First impressions matter—especially when it comes to new employees. The first few days at a new job can be both exciting and overwhelming, which is why thoughtful onboarding is so important. One of the most effective and memorable ways to welcome new team members is through a branded employee welcome kit. More than just a box of swag, a well-curated kit helps new hires feel valued, aligned with your brand, and ready to hit the ground running.
In today’s competitive job market, companies are paying closer attention to the employee experience from day one. A welcome kit filled with custom promotional items isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s a strategic tool for enhancing retention, building culture, and increasing engagement. Done right, these kits leave a lasting impression that signals to your newest team members: “We’re happy you’re here, and we’ve invested in your success.”
New employees are forming their first real impressions of your company culture, values, and organization during onboarding. By presenting a branded kit, you're offering a physical representation of your brand and creating a consistent, welcoming experience. These kits help:
Reinforce company culture and pride
Provide practical tools for work success
Create a sense of belonging and inclusion
Encourage early engagement and brand advocacy
Whether you’re onboarding remotely or in-office, the right welcome package ensures new hires feel connected from day one.
The best employee welcome kits combine practical items, branded essentials, and a personal touch. Here are some top ideas to consider when building your kit:
1. Branded Apparel
Include a company T-shirt, hoodie, or hat with your logo. Make sure it’s high quality and comfortable—items they’ll actually want to wear on or off the clock.
2. Office Essentials
Add functional branded merchandise like notebooks, pens, sticky notes, or mouse pads. For remote workers, consider blue-light glasses or webcam covers to promote health and privacy.
3. Drinkware
Insulated mugs or reusable water bottles with your company branding are always appreciated—and highly visible. These also encourage sustainable habits.
4. Tech Accessories
Useful gadgets like wireless chargers, USB hubs, or branded phone stands help equip your new team member for success and align with modern workplace needs.
5. Welcome Letter or Message from the CEO
Personalize the experience with a note of appreciation. A printed welcome letter or a QR code linking to a welcome video helps humanize the onboarding process.
6. Company Culture Material
Include a printed or digital guidebook with your mission, values, team bios, and important company info. This helps new hires feel aligned and informed from day one.
7. Fun Extras
Add a playful or personal element—think branded socks, puzzles, stickers, or even a small plant for their desk. These touches show your brand’s personality and make the experience memorable.
With more companies embracing hybrid and remote teams, it’s important to tailor your onboarding experience accordingly.
For remote teams:
Ensure items are lightweight and shippable
Include tech gear and tools for a productive home setup
Use digital onboarding portals alongside physical items
Consider timed delivery so kits arrive on or before the first day
For in-office onboarding:
Set up the welcome kit on the new hire’s desk
Include branded desk organizers or shared workspace items
Pair the kit with an office tour or team lunch
In both cases, packaging matters. A well-designed, branded box or bag elevates the experience and shows that your company values professionalism and care.
Whenever possible, personalize the welcome kit. A name tag, embroidered initials, or a custom-printed notebook with the new hire’s name adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness. These small touches go a long way in making people feel like they’re not just an employee—they’re part of the team.
Timing is key. Ideally, your welcome kit should arrive before or on the employee’s first day. For remote hires, ensure timely shipping. Some companies even send a pre-start “teaser” item—like a branded mug or snack pack—a few days before the official start date to build anticipation and excitement.
A well-executed employee welcome kit does more than create a feel-good moment—it sets the tone for long-term engagement. According to multiple HR studies, employees who feel welcomed and well-integrated into company culture from day one are more likely to stay with the company, perform better, and advocate for the brand.
Branded onboarding kits can also double as a culture-building tool. When employees proudly use your branded apparel or drinkware, they become ambassadors for your company’s identity—both in-person and online.
A branded employee welcome kit is more than a box of goodies. It’s an investment in your people, your culture, and your brand. From the moment a new hire opens their kit, they should feel excited, informed, and part of something bigger.
In a world where employer branding is just as important as customer marketing, every touchpoint matters—including how you welcome your team. So this spring, as hiring picks up and teams grow, make sure your onboarding experience includes branded promotional products that are useful, thoughtful, and on-brand.
Because a great first day starts with a great first impression—and Serkin Promotions is here to help you deliver exactly that.