The real estate space is competitive—which means standing out isn’t just about having the most listings or the biggest advertising budget. It’s about building relationships, creating value, and staying top-of-mind.
In my latest video, I break down four powerful ways realtors can market themselves BETTER and more effectively to grow their brand, connect with their community, and ultimately generate more business. We are all about the Relentless Pursuit of BETTER…learn more here.
🎥 Watch the full video here:
Now, let’s dive into these four strategies!
Appreciation Marketing: Stand Out by Spreading Positivity
One of the most underrated ways to market yourself in real estate is simply showing appreciation.
📢 Why it matters:
89% of what we see in the world is negative. That means taking the time to show gratitude immediately makes you stand out.
People remember kindness. A well-timed thank-you note, birthday card, or thoughtful gift keeps you top-of-mind long after the transaction is complete.
How to do it: Send handwritten thank-you notes – Simple, personal, and effective. Recognize important milestones – Birthdays, anniversaries, and home-buying anniversaries. Give thoughtful closing gifts – Something useful and memorable, not just a generic gift card. Reward referrals – A small token of appreciation encourages more recommendations.
💡 Bottom line: Real estate is a relationship business. Show people they matter, and they won’t forget you.
Become the Digital Mayor of Your Community
If you want to be the go-to real estate professional in your area, don’t just sell homes—promote your community.
📢 Why it matters:
People don’t just buy homes—they buy into communities.
If you consistently highlight local businesses, events, and people, you become the trusted face of your market.
You’re not just another agent—you’re the local expert.
📌 How to do it: Use social media to highlight local events – Be the hype person for your town! Interview local business owners – Showcase what makes your community great. Celebrate local wins – Recognize people doing great things in your area. Create engaging content – “Hidden gems in [Your City]” or “Best coffee shops for a morning meeting.”
💡 Bottom line: When people associate you with your community’s success, they’ll also think of you first when they need a realtor.
Build Your Value…Build Your List
Social media is powerful, but it’s rented real estate—you don’t own it. That’s why it’s crucial to start building an email list so you can communicate with your audience whenever you want.
📢 Why it matters:
Social platforms can change algorithms at any time—your reach isn’t guaranteed.
With an email list, you control the conversation and can connect directly with potential clients.
By providing valuable insights, you establish yourself as an authority.
📌 How to do it: Offer lead magnets – A free home-buying checklist, local market report, or “Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling.” Send valuable emails – Tips, success stories, and market updates (not just “I have a new listing!”). Engage consistently – Don’t just sell—provide value, insights, and local knowledge.
💡 Bottom line: The more value you provide, the more trust you build—and that trust turns into business.
Own the Kitchen. Own the Office.
Where are people when they realize they need a realtor? Most of the time, it’s in the kitchen (discussing their next move) or in the office (planning for the future).
📢 Why it matters:
Branded merch keeps you top-of-mind in the spaces where decisions are made.
People may not need an agent today—but when they do, you want to be the first name they think of.
📌 How to do it: Branded kitchen items – Cutting boards, coffee mugs, or high-quality drinkware that stays in their home. Office essentials – Notebooks, planners, or desk accessories with your branding. Make it useful – The more functional the merch, the more often people see your name.
💡 Bottom line: Be strategic about where your brand appears, and you’ll always be in the right place at the right time.
Final Thoughts: Real Estate Marketing That Works
Marketing yourself as a real estate professional isn’t just about ads and cold calls—it’s about relationships, visibility, and providing real value.
📢 Here’s the game plan: Show appreciation. Gratitude makes you unforgettable. Be the digital mayor of your town. When you promote the community, people trust you more. Build your value and your list. Create content that keeps people engaged and informed. Own the spaces where decisions are made. Strategic branding puts you in front of the right people at the right time.
What’s your favorite way to market your real estate business? Drop a comment—we’d love to hear from you! And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing, or creative ideas for your brand, let’s chat! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
Welcome back to another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, where Jade and Kirby dive into marketing, branding, and the little things that make a big impact.
This week’s discussion touched on valuable advice we needed to hear, ways to elevate an event experience, and how AI is helping us work smarter every day. Plus, Dad was right (again), and we’re giving a big shoutout to the Coshocton Chamber and Coshocton Regional Medical Center for their upcoming Health Expo in Coshocton on March 15th.
Watch the latest episode below!
Now, let’s dive into the biggest takeaways!
Advice We Needed to Hear
We’ve all been given advice that didn’t fully hit us until we needed it most. Sometimes, those words stick with us for years, helping to shape how we think and act.
Here are some of the best pieces of advice that Jade and Kirby shared in this episode:
🐕 “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight… it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”
Kirby’s takeaway: This one is all about grit, perseverance, and mindset. It doesn’t matter where you start—it matters how much heart and effort you put in.
🏃 “A body in motion tends to stay in motion.”
