It’s time for the latest DMJ 1 on 1. This time we take on a big topic. How do we improve employee retention? We all need great teams to do great work. So here are 10 ways to improve employee retention.
New Employee Onboarding
When you welcome a new member to your team, make sure you REALLY welcome them. That first bit at a new place can feel a lot like going to a new school when we were young. We don’t know anyone. Everyone else already knows everyone. They know the culture, the language, the business…and there are already cliques of people that hang out.
As an employer, you can help with this in several ways. First, assign the new hire a buddy. This can be the person that makes sure they know the way around before they know the way around.
In addition, new employee merch can be really powerful. Having merch allows them to look the part even before they feel like it. When done right, new employee merch can help them look good AND be able to do their job better. This is a great way to make them feel a part of the culture.
Quarterly Appreciation Gifts
Businesses know they need to show appreciation to their best customers. Well…the good businesses know it! As a matter of fact, statistics will tell you that 69% of customers who leave you do so because of perceived indifference. Crazy right?
Well, your employees are no different. They want to feel appreciated and recognized. And while there are tons of ways to do this, the best organizations “put it on the calendar” to ensure this appreciation gets done.
One way to do that is to set up a Quarterly Appreciation program for your team. Just set the yearly budget per person. Then divide that number by 4 and you have the budget per item. When you think about the cost of onboarding, recruiting, and training new team members, this can really be a practical and effective investment.
End of Year/Holiday Gifts
The final quarter of the fiscal year often coincides with the end of the calendar year. If you want to go “above and beyond,” this is the time to do it. Make sure your team understands how much you appreciate their hard work.
Oh…and now is not the time to go with Gift Cards. Many executives want to take the easy way out and give gift cards. There are several problems with this. First, there is no staying power. So often, this gift card or certificate never gets used or it certainly gets forgotten. Second, you lose a chance to build culture. When you give a cool gift, the team all use something that shows they are a part of the same tribe. Third, they have to claim it! Now it’s not a gift, it’s an obligation.
There is nothing wrong with cash or gift cards if they are a part of the overall gift, but spend the extra time to pick something your team will actually enjoy and use long term.
Purpose/Give Back/Mission
There is power in a united goal. This can be powerful in creating a bond and a culture. What problem does your organization solve that people can get behind? What non-profit do you believe in or support? Make sure you tell that story before people join the team (to recruit the right people) but continue to tell that story as you move forward.
And yes…you need to tell this story over and over and over…
Pay Structure Evaluation
While pay should not be the only thing that keeps people working with your team, it has to be in the ballpark. We all know this as employees. If we can’t pay our bills, we will not (and will not be able to) do our best work.
Training and Growth
The best employees want to work in a place where they feel like they can be the best version of themselves. One of the ways they can express that is through training and growth. What programs does your organization have to help them be the best they can be?
Remember, if you are afraid to train your employees because they might grow and leave…be very afraid that they are stagnant and want to stay! Don’t know how to create a program? Check out this organization. Crosworks can help you tailor a program just for you.
Health & Wellness Program
Health and Wellness programs not only create healthier employees (as if that is not enough reason), but they also create more productive and profitable organizations.
Harvard researchers found that for every dollar spent on employee wellness, medical costs fell by $3.27 and absenteeism dropped by $2.73, resulting in a 6-to-1 return on investment.
The Rand Wellness Programs Study showed that the disease management component of a wellness program was responsible for 86% of the hard healthcare cost savings, generating $136 in savings per member, per month, and a 30% reduction in hospital admissions.
Create a wellness program that every employee is excited to participate in. That’s a big ask. But if you can do it, it will create a healthier workforce and culture. Yes…we can help with our Total Wellness program. Learn more here.
Employee Merch/Build The Brand
You can always tell an organization where people want to work if they WANT to wear the company gear. Think about it. If you are not forced to wear the company logo, but you do it anyway, you are proud to rep the brand. That’s huge. Not only does it help build the culture, but the branding can help build the company.
Create opportunities for your team to get branded merch. Whether they win it, they buy it, or (best of all) you provide it regularly, having your team wearing your brand is powerful.
Oh…and don’t go cheap. Make this the best merch so they are excited to put it on again and again!
