Welcoming New Starters: 15 Innovative Tips for Team Members
Tsvetelina Hinova
19 December 2023
Ever found yourself thinking back to your first day on the job? The thrill, the nerves, and that classic “where do I sit at lunch?” dilemma. Guess what? Your new teammates are feeling the same. And who better to guide them than you?
Think about it - remember when a team member went the extra mile to make you feel comfortable? Pretty great, right? That’s what we’re aiming for, way beyond the usual onboarding formalities. It’s about establishing trust and positivity from the get-go.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or relatively new, how we say hello leaves a lasting impression. With this in mind, join Thankbox as we explore 15 practical tips, tailored for you and the team members, to make every new addition feel right at home.
First impressions count
First impressions are powerful and lasting (fortunately, and sometimes unfortunately). Here, we'll explore how you can create an unforgettable welcome for your new team members.
1. Saying “Hello!”
Forget the standard welcome email – let’s jazz it up with Thankbox! Introduce your new team member to the wonders of Thankbox, a unique and interactive way to send group greeting cards online.
Picture this – your whole team contributes personalised messages, GIFs, videos, and even photos, creating a stylish and heartwarming “nice to meet you.” Imagine their smiles as they receive an e-card brimming with personal touches from all their new colleagues!
2. Unique welcome rituals
Kick things off with a unique welcome ritual that reflects your team’s culture like engaging icebreaker questions or a quirky tradition. You want to show new members they’re joining a place where creativity and individuality shine.
3. Ease into day one
Day one doesn’t have to be all nerves and second-guessing. Plan a relaxed and fun first day, starting with a team breakfast or a casual coffee chat to ease them into their new surroundings. This stress-free scenario helps make them feel right at home.
4. Story time!
Break the ice by sharing first-day stories or quirky facts about yourself. These personal anecdotes boost the chances of developing strong professional bonds. And, it’s always a relief to hear “Hey, we’ve all been there.”
5. Decorate their workspace
Just to be clear, we don’t mean putting on overalls and opening a paint tin. Set up their work area so it’s chock-full of essentials and personal touches like funky plants or artwork. Attention to detail demonstrates your team’s commitment to making them feel comfortable.
Build bridges, not walls
Jump into some simple yet fun activities to welcome new team members, both face-to-face and online. From virtual meet-and-greets to mentorship pairings, we’ll show you how to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Master New Team Member Welcomes with Thankbox
What better way to welcome your new team members than a warm virtual greeting card, which they get to keep forever? It takes seconds to start, and it can build a supportive and inclusive environment that makes every newcomer feel part of the team.
6. Team adventures
Why not throw in your ideas for the next team outing? Whether it’s a trivia night or a nature walk, these outings are your golden tickets to bonding. It’s all about encouraging laughs, high-fives, and building rapport with colleagues. Teamwork outside the office? Absolutely!
7. Meet and greet “magic”
Be the first to say hey during meet-and-greet sessions. It’s your chance to transform “the new person” into “part of the gang.” Share your funniest work story or favourite afternoon biscuit, and watch how a simple intro sparks a real connection.
8. Mentorship moments
Got a mentorship programme? Dive in! Or, why not be the unofficial welcome wagon and buddy up with the newbies? Share the good, the bad, and the “I wish I’d known this!” to help them navigate the early days.
9. Project partners
Encourage the newbies to join in on team projects. It’s the perfect way for them to get their hands dirty (figuratively, of course), engage in peer-to-peer recognition, and for you to gain fresh ideas. It’s a win-win – they get real experience, and you learn something new.
10. Champion open communication
Be the one to break the ice and get those conversations rolling. Ask their opinion, share a tip, or just have a great chat. It shows you’re a team that listens and values every voice. Keep everyone in the loop and practise active listening.
11. The grand tour
Sure, walking the new employee around for intros might seem a bit school-tour-like, but it’s super important in a big team. It’s like a shortcut to “Hey, I know you!” moments, skipping over the awkward “Umm, who’s that?”.
Rallying around your new teammates
As team members, you’re in this together. Let’s check out how to keep the good vibes rolling.
12. Catch-ups and coffee breaks
Got a minute? Use it for a quick catch-up with the newbies. Whether grabbing a cuppa together or a friendly chat by their desk, these check-ins are golden. They’re a way of showing you’re genuinely interested in how they’re settling in.
13. Teach and learn
We’re all about learning and sharing. Did you find a neat trick or a handy shortcut? Pass it on! It’s all about growing together – you teach a bit, you learn a bit – it’s that simple.
14. High fives all around
Did they nail their first project or get through a tricky task? Give them a shout-out! Every win – no matter what size – deserves a high five or a virtual fist bump. Create a buzz and lift staff morale!
Master New Team Member Welcomes with Thankbox
What better way to welcome your new team members than a warm virtual greeting card, which they get to keep forever? It takes seconds to start, and it can build a supportive and inclusive environment that makes every newcomer feel part of the team.
15. Share your goals and dreams
Grab a coffee and chat about what the new guys and gals' career goals are. Understanding each other’s goals will bring you closer – it’s like saying, “Hey, we’re more than just teammates – we’re in this together.”
Final thoughts
And there we go – our 15 top tips to turn welcoming newbies into an art form. It’s not just about formal introductions – it’s about making connections, sharing laughs, and building a supportive environment where everyone lends a helping hand.
So, when the next new face arrives, you’re all set in making their start a memorable one. Remember, small gestures often make the biggest impact. And if you want to go the extra mile, you can’t go wrong with Thankbox.
Create a Thankbox today and enhance your team’s sense of community.
Images: Cover | Man in an office | Two women talking to each other | Women drinking coffee in an outdoor cafe | Diverse businesswomen