Jade’s takeaway: Sometimes, the hardest part is just getting started. But once you do, momentum takes over. This applies to business, fitness, creativity, and pretty much everything else in life.
🔥 “You can’t control what happens. You can control your reaction.”
Kirby’s takeaway: This one was a game-changer for keeping his temper in check. We can’t always control external events, but we can control how we respond to them—and that makes all the difference.
Of course, there were more great insights in the episode, so listen in to hear them all!
How to Elevate an Event Experience
A great event doesn’t just happen—it’s intentionally designed from start to finish. Whether it’s a trade show, conference, or company gathering, the small details can make or break the guest experience.
Here are a few proven ways to take your event to the next level:
🎟️ Take great care of how the guest’s experience begins and ends.
First impressions matter, and last impressions last.
From registration to check-in to how guests leave the event, make every touchpoint seamless and enjoyable.
🔥 Get your team excited about the event (and use merch to do it!).
If your team is excited, attendees will feel that energy too.
Branded merch is a great way to unify your team and build anticipation before the event even starts.
💡 Borrow ideas from other events you loved.
If you’ve attended an event that made an impact, think about what made it special.
Whether it’s interactive experiences, creative giveaways, or thoughtful details, take inspiration and make it your own.
The best events aren’t just organized—they’re memorable. Focus on the guest journey, and you’ll create an experience that people want to come back to.
Using AI to Work Smarter
AI is changing the game in marketing, and we’re finding more ways to use it every day.
Here are a few ways we’re using AI to boost productivity and creativity:
📱 Helping with social media posts – AI can assist with writing captions, generating post ideas, and repurposing content across platforms.
📝 Creating summaries and synopses – Instead of starting from scratch, AI helps us break down key points from past content to create blogs, emails, and new posts.
🤔 Asking AI “What are we missing?” – When working on presentations or proposals, AI can offer insights we may not have considered, helping to fill gaps and strengthen our messaging.
AI isn’t here to replace creativity—it’s here to enhance it. The best results come when you use AI as a tool while still keeping your unique voice and perspective.
Dad Was Right: Life is About Choices
This week’s “Dad Was Right” moment revolves around one of the simplest yet most profound life lessons:
👉 Life is about choices. 👈
Every day, we make choices—some small, some big. But over time, those choices add up and shape the direction of our lives.
✅ Want to improve your health? Start making small, daily decisions that lead toward better habits. ✅ Want to grow your business? Choose to be consistent, intentional, and proactive. ✅ Want to be happier? Choose to focus on gratitude and progress over perfection.
When you realize that your choices determine your path, you start making better decisions. Simple as that.
Shoutout to the Coshocton Chamber & Coshocton Regional Medical Center
This week’s shoutout goes to The Coshocton Chamber and Coshocton Regional Medical Center for organizing the upcoming Health Expo in Coshocton!
📅 Date: March 15, 2024 📍 Location: Community Room ⏰ Time: 8 AM – Noon
Health expos are a great way to connect with the community, promote wellness, and provide valuable resources. If you’re in the area, be sure to check it out and show your support!
Final Thoughts: Better Merch, Better Marketing, Better Choices
This week’s episode covered a little bit of everything—personal growth, event marketing, AI, and even some solid life advice.
📢 Key takeaways: ✅ Great advice isn’t always easy to hear—but it’s often exactly what we need. ✅ Event success is all about the details—plan the guest journey intentionally. ✅ AI is a tool, not a replacement—use it to work smarter. ✅ Life is about choices—the small ones matter just as much as the big ones. ✅ Big things are happening in Coshocton! Be sure to check out the Health Expo.
Now we want to hear from you! What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? What AI tools are you using? How do you make events unforgettable? Let’s talk!
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing, or creative ideas for your brand, let’s chat! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
It’s time for another Thirsty Thursday, where we put branded drinkware to the test—with a mystery drink, of course! This week, Briar Swigert, Jeff Wickerham, and Kirby Hasseman took on the challenge, sipping on something a little sweet, a little bold, and a whole lot festive.
What did we drink? The Cookie Exchange Milk Stout from Great Lakes Brewing. It was like cookies…and beer! What did we drink it from? The Ryze 22oz Aluminum Sports Bottle with a Bamboo Lid. Did we like both? Spoiler alert: Thumbs up all around!
🎥 Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: Ryze Aluminum Sports Bottle with Bamboo Lid
Every Thirsty Thursday, we test out a piece of branded drinkware, because let’s be real—not all drinkware is created equal. This time, we sipped from the Ryze 22oz Aluminum Sports Bottle, and here’s what we loved about it:
✅ Lightweight & Durable – Made from aluminum, this bottle is sturdy but easy to carry. ✅ Bamboo Lid = Premium Feel – That bamboo top isn’t just for looks—it adds a touch of style and sustainability. ✅ Sleek Design – The shape is comfortable to hold, making it a great option for on-the-go hydration. ✅ Good Branding Space – Plenty of room for a bold, clean logo imprint.
