Onboarding Swag Kit Checklist: What to Include for Remote & In-Office Teams

Creating an engaging and thoughtful onboarding experience is essential for new hires, whether they’re working remotely or in the office. A well-designed swag kit is an excellent way to make new employees feel valued and excited to start their journey with your company. In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down what should be included in your onboarding swag kit, covering essential items for both remote and in-office employees.

Onboarding Swag for In-Office Teams

For in-office teams, a swag kit should include practical and fun items that employees can use both at work and outside of the office. Here are some great choices:

Custom T-shirts or Polos
A company-branded T-shirt or polo is a classic swag item that new employees will love. It’s not only functional but also helps to foster a sense of belonging and unity within the team.
Reusable Water Bottles
Hydration is important, especially in the office. A high-quality water bottle with your company logo is both eco-friendly and practical. Employees will appreciate having a branded bottle they can use daily.
Notebooks & Pens
A custom notebook and pen set is a simple but useful addition. Whether it’s for jotting down notes during meetings or personal thoughts, a branded notebook will always come in handy.
Desk Supplies (Mouse Pad, Desk Organizer, etc.)
Help your new hires feel at home by providing desk essentials. A stylish mouse pad, desk organizer, or even a plant for their desk can make a huge difference in creating a welcoming work environment.
Company-Branded Apparel (Hats, Hoodies, etc.)
Offer a little extra comfort with company-branded apparel, like hoodies or hats. It’s a great way to show off company pride and make employees feel like part of the team.

Onboarding Swag for Remote Teams

For remote employees, the swag kit should be designed to make them feel included and supported, even from a distance. Consider including the following items:

Tote Bags or Backpacks
A branded tote bag or backpack is a great choice for remote employees who need something functional for their daily activities. They can carry their work essentials or use it for personal errands.
Tech Accessories (Chargers, USB Drives, etc.)
Remote employees rely heavily on their devices, so tech accessories like portable chargers, USB drives, or phone stands make excellent additions to the swag kit.
Home Office Gear (Desk Lamp, Ergonomic Items, etc.)
Invest in home office essentials like a branded desk lamp, ergonomic mouse pads, or comfy office chairs. These items will show your remote employees that you care about their workspace comfort and productivity.
Custom Mugs or Tumblers
A personalized mug or tumbler is an ideal swag item for remote employees. It’s a practical gift that they can use during their daily coffee or tea breaks.
Virtual Meeting Essentials (Headsets, Webcam Covers)
Remote employees often participate in virtual meetings, so including a quality headset or a webcam cover for privacy is a thoughtful addition to their swag kit.

FAQ: Your Common Questions Answered

What should be included in an onboarding swag kit?

An onboarding swag kit should include useful, branded items that make new employees feel welcome and valued. For in-office teams, this might include T-shirts, water bottles, and desk supplies. For remote teams, consider items like tote bags, tech accessories, and home office gear.

How do I customize the items for my team?

Customizing items is easy with options for screen printing, embroidery, or engraving your logo and branding. Choose items that align with your company’s values and culture to make the swag kit truly unique.

What’s the best way to distribute onboarding swag kits?

For in-office employees, you can distribute the swag kit in person on their first day. For remote teams, consider mailing the kits ahead of their start date to ensure they feel welcomed from the moment they begin.

How can I make my onboarding swag kit eco-friendly?

Opt for sustainable items such as reusable water bottles, eco-friendly tote bags, and bamboo pens. These choices not only reduce waste but also show your commitment to sustainability.

How do I balance cost and quality in onboarding swag kits?

Focus on practical and high-quality items that employees will use every day. You don’t need to spend a lot, but it’s important to choose items that are useful and durable. Set a budget and pick a few key items that will make a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Onboarding swag kits are a fun and effective way to make new employees feel welcome, whether they’re working remotely or in the office. By including practical items like T-shirts, water bottles, and tech accessories, you’ll ensure that your new hires feel valued and part of the team from day one. Start building your onboarding swag kit today to create a memorable experience for your new employees!