Case Study: Employee Welcome Kits - Why, What to Include, and How?

A positive employee experience starts on day one with an effective onboarding process.

Not only does well-executed onboarding set the tone for what a new employee can expect with their role, it can positively impact their motivation for at least their first 90 days. In fact, an overall 'good' first week can increase your new hire's performance by more than 20%.

Since onboarding is such a critical first step in laying the foundation for a new hire's productivity and engagement, a great way to help them feel included is through a new hire welcome kit.

Read on to see how you can implement a welcome kit to create a thoughtful, comprehensive onboarding experience.

Why send a new employee welcome kit?

A welcome package gives a personal touch on a new hire's journey with your company and builds upon the excitement of starting a new job.

Especially now, with many teams working remote or hybrid, a welcome kit gives a tangible, favorable first impression of your company culture.

What to include in a new hire welcome kit?

Think of your welcome kit as a way to epitomize your organization's core values or a way to kick off appreciation for the new teammate joining your ranks.

A good example to review is the Ogilvy & Mather induction box. With a goal to extend a warm welcome to new hires and to encourage them to read their mission book before beginning their new role, the team sought to make the experience fun. Before anyone starts, new employees receive a red box containing gifts surrounding the eight creative habits listed in the mission set by founder David Ogilvy.

Take a page out of their book and review your organization's core values, or ask yourself what new employees should know about the company before joining.

How to: employee welcome kit?

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8 Employee Welcome Kit Ideas

Who doesn't like to receive a surprise box of goodies? Just be sure that if you're including formalities like a handbook and written letter, balance the practicality with fun like branded coffee mugs or stickers.

Here are a few new hire welcome kit ideas to help you build your own.

1. A Welcome Letter

Kick off with a personal note. Meaningful details like a handwritten letter from the department manager or CEO will help the new hire feel like part of the team. It also shows professional and personal support as they begin their onboarding process.

2. First Day Instructions

Include some of the logistical information for your new hire's start date, where to report, any required forms they need to fill in prior to starting, or who their main point of contact would be before day one.

If you're remotely onboarding be sure to detail what access they'll need or communication apps they should download first thing.

Or if they're reporting to the office, maybe it makes sense to provide instructions for where to park.

3. T-Shirts, Hoodies, and Attire

Branded merchandise is a fun way to build team culture and establish your company identity, so it's no surprise that swag is one of the best ways to induct your new hire onto your team. Items like shirts or hoodies are also useful for future team-building days, either in-person or virtual.

4. Tech Accessories

While your company might make larger items like laptops or extra monitors available, consider adding smaller tech accessories or office supplies to your kit as well. From headphones to mousepads, the most practical items are often the most valuable. 

Think about including noise cancelling headphones, charging stations, or mobile car holders, all branded with your company logo. You can also purchase in bulk if, for example, your marketing team would like to have those car chargers at-the-ready for events.

Don't forget to grant access or list out apps your new team member should download to prepare for their digital workspace.

5. Wellness Items

Wellness is a priority - from mental to physical well-being. Consider gifting new hires water bottles or yoga mats.

If your organization also provides benefits like gym rebates or discounts for health and wellness apps, make a special guide to encourage employees to sign up when they start.

6. Employee Handbook

Your employee's first day is one part of a new chapter in their lives. Be sure to include resources like your employee handbook, policy guidelines, or who an employee should consult with any questions they may have.

One idea is to highlight important pages they should become familiar with as they begin their new role.

7. Team Traditions

As a fun add on, include a culture guide about your team. Maybe your employees frequent a few favorite restaurants near the office. Maybe you have unique customs on MS Teams or Slack channels. Do you have personalized emojis that they should know about? Is there a bring-your-child to work day?

Adding fun facts (try asking teammates to contribute!) is a personalized way to get someone started and help them feel welcome right off the bat.

8. Your Company's Social Media Handles

Don't miss out on asking your new employee to follow your organization on social media. 

Bonus: Send a Mini Welcome Gift Before They Start

Help new employees feel welcome before they even set foot into the office or sign into company platforms like Slack. It doesn't have to be anything large, but something small with a personalized note is a thoughtful gesture and speaks volumes - your talent acquisition/recruiting team will thank you for the idea!

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Credits to Cooleaf