10 Tips
What better way to welcome employees than with a care package? We’ve all been in the difficult situation where we’re starting a new job but don’t know anyone at the company. And if you’re working from home, there are fewer interactions. That’s why care packages are such an impactful way to welcome new employees to the team.
You may be asking yourself: “What items should I include in a care package for someone I don’t know much about yet?” Don’t worry. Gift-giving isn’t always easy, so here are some tips to help you put together a memorable care package for any new team member.
1. Technology
Adding a few low-cost tech items to a care package can be a thoughtful and practical way to welcome a new team member. You don’t have to provide a new phone, monitor or tablet, of course. But a new piece of budget-friendly technology can include wireless earbuds, noise-canceling headphones, a quality mouse pad and wireless mouse, and so many more items.
Give your new employees a head start with a gift that can make their day-to-day experience more efficient and productive with fun gifts they can use every day.
2. Mugs
Given the fact that 62% of adults in the US drink coffee every day, a branded mug would be an appreciated addition to any care package.
There are many different types of cups to choose from. With a little research, you can choose the perfect one for your new team members. In addition to the cup, you can also add a pack of tea or coffee for them to try at home. It can be one of your personal favorites or a popular brand like Starbucks or Peet’s Coffee.
3. Books
If you value ongoing learning at your workplace, a good book is a valuable addition to your care package. Consider a self-growth or industry-related book that will help your new employees flourish professionally and personally in their new role.
Get your employees motivated right off the bat with an inspiring and motivational book. Do you want your new employees to develop habits to set the tone for performance and productivity in the new role? Consider including a performance-improving book in the care package.
A short, good read can kickstart a new career and bring extra motivation to the table for someone settling into a new position.
4. Snacks
Apples, bananas, and oranges are all great ideas to include in the package if you want to stay on the healthy side. Other options include nuts, almonds, chips, pretzels and granola bars. Many employees have a snack drawer, and this is a great way to get them started, even if your workplace values healthy lifestyles.
Drawing a blank on what snacks to choose? There are plenty of pre-made snack care packages to get some ideas on where to start.
5. Self-Care
Self-care is becoming increasingly prioritized in the modern workplace. Encourage your employees to take care of themselves and promote their well-being with self-care items for men and women.
Face masks, sugar scrubs, bubble baths, wellness journals, meditation kits and house plants are just a few ways companies can promote self-care to their employees. There are plenty of budget-friendly ideas to choose from.
You would be surprised how many men care about their hair! If you are struggling to find self-care items for men, consider some popular hair-related products to incorporate into their care packages.
6. Personalized Card
There’s just something special about a hand-written card. Let your new employees know that you care about them with a few words welcoming them to the company.
If writing isn’t your thing, not a problem! You can find examples of how to write a thoughtful card for new employees. Feel free to switch out words and personalize it.
7. Desk Supplies
There are so many options here. New pens, notebooks, staplers, highlighters, weekly planners, folders or even some fun desk decor won’t go amiss.
Desk decor can be anything from picture frames to a decorative clock or plant. Adding personality to a desk can make working more exciting and provide a chance for new employees to express themselves.
8. Blankets
Keep your new employees cozy with a branded blanket they can use in their homes or keep with them at their desks. This is always appreciated by those who tend to get a little chilly during the workday.
9. Gift Cards
Everyone has that guilty pleasure of eating out or stopping by their favorite coffee shop before work. If you have any local eateries or coffee shops that are worth making a trip to, include a gift card in your care package. Respected or quirky local establishments are always great places to start.
10. Branded Apparel
Aside from branded mugs and blankets, adding tastefully branded apparel like t-shirts, sweatshirts or quarter zips is an easy win! This is a great opportunity to add a valuable and long-lasting gift to your care package.
Even if you don’t have branded apparel laying around, this would be a great time to bulk-order some for your employees so they can start sporting your brand outside the workplace.
The Value in Care Packages for New Employees
Any new job can be a little intimidating for employees in the first few weeks. Letting new team members know you care about them with a personalized care package can make them feel welcomed and thankful for leadership early on in their careers.
Not only do employees feel joy from receiving such a genuine gift, but it’s also helpful for creating relationships with new employees so they don’t feel like an outcast. It’s so important to welcome new employees the right way so they have a sense of belonging in a new environment.
A simple and well-thought-out gesture that becomes part of the company culture can go a long way when it comes to happy employees!
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