Mental Health Tools
Have you ever worked with someone going through a divorce? If so, you know that they were not able to give their best. It’s just so much to go through. For years, employers acted like there was a separation between our personal and professional lives. And in some ways, there should be. But we know that we have to bring ourselves to work each day.
The best organizations give tools to deal with tough things in life. And when people feel better they do better work. It just makes sense. But many organizations miss it.
What do your mental health offerings look like?
Service Award Programs
Finally, we have talked about appreciation…and this is a big one. What about the people who have worked for you for a long time? Obviously they help create the culture and keep the trains running on time. So celebrate that!
Make sure you celebrate the milestones.
This not only shows them you appreciate them. But it shows the rest of the team that it’s important too.
Oh…and in today’s world it makes sense to start earlier than ever. Don’t wait until they have been at your place for 5 years…or even 1. When people make it to 6 months (or even 3 months) make it a big deal! You want to keep them right?
So there you have it. These are 10 ways to improve employee retention. Use these as a checklist to help dial in your company culture. Want more information? Check out our TARGET HR Playbook here for free!
In the latest episode of DMJ, we had the pleasure of hosting Josef Schinwald, the CEO of Guest Experts on Air. Schinwald, a seasoned expert in the podcasting industry, shared his insights on the art of getting booked on podcasts. He delved into the intricacies of overcoming initial nervousness, the methodology of securing a spot on a podcast, and the importance of standing out as a guest. Furthermore, he discussed the role of social media in promoting podcast appearances and the future of the podcasting industry.
Notably, Schinwald also mentioned his book on podcast guesting, offering a wealth of practical advice for those interested in this field. This article aims to encapsulate the key points from this enlightening interview, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to make their mark in the podcasting world.
Overcoming Nervousness and Anxiety
Josef Schinwald kicked off the interview by addressing a common concern among many aspiring podcast guests – nervousness and anxiety. He stressed that speaking on podcasts is akin to public speaking, and it’s natural to feel a bit jittery at first. However, he assured that with practice, this nervousness can transform into a sense of joy and fulfillment.
He further emphasized that podcasting can be a fun and enjoyable experience. The key is to embrace the nervousness and use it as a stepping stone to improve and refine your public speaking skills. Over time, you’ll find that the anxiety fades away, replaced by the thrill of sharing your knowledge and insights with a wider audience.
Methodology for Getting Booked on Podcasts
Next, Schinwald shared his tried-and-tested methodology for getting booked on podcasts. The first step, he said, is to research and identify experts in your field. This helps you understand the landscape and identify where you can add value. The next step is to find podcasts where you would be a good fit based on your unique value proposition.
He also recommended using tools like Listen Notes to find podcast hosts’ email addresses and reach out to them. This proactive approach can significantly increase your chances of getting booked. Remember, the goal is to position yourself as a unique and valuable guest who can bring fresh perspectives to the table.
Standing Out as a Guest
Standing out as a guest is crucial in the competitive world of podcasting. Schinwald suggests that one of the best ways to do this is by actively contributing to discussions and focusing on your niche expertise. By sharing your unique insights and experiences, you can add value to the podcast and engage the audience in a meaningful way.
He also pointed out that being a specialist in a specific area can be more powerful than being a generalist. This is because a specialist can delve deeper into a topic, offering nuanced insights that a generalist might not be able to provide. So, identify your niche and own it!
Using Social Media to Promote Podcast Appearances
Schinwald also discussed the importance of using social media to promote podcast appearances. He suggested repurposing podcast content into video clips and sharing them on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. This not only increases your visibility but also helps you reach a wider audience.
He further recommended utilizing AI tools to format and optimize the content for each platform. Consistent promotion of your podcast appearances on social media can significantly boost your reach and engagement, helping you build a strong online presence.
The Future of Podcasting
Looking ahead, Schinwald predicted that podcasting will continue to grow, with AI playing a significant role in expanding the industry. He cited a projection that podcasting could be a $130 billion industry by 2030, with currently five million podcast listeners.
He also highlighted how AI technology could enhance the podcasting experience, enabling content in different languages and making podcasts more accessible to a global audience. This underscores the immense potential of podcasting and the exciting opportunities it holds for the future.
