Creative Ways to Welcome New Team Members with Startup Swag

According to Harvard Business Review, effective onboarding “...not only enhances employee productivity but helps increase loyalty and engagement, and decreases turnover.”

Onboarding processes will differ by organization however the main objective is to show your new employee that they are welcomed as part of the team and to introduce them to your specific company culture. According to Paychex.com “The earlier an employee understands what is expected of them and what it takes to succeed within the organization, the more likely they are to become a productive and satisfied employee.”

Creating a welcome kit is a fun and personalized way to immerse your new hire in the company culture and make them feel valued from day one. 

How to start

Start the kit off with basics such as your organization’s employee handbook and benefits information. Adding necessary office supplies and tech equipment will prepare them to hit the ground running. 

We encourage you to take your welcome kit to the next level by incorporating a swag box. Working with third party vendors who specialize in custom product manufacturing will help generate unique, branded experiences and positive company engagement. 

Selecting swag

Everything from customizable metal keychains to personalized patches will make for a favorable first impression. Whether your startup is welcoming artists, developers, marketers, or financiers, we’ll break down our favorite ideas to include in their swag box. 

1 - Patchwork

Company patches represent shared values and help to create a visual identity—allowing your new team member to feel that they’re a part of something bigger than just starting a new job. Whether your organization resonates more with a classic and sturdy leather patch or an easy-to-wear velcro patch, there are a variety of options to choose from. Do you need a fast turnaround? Custom patches made in the USA offer a more efficient process from start to finish, while also supporting local businesses. If you want to use your new hire as an opportunity to give a memento to the whole team, ask your custom manufacturer about wholesale prices.  

2 - Practical and personal: keychains

We love the idea of personalized keychains because they’re convenient and practical. Where to start with making your own keychain? Choose a reputable manufacturer to work with and begin brainstorming. Select a durable material such as metal or rubber and work with your creative team to decide on artwork. Will you include your new employee’s name, title, or department? Perhaps your brand logo or mascot will make for a playful and colorful graphic. Given that most of us have a variety of keys, ranging from car and home to gym lockers and filing cabinets, a customized keychain will surely be put to use. 

3 - Customized pins

Pins have been a longtime staple in fashion, brand marketing and fandom of all types. Design enamel pins to represent your company logo, colors, or values. Alternatively, you can make the pin specific to your new teammate by incorporating their name, city of origin, or special interests.

During their interview did they mention that they love riding their bicycle or cooking in their spare time? Adding a touch of their personality to a cute memento is an easy yet impactful way to demonstrate that they’re seen, heard, and belong. For a more sophisticated touch, consider creating die struck pins which offer a classic, clean, and polished finish. 

4 - Water bottles

Hydration, hydration, hydration. We all know how important it is for our health to stay hydrated. Personalized water bottles are another stylish and practical way to welcome your new employee to the team. Let them know that you encourage their well-being and add their name and start date to commemorate the new chapter.

5 - Yoga mat

Another way to encourage good health and boost morale is to give a personalized yoga mat. Rather than branding the mat itself, you can opt to include your company name, logo, or slogan on the carrying bag. Yoga has become increasingly popular over the last several years and nurturing a work-life balance is a fantastic way to start your employee off on the right foot. 

The role of a custom manufacturer

Remember to choose your manufacturing partner wisely. Be sure to pay attention to quality control, production capabilities, including, quantity and turnaround time, as well as assistance and communication. We suggest working with organizations such as The/Studio, as they offer a full-service, streamlined process from design to delivery.

Why swag works

Again, welcome kits and swag boxes are an effective way to build company culture. Here is why:

• Creates a sense of community and belonging: Many of us connect with tangible goods and welcome kits are a physical representation of your new employee’s value, letting them know that your team is eager to collaborate and receive their unique contributions. These types of gestures increase engagement and strengthen ties to the company’s mission, values, and goals. 

• Boosts morale: feeling valued leads to increased productivity, retention, and motivation. 

• Extends brand awareness: whenever your team wears or uses their branded swag outside of the office, or posts about them on social media, they are spreading awareness and keeping your organization in the public eye. 

Whether you choose to  order soft enamel pins or brand your employee’s warrior pose, custom products and merchandise are a light, joyful, and effective way to welcome your new team member and help create an effective onboarding process.