Did you know that according to Gallup, only 12% of employees feel they have experienced a good onboarding experience? Onboarding is more than just filling out the mandatory HR paperwork and some training. It's about making your new hires feel comfortable and welcome. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that around 69% of people with a good onboarding process are likely to stay with their employer for at least three years.
That's a pretty big deal!
We're not experts in onboarding, so we can't tell you how to tweak your process to get that retention. However, we are experts in giving gifts - and what's a better welcome for a new hire than a welcome gift?
Think about it: when you attend a conference or event and receive a welcome packet, it makes you feel pretty special! Remember when you were in school, and the teacher would put together little gift bags for your first day? They'd put your name on a tag on your desk and you instantly felt like part of the class. Or when you moved into your first apartment or bought your first home and you received a little welcome gift from the property management company or your new neighborhood association?
The same concept applies to employees on their first day, too. First days are intimidating, and no one really likes being the new kid. A welcome kit will help them feel like they're part of the team, and that you truly do care about their success at your company!
But the big question on your mind is probably, "What does it cost?" Well, that's up to your budget! Onboarding kits can come in all sizes and price ranges. From a simple badge reel with a pen and some snacks all the way up to the more elaborate kits that include a backpack, lunchbox, headphones - you name it.
That probably answers your next question: What goes into a welcome kit? And, really, it can be anything!
Think about what you would want to see in a welcome bag if you were a new hire. A good rule of thumb is to include items practical to their role as well as at least one more personal gift. And why not make it eco-friendly, too? If your new hire's job involves traveling, a backpack like the one below would not only make your new employee feel like part of the team but will also ensure they have a way to protect their laptop in transit.
The Goods Recycled 15" Laptop Backpack
They will definitely need a way to take notes. Instead of boring office supplies, include a branded notebook and pens!
EcoBooks Large EcoNotes Notebook
Clover Twist-Action Ballpoint Pen (and it's made of wheat straw!)
And who doesn't love a high-quality travel tumbler? This is a great gift item to help your new hire feel welcome, stay hydrated, and will bring added visibility to your company, amplifying your brand's exposure for years to come.
40 oz. Pinnacle Recycled Travel Tumbler
So, to get started planning your new hire onboarding kit - give us a call today and let us help you curate the perfect products!