Welcome cards
What to write in a welcome card for a new team member
For managers welcoming a new report: a message that sets the tone for the first week and the first year.
Welcome to the team! We were excited about you from the first interview, and we are thrilled you said yes.
HeartfeltSo glad you are here. Take the first weeks to learn; nobody expects you to have it all figured out.
HeartfeltWelcome! You bring something this team has been missing, and I cannot wait to see what you do with it.
HeartfeltWelcome aboard. My door, real or virtual, is always open. Ask me everything.
HeartfeltWelcome! The first rule of the team is that there are no dumb questions. The second rule is that the coffee order is sacred.
FunnyWelcome to the team. You are now legally obliged to have an opinion on our Friday playlist.
FunnyWelcome to the team, we are so glad you are here!
ShortWelcome! Great things ahead.
ShortDelighted to have you with us.
ShortA very warm welcome. We are delighted to have you on the team.
FormalWelcome, and every success in your new role.
Formal
As their manager, your line is the first thing a new hire will look for on the card. Use it to say why you hired them, in one sentence. Knowing what their manager saw in them is the single most reassuring thing a new starter can read.
Then set expectations gently: the first weeks are for learning, questions are expected, nobody wants a finished product on day three. It takes pressure off in a way that a welcome email full of logins never does.
Three things worth getting right
- Say why you are glad you hired them.
- Make it clear that questions are welcome and first weeks are for learning.
- Keep logistics out of the card; that is what the onboarding email is for.
Common questions
What should a manager write in a welcome card?
One sentence on why you are excited they joined, one on how you will support them, and a welcome: "We picked you for the way you think about problems. Take your time, ask everything, we are glad you are here."
When should the team sign it?
The week before they start. Set the reveal date to their first day and share the link with them that morning.
One card, signed by everyone
You have the words. Card Event collects everyone else in one link, with photos, video and voice notes, and no app or account for the people signing.
Start a cardWriting to someone else?
All card wording guides — lines for someone on your team and everyone else