It's 2023: It is essential to make your employees feel appreciated in the workplace from day one. Of course, this will involve much more than a welcome gift, but why not start on the right foot? Everyone likes gifts! 

Giving employees a proper welcome is perfect for immediately showing them how you care. It's a great way to represent the company culture you're bringing them into and a thoughtful gesture. Plus, it's a great way to leave a lasting first impression.

We're talking about going beyond a welcome letter here. So what can you do to build excitement and boost morale for your employees? 

Without further ado, here are some popular employee welcome gifts to get your wheels turning.

High-Quality, Wearable Swag

What better way to say welcome than gifting an employee their new favorite hoodie, pair of joggers, or an unbelievably soft custom tee? Don't gift them just any ordinary shirt. High-quality custom garments are essential. Branded apparel is a great way to have teams feel united and like they're part of something bigger.

Many companies nowadays have employees working from home as fully remote or hybrid teams. Nothing tops having some loungewear to rock while getting things done- the kind of gift worth giving. Once that cozy outfit is out on, this means business. 

Choose your swag wisely; it'll become your employees' new go-to – the threads they repeatedly reach for. The goal is to choose great material, preferably something sustainably made (we know a thing or two about that!).  

Drinkware and Other Office Essentials

Who wouldn't get excited about a custom mug? Or any mug? You can never have too many. It never hurts to kickstart your employee's journey with the everyday items they'll reach for throughout the work day. *back to the coffee machine*

"Office essentials" can include anything from drinkware, notebooks, pens, or keychains - items that add convenience or a little brightness to their day. You want your employees to feel pride working at your company. 

Practical Tech Tools 

For employees who spend much of their day sitting at a desk, consider tech supplies to help make their day run smoothly. Think of a nice pair of wireless headphones, phone chargers, or a portable power bank – tools that can help keep them in the zone with limited distraction. 

Tech accessories are great because they keep people in the zone and help more creative ideas come to life. They promote the "flow" state, if you will. 

A Rest & Recuperation Gift Basket 

Wellness in the workplace has become a commonplace conversation, and rightfully so. It's essential to allow your employees to recharge when out of the office. Why not give them a gift to encourage some well-deserved R&R? 

A beach-ready bucket hat, stylish tote bag, or yoga mat would be great starting points. Depending on what aligns most with your company, you could lean more into gifting activewear or even a gift card for a massage. 

What matters most with this gift idea is showing your full support for their right to unwind. Self-care is a non-negotiable!

All Things Savory & Sweet

Snacks are nothing new or unexpected for gifting, but you can't go wrong with a delicious, edible option. We simply had to include it in this list. However, no one will ever *not* appreciate a gift basket of delicious goodies.

On this same train of thought, a gift card for a food delivery service such as Uber Eats or DoorDash can be the perfect thing to include. Adjusting to a new role can understandably come with some stress, so ordering takeout after a long day will make the transition much more manageable. Food motivation is REAL. Pad Thai, anyone? 

Are you brainstorming your employee gifts yet?

We've shared with you some of the most popular welcome gifts you can provide new hires- now, what do you decide on?

If any of your ideas include the aforementioned custom apparel, we can help. We encourage you to connect with one of our team members and make that vision a reality. 

We've been in the custom apparel biz for over a decade, so we know a thing or two about corporate gifting. Our team will care for you whether you want custom apparel screen printed or embroidered.                                                                                                                     

Plus, we offer fulfillment services. Let us do the heavy lifting. Storing and shipping your goods has never been easier than with Real Thread's fulfillment services. We offer customizable plans for businesses, retailers, eCommerce, events, and more; there's truly an option for everyone.

We’re here when you need us. We’ll be patiently waiting for you.

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