How to Welcome New Employees: Start Off on the Right Foot

If you're reading this, I'm earning money in some way. I was compensated with money and/or product. Thanks for helping to feed my family. I also may have a financial interest in companies named. Please see our disclosure for more information. Also, any advice provided is for informational purposes only. I'm not an accountant, lawyer, doctor, fitness expert, or nutrition specialist. So, talk to a professional before acting on anything you read, watch, or listen to below. Get your own advice and do your own research. Email me at [email protected] with questions.

Starting a new job is equal parts scary and exciting, and your new employees may feel some pressure and anxiety. Those first few days, and even weeks, at a new job are an essential time to make them feel welcome and show them all your company has to offer. Here are some handy pointers on how to welcome new employees.

Clue them in on what to expect

Nobody wants to go into a new situation blind. Rather than having them scramble around on the first day, help them walk in with confidence. Send some information before their first day about anything they should know. Email is often the best route to do this—you can clue them in on what their first few days will look like, provide an outline of the dress code, and mention any materials they should bring with them.

Prepare their desk space

Before they set foot in the door, make sure IT has their desk all squared away. That means the computers should be operational and ready to use right away, and the phone should have their name and number. That way, both your new employee and you can hit the ground running.

Have a stellar first impression

First impressions are essential, especially for new hires. You don’t want them to get a bad impression or start to doubt their new job. To circumvent that, be totally prepared for them when they start. Make sure you can answer their questions, treat them with warmth, and guide them through the training process. That will make them more productive and invested employees in the long run.

Give your employees a swag bag

Everyone likes to feel a little special, especially if they’re a new employee. Reinforce the idea that your company cares by giving them a swag bag on their first day. Load it up with branded products, such as a fun drink cup with your company logo, as well as items they’ll use on the job, such as pens and notepads. This will show them you care and make them feel more compelled to stay invested in your company. They can even use the items you give them to market your company outside of work.

Treat them to lunch

It’s always good to let the new employees leave the office for a bit; treating them to lunch is the best way to do it. It will let them unwind, get out of their head, and get to know you and their team better. Feeling like a part of the team is important, and it will help integrate them into the company culture quickly.

Check in with them often

A new employee can get both frustrated and confused if they’re left to their own devices for too long or too often. Don’t let resentment build up—check in with your employees often to make sure they aren’t left in the dark. While you shouldn’t hold their hand, or constantly pester them, let them know you’re there to help and are invested in their progress. This is the perfect way to welcome new employees beyond their first day.