This gets the Thirsty Thursday stamp of approval! If you’re looking for a high-quality, customizable sports bottle, check out the Ryze Aluminum Sports Bottle here: 👉 Ryze 22oz Aluminum Sports Bottle
The Drink: Cookie Exchange Milk Stout by Great Lakes Brewing
Of course, it wouldn’t be Thirsty Thursday without a mystery drink. This time, we cracked open a Cookie Exchange Milk Stout from Great Lakes Brewing.
So what exactly is a Cookie Exchange Stout? Picture this: 🍪 Rich, chocolatey notes 🥛 Creamy, smooth finish ☕ Hints of roasted malt & coffee
This dessert-inspired stout is the kind of drink you want to sip on while sitting by the fire after a holiday party. And in true Thirsty Thursday fashion, we all took a taste and gave it a big thumbs up.
Want to try it for yourself? You can learn more about this seasonal brew from Great Lakes Brewing here: 👉 Cookie Exchange Milk Stout
Final Verdict: A Winning Combo!
When both the drink and the drinkware get high marks, you know it’s a good Thirsty Thursday.
🚰 The Ryze Aluminum Sports Bottle – A solid, stylish, and eco-friendly option for branded drinkware. 🍺 The Cookie Exchange Milk Stout – A rich and flavorful brew that lives up to its name.
Would we drink another round? Absolutely.
At Hasseman Marketing, we are all about fun…and doing marketing BETTER. If you need help creating Better Merch & Better Marketing reach out to us! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
Welcome back to another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, where we dive into branding, business, and the world of promotional products—all while keeping it fun. This week, Jade and Kirby tackled some hot topics, including:
🎙️ Podcasts that inspire us 👟 Nike’s partnership with Skims 🆚 Trendy vs. timeless branded merch 📢 Why fancy office gear actually matters 🚀 A shoutout to the Coshocton Collaborative
Watch the latest episode here now!
Now, let’s break down the highlights.
Podcasts We Love & Why You Should Be Listening 🎧
Podcasts have become one of the best ways to grow personally and professionally. They can motivate, educate, and inspire—whether you’re on your morning run, driving to work, or just need a little lift.
Jade’s Podcast Picks: 📢 Mel Robbins – Known for her high-energy motivation and practical advice on mindset and success. 📢 Ed Mylett – A mix of business, leadership, and personal development, featuring some of the top names in entrepreneurship.
Kirby’s Podcast Picks: 🎯 Alex Hormozi – The Game – Straight-up, no-nonsense business advice from a multi-millionaire entrepreneur. 🎯 Jon Acuff – All It Takes Is a Goal – A deep dive into setting and achieving goals in a way that actually works.
💡 Why this matters: If you’re in business, marketing, or sales, podcasts are an easy (and free) way to keep learning and stay motivated.
What are your favorite podcasts? Drop them in the comments! 👇
Nike x Skims: A Smart Play or Just Hype? 👟
Nike recently announced a partnership with Skims, Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand, as a way to better connect with female athletes and consumers.
💬 Jade and Kirby’s take:
Nike’s strategy: They’re trying to tap into a younger, fashion-forward female demographic.
Skims’ role: Skims brings a strong brand identity and a built-in audience that trusts the brand.
Does it make sense? At the end of the day, Jade and Kirby agreed that it could make sense for Nike in the short term as they look to re-make their image in this area.
Final thoughts: The collaboration is bold, but we’ll have to wait and see if it translates into sales and long-term brand impact.
Branded Merch: Trendy vs. Timeless – Which One Wins?
When it comes to branded merch, should you go for trendy items or stick to timeless classics? The answer is it depends—on your audience and your campaign goals.
✅ Trendy items – Great for brands that want to feel fresh, modern, and relevant. But trends fade fast. ✅ Timeless classics – These are reliable, always in demand, and have staying power. But they can sometimes feel predictable.
💡 The takeaway? It’s all about the audience. If your merch is for a younger, trend-sensitive crowd, go for something trendy. If you’re creating corporate gifts or long-term brand builders, invest in high-quality, classic items that will be used and appreciated for years.
What’s your approach—trendy, classic, or a mix of both?
Dad Was Wrong: Fancy Office Equipment Edition 🖥️
In this episode, Jade called out Kirby in the latest “Dad Was Wrong” segment.
The topic? Fancy office equipment.
Kirby originally teased Jade when she wanted premium office gear, questioning whether it was really necessary. But now? Jade stands by her decision—because having the right setup makes her happier and more productive.
The lesson? Sometimes, investing in quality work tools isn’t just about luxury—it’s about creating an environment where you do your best work.