Book on Podcast Guesting
Finally, Schinwald mentioned his book on podcast guesting, which is available for free on the Guest Experts on Air website. The book provides practical advice on how to get booked on high-end podcasts, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in this field.
From identifying the right podcasts to crafting compelling pitches, the book covers all the essential aspects of podcast guesting. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to make their mark in the podcasting world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the interview with Josef Schinwald provided a wealth of insights and strategies for getting booked on podcasts, standing out as a guest, and leveraging social media for promotion. It also sheds light on the future of podcasting and offered a sneak peek into Schinwald’s book on podcast guesting. Whether you’re a seasoned podcast guest or just starting out, these tips and strategies can help you navigate the podcasting world with confidence and ease.
Welcome to another episode of Thirsty Thursday, our unique award-winning show where we explore the world of beverages and branded drinkware. In each episode, we introduce a mystery drink served in a specially selected branded drinkware item. This week’s episode is no exception, and we promise it’s filled with surprises, laughter, and of course, thirst-quenching moments.
Your hosts for this journey are none other than Jade, Briar, and Kirby. Together, they bring a mix of humor, knowledge, and contrasting tastes to the table. This week, they will be trying a mystery drink that promises to stir up some interesting reactions, especially from Jade. So, buckle up and get ready for a rollercoaster of flavors and emotions!
Featured Drinkware: Silly Pint Tumbler
Our featured drinkware for this episode is a 22 oz silicone tumbler with a straw from the innovative brand, Silly Pint. This tumbler is not just any ordinary drinkware. It’s a perfect blend of practicality and fun, designed to add a touch of whimsy to your drinking experience. The Silly Pint tumbler is unbreakable, making it a fantastic choice for outdoor events or children’s parties where accidents are bound to happen.
But the benefits don’t stop there. This tumbler is also dishwasher and microwave-safe, making it incredibly easy to clean and use. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a kid’s birthday party, the Silly Pint tumbler is your go-to drinkware. It’s not just a tumbler; it’s a conversation starter!
Mystery Drink Reveal: Beer
And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for – the reveal of the mystery drink. Drumroll, please… It’s beer! Yes, you heard it right. The mystery drink is none other than the golden, bubbly beverage that has been a favorite for centuries. But there’s a twist – our host Jade isn’t a fan of beer.
Despite her dislike for beer, Jade bravely takes a sip and the hosts attempt to identify the flavor. Is it a lager, a stout, or perhaps a flavored ale with citrus or peach notes? The guessing game adds an extra layer of fun to the tasting experience, making this episode a must-watch for all beer enthusiasts and Thirsty Thursday fans.
Reviews and Ratings
As expected, the reviews for the beer are mixed. Two thumbs up and one thumbs down – a clear reflection of the diverse tastes of our hosts. But when it comes to the Silly Pint tumbler, it’s a unanimous thumbs up. The hosts are all praises for its durability, convenience, and fun design, making it a clear winner in this episode.
Whether you’re a beer lover or not, one thing is clear – the Silly Pint tumbler is a must-have item for your drinkware collection. It’s practical, fun, and perfect for any occasion. So, why not give it a try and add a touch of whimsy to your drinking experience?
Future Episodes and Conclusion
As we wrap up this episode, we have some exciting news to share. Silly Pint is releasing new styles of drinkware, and we can’t wait to feature them in our future episodes. From tumblers to wine glasses, there’s a lot to look forward to. So, stay tuned for more fun-filled Thirsty Thursday episodes!
Before we say goodbye, we’d like to remind you that Thirsty Thursday is brought to you by Hasseman Marketing. For more information about our featured drinkware and other products, check out the shop link below the video. Thank you for joining us on this beverage journey, and we look forward to quenching your thirst in our next episode. Until then, stay hydrated and keep exploring the world of drinks and drinkware!
As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
It’s hard to believe it’s already June. But here we are! And in honor of the 6th month of the year, we want to show you 6 promotional products you need to know about. So if you are in the market for a cool (or hot) piece of branded merch that is sure to move the needle this summer…this is for you. Oh…and if you want to just skip all of “the words,” you can head to our shop here.
6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June
Our goal is to show you some timely, and hopefully trendy, promotional products that will hit many different price points. In addition, we will tell you what we love about the products…but also some drawbacks as well. Let’s dig in!
