branding
While it’s great to showcase your company’s pride, nobody wants to feel like a walking billboard.
Resist the urge to plaster your logo on every single item in the onboarding kit. Instead, choose a few key items for branding and let the quality and thoughtfulness of the other items speak for themselves.
Be mindful of dietary preferences and allergies
If you’re planning to include treats in your onboarding kit, it’s important to be considerate of dietary restrictions. Nobody wants to receive a box of delicious goodies only to find they can’t enjoy any of them due to allergies or dietary preferences.
While it’s impossible to cater to every individual’s needs, especially without prior knowledge, opting for universally friendly treats is always a safe bet. Think fruit baskets, gluten-free snacks, or vegan chocolate.
If you have access to information about your new hire’s dietary preferences through your HRIS system or pre-boarding surveys, use that knowledge to personalize the selection and show them that you care about their well-being.
Consider cultural sensitivities
In our highly globalized world, it’s important to be mindful of cultural sensitivities when putting together your onboarding kits. What might be considered a thoughtful gift in one culture could be perceived as inappropriate or offensive in another.
Take the time to research any cultural nuances that might influence your choices, especially if you have new hires from diverse backgrounds. When in doubt, it’s always best to walk on the side of caution and choose universally appreciated items.
Prioritize practicality
While it’s tempting to fill your employee onboarding kit with fun and quirky items, remember that practicality should be a key consideration.
Choose items that your new hires will actually use and appreciate in their day-to-day work. Think about the tools and resources that will help them succeed in their role and make their onboarding experience smoother.
A good balance of practical and fun items means that your kit is both useful and engaging.
Focus on first-day and first-week needs
Think about what your new hire will need most during their first day or week on the job. This might include login credentials for essential systems, a map of the office, or a schedule of their first week’s activities.
You can also provide access to online training modules or onboarding materials through your Learning Management System (LMS) to help them get up to speed quickly.
Successful onboarding, achieved.
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The ROI of onboarding kits
New employee welcome kits aren’t just a welcome gift—they’re a strategic investment in your employees’ success and, ultimately, your company’s growth.
Think of it as a launchpad, propelling your new hires towards productivity and engagement.
And one of the best parts?
The results are measurable. You can track key metrics like employee satisfaction, performance reviews, and retention rates to see the tangible impact of your onboarding efforts.
Once you have that data, you can keep refining and improving your onboarding kits, or use it to prove to the C-suites that it’s a worthwhile investment.
Originally published on: 14 Jan 2019
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