4 New Hire Welcome Gifts That Will Make Them Want to Stay For Years
The average American has about 12 jobs during their working lives, according to estimates from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Considering that works out to about one new job per person every 3 years, that means a lot of us are settling in at, or considering applying for, a new job as we speak.
If you’ve made an offer to a potential employee and they have accepted, they’ve already shown some interest, dedication and level of commitment. But the messages you send—and how you make them feel—on day one can really seal the deal.
For this reason, and since it’s simply the hospitable thing to do, we recommend that you consider greeting your new hires with a curated gift.
What Are New Hire Gifts?
Sometimes delivered as part of an onboarding package, and also referred to as swag bags or welcome kit, a new hire gift is a package from a brand to an incoming staffer to help them feel like they’re a valued member of the team. Ideally, new hire gifts not only make the employee comfortable as part of a team (of possible strangers), but they can also express aspects of your company culture.
Think beyond the basic onboarding specifics, info about the position and company and human resources manual; this gift should be personal, thoughtful and useful.
People love being valued, and when companies or managers are the ones sending that message, retention rates and talent acquisition levels might also increase. But even if that’s not the case, it’s a kind gesture. Wouldn’t you have loved a little something on your day one (if it wasn’t there awaiting you)?
Tips for Selecting and Giving New Hire Gifts
A new hire gift need not be extremely extravagant, but a generic or overly-cheap surprise will send the wrong memo. The best new hire gifts are:
Personal
Useful
Beautiful
Inclusive
Using those adjectives as inspiration, feel free to get creative and DIY. Or choose from one or several of the best new hire gift categories below.
A Hand-Written Note
Even if you share nothing else, this is an impactful (and quick!) new hire gift idea. Whether it’s just from their manager, the company executives or signed by the entire team is up to you; just be sure it’s not too templatized and mentions something that’s unique to that human and what makes them worthy and fitting for their new gig.
Desk Swag
Few people enjoy investing in extra gear to use at the office. Rather than making a new hire order a set of headphones, a laptop case or other tech accessories online, surprise them with those items. Better yet, offer them a digital gift card so they can select their style.
Subscriptions
Is the role something that requires concentration in a way that might be boosted by music? Try a Spotify or Apple Music membership. Or to send a message that you value your teammate’s well-being, a meditation or relaxation app like Headspace or Calm can be a wise choice.
Well-Being Boosters
Speaking of health and wellness, if this is a priority of your company—or your new hire—a massage gun, yoga mat, lotions, tea set or heart-healthy desk drawer snacks can all be strong choices. For high-stress positions, contemplate offering an eco-friendly scented candle, desk plant or other serenity-boosting goodies.
Local Favorites
If your new hire has relocated, this is one of your best bets. That being said, even if they’re familiar with the area, they’ll likely enjoy a bonus celebration of their city. Seek out signature snacks, condiments, drinks or pantry staples, or pair that hand-written note with a restaurant gift card or two. Alternatively, offer something extra to look forward to by way of ticket credits to redeem to see a future local show or sporting event.