A hoodie can be like a secret handshake that says, “Yeah, I belong here.” I saw a new employee put one on, smile, and say, “They really get me.” That’s not simply nice cotton; it’s a sign of the company’s culture in what you wear. Helpful hints!
Get going before the first day. A welcome box should show up at someone’s door before they log in for the first time at work. Add a strong mug, a pen that glides over paper, and maybe a notebook that opens flat with a small card inside that lists your basic principles. Add a link to a short, friendly video that lasts two minutes and lets them know they matter, whether they’re on site or calling in from home.
Recognition needs things that get people talking. Backpacks with project pins might help you start a tale. Patches build up on laptop sleeves and make it easier to talk in the hall. A coffee voucher, a cap, or a desk plant are all great inexpensive gifts for peer shoutouts. A lot of little things mean more than a big party that no one will remember next week.
Make it easy and give folks options. A points shop where workers may pick up what they need for the day is a good thing. Some people will choose that very soft tee. Some people need a new desk lamp or a wire pack. Think about the sizes, cuts, and colors they like to wear or use a lot. It misses the mark if it’s merely going to end up in the junk drawer.
Do what you can to be more environmentally friendly. Totes made from recycled materials that can hold a laptop and food. Water bottles made of stainless steel that won’t leak. Add a refill for the pen to get extra points. Write a short sentence about what each item is made of and how to get rid of it. Details show that you really thought about it.
Kits might help you make habits and routines. Put together a hackathon bundle with some delicious tea, crackers, a sticker, and a backup charger. Add a stretch band and a relaxing herbal blend for health. For a day in the office, simple things like a lanyard, a notebook, and a tongue-in-cheek pin are all you need. Useful is usually better than flashy.
Give gifts that are important at work. If you answer a poll at an all-hands meeting, you get a sticker. Tell a narrative about a customer and get a better bottle. Get a new diary after you complete a training challenge. Simple cycles keep the energy up.
Keep an eye on what comes in. Watch scans to see how things are redeemed or show up in discussions and meetings. After a week, check in with a quick pulse check: What did you really keep? Why? Do the hits again and get rid of the flops. Sometimes, the tiniest changes make a big effect.
Allow others to assist make the goodies. Have a contest to design stickers. Put the name of the winner within the item. Be honest: “I love the bottle, but the lid leaks.” For the next version, change the lid but preserve the grip. Every run gets better. Take care of shipping information and comments so that each box feels special and nothing goes to waste.