What to Include in a New Employee Welcome Kit

Remember the thrill of back-to-school season? Fresh supplies, the promise of a new beginning—it's a feeling that doesn't have to be only for the K-12 crowd. You can recreate that “first-day” excitement for your newly hired employees any time of year with an onboarding kit that makes a stellar first impression.?

What is an Employee Welcome Kit??

An employee welcome kit is so much more than just the paperwork, office supplies or the standard-issue laptop that come with starting a new job. Instead, an employee welcome kit is a carefully curated package that reflects your brand’s personality and culture, designed to make a new hire feel instantly connected and appreciated.?

The Power of First Impressions??

Creating a memorable first day isn’t just about being nice—it’s about investing in your team. A well-curated welcome kit shows that you care about your employees' experience at your organization, which can boost morale, enhance company culture, and even improve retention.?

And losing a new employee can cost you—a lot. According to a recent study from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) , the total cost to hire a new employee can be three to four times the position salary. Yikes! So start their onboarding experience off right with a gift that makes new hires feel welcome from the jump.?

Building the Perfect Welcome Kit?

Branded Box?

Make a bold statement right from the start. A custom-branded box adds a personal touch and ensures that your new hire feels special before they even open it. If a fully custom box is a little over budget, try using a label or belly band to give the same look and feel for a fraction of the cost.?

For an extra surprise, ship it directly to their home so it arrives just before their first day.?

Tactive tip: Keep the kit contents out of your marketing closet by setting up an E-Shop with Tactive ! We’ve helped everyone from national brands to regional nonprofits promote their brands and causes with stylish, user-friendly e-Shops that streamline ordering and fulfillment—and we can do it for you, too.?

Personalized Note?

Nothing beats a handwritten note. It’s a small gesture that can make a big impact, showing your new hire that they’re joining a company that values personal connections. But even if you don’t have time to write it out, a welcome letter from the CEO or a manager is an acceptable second-place!?

Snacks?

Who doesn’t love snacks? A few tasty treats can go a long way in making your new hire feel at home. Plus, it’s a sweet way to welcome them to the team. Just be mindful of outside temps when incorporating melty snacks like chocolate!?

Apparel?

Give them something they can wear with pride. Whether it’s a cozy hoodie, a sleek T-shirt, or a stylish hat, branded apparel helps new employees feel like they’re part of the team from the get-go.?

Tactive tip: We ask employees for their t-shirt size as part of our HR welcome form so they’re met with branded apparel they can wear right away! Plus, it’s nice to have sizing info on hand for other employee gear needs in the future, too.???

Gift Cards?

Gift cards are a versatile addition to your kit. Whether it’s for a local coffee shop, a favorite lunch spot, or desk decor, a little something extra can make their first day (or week) that much better.?

Ready to create a welcome kit that leaves a lasting impression? Whether you need help designing the perfect branded box or setting up an E-Shop for seamless distribution, Tactive is here to bring your vision to (real) life. Get in touch with our team today, and let’s build a kit that will make your new employees feel right at home.?