The Thales Welcome conventions are the focal point of employees integration into the  Group. In 2008 more than 2000 new recruits participated in these events, and in 2009 more than 3000 will be involved. The Welcome Conventions are generally preceded by Induction programmes, in each Division, which enable new recruits to better understand the the Thales skill areas and principal activities. In this way, after three to six months, each  employee has a clear vision of the activities of the Group and of his own Business Line and Division, helping them to quickly feel at home in their new organization.