First Days Matter Here’s How to Make Them Count
Starting a new job can feel a little like the first day of school: equal parts excitement, nerves, and anticipation.
For HR teams and hiring managers, the question isn’t just “How do we onboard well?” It’s, “How do we make someone feel like they belong—right from the start?”
One surprisingly powerful answer: thoughtful swag kits.
These welcome packages—filled with custom company swag and personalized touches—can turn a regular first day into a meaningful brand moment.
🎁 Why Swag Kits Work So Well for New Hires
You only get one chance at a first impression. That’s why so many forward-thinking companies in 2025 are using employee swag kits not just as gifts—but as tools for emotional connection.
A well-crafted kit can:
- Show your new hire they’re valued before they even log in
- Build pride in the brand from day one
- Bring consistency to onboarding—especially for remote teams
- Deliver delight (and even a little surprise)
Think of it as onboarding with personality.
✨ What to Include in a Great Welcome Swag Kit
A new hire kit doesn’t have to be expensive—it just has to feel intentional. Here’s what many companies are including in their swag kits for employees in 2025:
1. Branded Essentials
Start with the basics:
- Company notebook
- Hoodie or T-shirt (soft = bonus points)
- Reusable water bottle or coffee tumbler
These help build familiarity and offer a sense of unity—especially helpful for remote hires who might not see your office walls.
2. Personalized Welcome Note
It doesn’t need to be long—just sincere. A message from their manager or CEO adds a human touch that says, “We see you.”
3. Home Office Add-ons
For hybrid and remote teams:
- Webcam covers
- Mouse pads or desk plants
- Branded blue light glasses or laptop stands
These little upgrades make a workspace feel polished and cared for.
4. A Glimpse into Your Culture
This is what turns a swag kit into an experience. Include:
- Company values or culture cards
- Stickers or pins tied to internal programs or events
- A mini playbook with fun facts, team traditions, or Slack emojis
🌎 Remote or In-Person—It Still Works
Whether your team is fully remote, in-office, or somewhere in between, a welcome swag kit offers a moment of connection that transcends location.
Many HR leaders now coordinate delivery so the package lands on the employee’s first morning—so they can unbox it just before their welcome call.
A few companies even pair the kit with a quick team video or personal “hello” from their onboarding buddy.
💡 Tips to Make Your Swag Kit Stand Out
- Keep it practical, but fun: Don’t overthink it. The goal is thoughtful, not over-the-top.
- Consider eco-friendly options: Branded items made from recycled or sustainable materials go a long way in showing shared values.
- Let them choose: Some companies now offer a simple “swag redemption portal” where employees can pick their own items and sizes.
💬 Real Stories: How Swag Makes a Difference
One People Ops manager recently shared how a new hire teared up during a Zoom call—because her welcome kit included a small journal with her name embossed and a note that referenced a hobby she mentioned during interviews.
“It wasn’t the value of the gift,” she said. “It was that they remembered.”
And that’s the power of great employee swag—it’s less about the item, and more about the message: We’re excited you’re here.
🎉 Final Thoughts: Make Day One Memorable
Onboarding is more than paperwork and policy. It’s your first opportunity to live your culture out loud.
Thoughtful swag kits for employees are a small gesture that creates a lasting emotional impression—one that ripples through engagement, retention, and word-of-mouth.
So whether you’re welcoming one new hire or one hundred, take the time to make it personal. Because when employees feel valued from the start, they’re more likely to stay, thrive, and advocate for your brand.