Shoutout to the Coshocton Collaborative 🚀
This week’s shoutout goes to the Coshocton Collaborative, a new space for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators in Coshocton, Ohio.
🏢 What’s exciting? ✅ The sign just went up, and the project is getting close to completion! ✅ It’s going to be a game-changer for local businesses and anyone who needs a place to work, meet, or collaborate. ✅ We can’t wait to see how this space supports business growth in our community.
Final Thoughts: Better Merch, Better Marketing, Better Conversations
This week’s episode covered a wide range of topics, from personal growth to global branding moves, marketing strategy, and workspace productivity.
Key takeaways: 🚀 Keep learning – Podcasts are a free way to stay sharp and motivated. 🔥 Brand collaborations can be powerful – But only if they make sense. 🆚 Trendy vs. Timeless? It depends on your audience. 💡 Your workspace matters – Investing in your environment can boost productivity. 🏢 Big things are happening in Coshocton! – The Coshocton Collaborative is set to be a huge asset to local entrepreneurs.
What’s your take on Nike x Skims, trendy vs. classic merch, or workspace investments? Drop a comment and let’s talk!
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing, or creative ideas for your brand, let’s chat! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
Branded merchandise is one of the most powerful marketing tools a business can use—but only if it’s done right. Too often, marketers approach branded merch the same way they approach traditional advertising, and that’s a huge mistake. Unlike digital ads or billboards, branded merch isn’t just about visibility—it’s about experience, connection, and value.
In this latest video, Kirby breaks down five common mistakes marketers make when it comes to branded merchandise. If you’re investing in promotional products, make sure you’re getting the most out of your merch strategy by avoiding these missteps.
🎥 Watch the full video here:
Now, let’s dive into the biggest branded merch mistakes—and how to fix them.
Obsessing Over Impressions Instead of Experience
Marketers often treat branded merch like other forms of advertising, focusing only on the number of impressions an item might generate. But branded merch is different—it’s not just about how many people see it, it’s about how it makes them feel.
Branded merchandise is the only form of advertising that people actually say “thank you” for. Think about that! When was the last time someone thanked a brand for a social media ad or a billboard? Probably never. But when you give someone a well-thought-out, high-quality piece of merch, they appreciate it, use it, and associate your brand with a positive experience.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Focus on creating a memorable experience with your merch. Consider the quality, the design, and how it will be received—because those factors matter more than just “how many people will see it.”
Choosing Cheap Over Quality
Let’s be real—budget matters. But too often, marketers prioritize cheapness over quality, and that can backfire.
Your branded merch represents your brand. If it’s low quality, flimsy, or falls apart after one use, what does that say about your company? Instead of building a positive connection, it creates a bad impression.
However, cheap isn’t the same as inexpensive. You can absolutely find high-value, cost-effective items that work for your brand without sacrificing quality.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Choose quality over cost whenever possible. Look for affordable but durable items that align with your brand values and resonate with your audience.
Ignoring the Message & Design
One of the biggest mistakes I see is when brands just slap a logo on a product and call it a day. If all you’re doing is printing your company name on an item, you’re missing an opportunity to create something meaningful and engaging.
Branded merch isn’t just about brand visibility—it’s about brand resonance. You want your audience to actually want to wear or use your merch, and that means creating something that speaks to their interests, lifestyle, or values.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Think beyond just your logo. Create a message, design, or theme that connects with your audience. If your merch tells a story, sparks a reaction, or aligns with something people care about, they’ll be more likely to wear it, use it, and love it.
Ignoring Packaging & Delivery
Great branding isn’t just about the product itself—it’s also about how it’s presented. Too often, marketers overlook the importance of packaging and delivery, missing out on a chance to elevate the entire experience.
With the rise of subscription boxes, influencer unboxings, and high-end packaging, presentation matters more than ever. A beautifully packaged product can make even a simple item feel premium and create an emotional impact on the recipient.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Consider how you’re presenting your branded merch. Can you use custom packaging, tissue paper, or a handwritten note to make the experience feel special? A great unboxing experience adds to the perceived value of your merch.
Ignoring the Brand Connection
At the end of the day, the most important question you should ask about your branded merch is:
Does this create a meaningful connection between my brand and my audience?
Branded merch isn’t just about putting your logo on things—it’s about building relationships. If your merch doesn’t align with your brand story, audience, or overall mission, then it’s just another giveaway item that won’t create real impact.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Choose products that reflect your brand values and speak directly to your audience. If you’re in the fitness industry, maybe it’s high-quality water bottles or performance apparel. If your brand is about sustainability, go for eco-friendly promo products. Whatever you choose, make sure it strengthens your brand identity and connection with customers.
Use Branded Merch the Right Way
Branded merchandise is an incredible tool when used correctly, but these common mistakes can hurt your ROI and brand perception. Instead of focusing only on impressions or cost, think about experience, quality, design, and connection.
