Welcoming a new employee is a pivotal moment; a well-structured first day can make the difference between a positive experience and a poor first impression.

One of the most appreciated and widespread practices in recent years is the use of a corporate welcome kit: a package designed to make new hires feel part of the team from day one. But what should it include? And what are the benefits in terms of internal branding and employee motivation?

What is a Corporate Welcome Kit?

A corporate welcome kit is typically a set of materials, tools, and customised merchandise presented to new employees during their first days on the job.

The goal is to communicate company values, provide useful items, and create a sense of belonging. It’s not just a gift — it’s a strategic onboarding tool.

A good welcome kit may include both practical items (like notebooks, pens, and company tech) and symbolic or inspirational pieces that reflect company culture (such as branded clothing, mugs, or customised merchandise).

When Should You Give the Welcome Kit?

Timing is crucial. The welcome kit should ideally be handed over on the first day, preferably during the initial onboarding session.

In some cases, it can be sent out a few days before the employee starts — a thoughtful gesture, especially for remote workers.

Offering the kit right away helps to break the ice, reduce first-day nerves, and enhance the perception of the company’s attention to detail. In the best scenarios, it even encourages employees to share the experience on social media!

Must-Have Items for a Corporate Welcome Kit

The contents of an effective welcome kit should be tailored to your company’s identity, the employee’s role, and the message you want to convey.

That said, there are some key customisable items that should always be included:

  • Customised notebook and pen
  • Reusable mug or water bottle
  • T-shirt, hoodie, backpack or tote bag with company logo
  • Mouse pad or laptop stand
  • ID badge holder (if applicable)
  • Welcome letter signed by the CEO or HR team
  • Onboarding manual or quick guide with useful information

Everything should be aligned with your brand identity and ideally eco-friendly, using recycled or reusable materials — a feature any new team member will appreciate!

Simple, thoughtful items are ideal to reflect your values from day one. There will be plenty of time for more exclusive employee gifts later!

Examples of Corporate Welcome Kits

Need some inspiration? Here are three welcome kit examples tailored to different types of businesses:

TECH STARTUP

  • Branded t-shirt
  • Recycled paper notebook and eco pen
  • Laptop stickers
  • Onboarding manual on a customised USB drive
  • Stainless steel water bottle

Corporate Enterprise

  • Presentation folder with key company documents
  • Premium engraved pen
  • Branded notepad
  • Welcome letter signed by the CEO
  • Elegant fabric tote bag with company logo

Creative Agency

  • Sketchbook and personalised pencils
  • Booklet about the agency’s story and portfolio
  • Motivational poster with brand slogan
  • Exclusive design t-shirt

How to Choose the Right Items for Your Welcome Kit

Want to make your kit truly effective? Here are some useful tips:

Always choose quality over quantity: fewer, well-made items will have a greater impact than many forgettable ones (just like team building!). Consider the practical use of each product — while design and originality matter, functionality is essential. And don’t forget to add an emotional element that resonates!

Where to Buy Customisable Items for Your Corporate Welcome Kit

On Shop for Shop, you’ll find a wide range of customisable wholesale items — perfect for building your welcome kits from scratch. Some of our most popular products? Definitely our eco-friendly cotton tote bags, known for their durability and high customisation options. But also t-shirts, eco pens, and a range of stationery accessories.

With just a few clicks, you can select your items, personalise them with your logo, and have them delivered straight to your office (always with free shipping).

Remember: a welcome kit is a symbolic act of hospitality that reflects your company culture. In a market where attracting and retaining talent is increasingly competitive, crafting a thoughtful welcome experience is a strategic investment.

Design your kit, share your brand identity, and welcome new team members with care and style.