"He said it's not our last game this weekend - we're not approaching it as that."
Beale had been linked to a Warriors move along with Brisbane prop Adam Blair.
He becomes the Warriors' third signing for 2018 following on from Tohu Harris (Melbourne) and Leivaha Pulu (Gold Coast).
"While there has been a lot of discussion about Gerard coming to the club, we weren't in a position to make an announcement until his contract had been officially signed by both parties," Warriors CEO Cameron George said.
"Now the formalities have been completed, we're delighted to have him included in our 2018 squad."
Beale was born in Queensland but is of New Zealand heritage.
The former Brisbane and St George Illawarra outside back has scored 15 tries in 69 games for Cronulla. He won a title with the club last year off the bench.