The Coolie Cappy Combo
The Coolie Cappy Combo is a unique and practical solution for promoting your message and keeping your drinks at the perfect temperature. This combo includes a full-color beverage insulator and a handy Cappy can cover gadget that transforms any can into a spill-proof container. The insulator is made from high-density foam to reduce condensation and keep drinks cold, making it great for outdoor events and picnics. The Cappy clips onto the tab of a can, and can be opened and closed to prevent unwanted things from getting in, spills, retains carbonation, and has a key ring hole for easy portability.
Positive: This is a super cool piece for outdoor events with the team or your customers. What we love about this product (or product combo) is that it is a conversation starter. When you give this away it will give you the chance to explain the product and show the audience how much you care. No one wants to have a bee (or anything else unwanted) to surprise them in their drink. This helps protect from that!
Negative: It’s a conversation starter because it needs an explanation. The product DOES come with instructions, but how many of your team (or customers) actually even read an email?
Overall, we really like this because it’s timely (especially for summer events), it’s unique, and it really is useful, once you explain it!
Lightweight Loop Terry Beach Towel
Enjoy spa-level treatment from the pool to the beach with this super absorbent towel! Measuring 30″ x 60″ this, promo weight hemmed 100% ring spun cotton loop terry towel is perfect for budget-friendly promotions and summertime giveaways.
Positive: We are a big fan of Beach Towels. They have a high perceived value, a HUGE imprint area, and they are kept for a long time. Studies will tell you that the average beach towel is kept for at least 7 years. That means that most are kept longer than that. We certainly never seem to throw them out!
Negative: Since the imprint area (and the item) is so big, the setup charge is larger too. It takes a lot to cover that much area!
Overall, we are big fans of the beach towel. They show appreciation and are used for years!
Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Enjoy your favorite music from anywhere. The Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth® Speaker easily clips to your favorite bag, letting you bring it to the pool, the park, or to your next house party. Enjoy hands-free operation with built-in microphone and music controls. The 5W output fills any room with quality sound. It has an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can submerged under water without damaging.
Positive: We have always said, if you can give an item that enhances your customer’s life AND ties to their phone, it’s a home run. This can be both. In addition, we are getting more and more requests for WATERPROOF speakers. Apparently everyone thinks they are going to be near a pool or lake this summer!
Negative: You need to know your audience. If you are spending money on an item in this budget, you want to make sure it’s an audience that will appreciate it!
Overall, we love it! This item speaks to quality, function, and summer fun.
Mini Beachcomber Bag / Tote
The made-for-one personal beach bag to hold your essentials for a day of relaxation. The 15” x 13” size easily holds sunscreen, sunglasses, lotion, flip-flops, a book, and more. It’s waterproof and lightweight, plus it has a comfortable strap which makes for easy carrying. A bold full-color imprint option commands attention.
Positive: These totes are all the rage. Not only are they functional, but they show that your brand is on trend this summer.
Negative: These take some time to get in. They are done overseas, so if you need them in a hurry, they are not for you. There is a BIG difference in the timeline from air freight and ocean…so make sure you discuss your in hands date. But if you are interested, now is the time to order!
If your brand is one that is on the cutting edge of trends, this would be a great and functional piece. Just make sure you order soon!
Pinnacle Recycled Travel Tumbler with Straw 40oz
Meet the Pinnacle, a budget-friendly 40 oz travel tumbler that doesn’t compromise on style or performance – all while being made from recycled materials. Constructed using 91% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel – the 40 oz Pinnacle Travel Tumbler features high-performance copper vacuum insulation that will keep drinks cold 24+ hours for all-day hydration, and a durable power coating with a sleek matte finish that matches the handle, straw and lid slider for a premium, retail look and feel. The 100% recycled plastic, press-on swivel lid securely holds the Tritan straw in place, is easily rotated to expose the drink opening, and features a proprietary lid slider to prevent spills. A sturdy ergonomic handle makes carrying this tumbler effortless, and the slim base fits in most car cup holders
Positive: Everyone loves drinkware. The latest trends show it. And summer is often vacation season. So drinkware is perfect for road trips and to makes sure you are hydrated on the beach. In addition, this product is more eco-friendly than many of its competitors.
