In this interview series, we showcase how customers from different industries use GroupGreeting to celebrate milestones, build team connections and enhance workplace culture.

In this edition, we’re thrilled to feature Jessica Riggs, Onboarding Program Manager at Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). TxDOT oversees the construction, maintenance, and operation of the Texas highway system. With a passion for welcoming and engaging new hires, Jessica and her team have found creative ways to incorporate GroupGreeting into their onboarding process. From personalized welcome cards to anniversary celebrations, Jessica shares how these thoughtful touches helped build a stronger sense of community and connection at TxDOT.

Can you tell us a little about your role as an Onboarding Program Manager?  

My teammate and I oversee the onboarding process for all new employees.  Our goals are to welcome, educate and engage new employees across the state.  We coordinate and develop New Employee Orientation, communicate with new employees throughout their first year, and provide programming to set them up for success!

How do you incorporate GroupGreeting cards into your employee onboarding process?  

We use GroupGreeting cards in a few different ways.  We welcome all our new employees with a card before their first day; we send a card at their 1 year anniversary; and we provide cards to departments who want to celebrate a retirement, anniversary, birthday, etc.

How does your department foster a sense of connection and community, especially with remote or hybrid work?  

We have regular, division-wide, virtual meetings that include employees across the state.  These meetings allow us to celebrate each other and catch up.  Additionally, we have an in-person conference every 2 years, gatherings throughout the year at local levels, cross section committees, and office days.

What are some unique ways your workplace celebrates employee milestones and achievements?  

In my division, we celebrate accomplishments in meetings, via email, during end of year presentations and videos…and when it comes to 1 year anniversaries, with a GroupGreeting card.

How has using GroupGreeting impacted your team culture at the Texas Department of Transportation?  

I think, simply put, it has made our culture better.  Texas is a big state, and we have a lot of new employees, and this helps people feel welcome and connected.

Can you share a memorable story or experience with a GroupGreeting card?  

We held a focus group with some of our new employees and talked about ways they feel recognized.  One employee shared that she was so touched by her 1 year anniversary card that she printed it out, hung it in her office, and had received several comments on it!

Interested in celebrating a team member or sending thanks? Find the perfect card and create one today!