Negative: We are big fans of drinkware, so this is tough. The one negative might be that there are lots of competitors out there.
Overall, we feel like this one stands up. It’s great for this (or any) time of year…and it’s got a great price point considering the eco-friendly components. This makes us want to hit the road!
NBN Recycled Outdoor 15 Can Cooler
The NBN Recycled Outdoor 15-Can Cooler has a sleek design featuring an easy-access front pocket and one side pocket. The cooler is fully insulated, and its body material is made with recycled material. Through a partnership with 1% For The Planet, one percent of sales of all EcoSmart® products will be donated to nonprofits dedicated to protecting the planet.
Positive: Everyone can use a cooler…especially this time of year. And with a giveback component, you can feel great about giving a really nice item that will last.
Negative: Hmmm…maybe that it ONLY holds 15 cans?
Overall, we love a cooler for this time of year. Even if you are not going on vacation, you can still use this at home, on the golf course, or on a family picnic in the park. You can’t go wrong with this one!
So there you have it! These are 6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June! Want to see more? Check out our Summer Shop here!
As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
Personal development is a lifelong journey that requires continuous learning and growth. In this DMJ 1 on 1, we will explore five books that offer invaluable insights and practical strategies to help you on your path to self-improvement. These books, which Kirby recommends, cover a range of topics from effective habits to mental resilience, and from goal setting to overcoming self-doubt. Each book has had a profound impact on Kirby’s life and can potentially transform yours too.
5 Great Books If You Want To Grow
Whether you are a seasoned self-help book reader or a beginner looking for a good place to start, these books offer a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. They are not just theoretical but provide actionable steps that you can incorporate into your daily life. So, let’s delve into these five great books if you want to grow.
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
“Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey is a classic in the personal development genre. Kirby credits this book for having a significant impact on his life. It emphasizes the importance of internal dialogue and introspection in shaping our actions and reactions. The book makes you realize that the pursuit of growth is not just about achieving success but also about finding happiness.
Kirby shares his personal experience with the exercises provided in the book. These exercises, when practiced diligently, can lead to a profound shift in perspective and behavior. The book encourages readers to take responsibility for their lives and to proactively work towards their goals.
The 5-Second Rule
“The 5-Second Rule” by Mel Robbins is another powerful book that encourages readers to take immediate action to overcome self-doubt. The book underscores the power of setting goals and writing them down. It explains how our brain has a tendency to talk us out of taking action, especially when it involves stepping out of our comfort zone.
The 5-Second Rule is a simple yet effective strategy to overcome this inertia. By counting backward and taking immediate action, we can bypass our brain’s natural resistance and make progress toward our goals.
The Power of One More
“The Power of One More” by Ed Mylett is a motivational book that encourages readers to push their limits. The book introduces the concept of doing ‘one more’ in various areas of life, whether it’s one more rep in the gym, one more hour of study, or one more act of kindness. This approach can lead to a compounding effect, resulting in significant progress over time.
The book also emphasizes the importance of keeping promises to oneself as a way to build self-confidence.
Soundtracks
“Soundtracks” by Jon Acuff is a book that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and creating positive soundtracks in the mind. Kirby discusses the prevalence of negative soundtracks in our minds, which often hold us back from achieving our full potential.
The book provides practical strategies to redirect and rework these negative soundtracks into positive affirmations.
The Dip
“The Dip” by Seth Godin is a book that discusses the concept of perseverance and pushing through challenges to achieve success. The book introduces the concept of ‘the dip’ – a period of hardship that one must endure in any new project or endeavor.
Godin argues that most people quit when faced with ‘the dip’, but those who persevere through it are the ones who achieve true success. The book emphasizes the importance of intentional decision-making when considering quitting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, personal development and continuous growth are crucial for a fulfilling life. The five books discussed in this article provide practical strategies and insights to help you on your journey. Whether it’s developing effective habits, overcoming self-doubt, pushing your limits, changing your thought patterns, or persevering through challenges, these books offer invaluable guidance. So, pick up one of these books and start your journey toward personal growth today.
So there you have it! These are the 5 books that every person should read if they want to grow personally and professionally! As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
