No matter what industry you’re in or what stage of your career you’re at, there are certain skills and habits that separate good from great. These are the traits that move the needle in any business—whether you’re building a brand, leading a team, or simply trying to make progress each day.
In this week’s DMJ 1 on 1, I break down 10 timeless tactics that can help you succeed in any business.
These are practical, actionable ideas you can put into motion right away—starting today.
1. Focus
In a distracted world, focus is a superpower. The best businesses aren’t doing everything—they’re doing the right things with consistency and intention.
Action Tip: At the start of each day, write down your top 3 priorities. Tackle them before checking email or social media.
2. Speed
Speed beats perfection almost every time. In business, the ability to execute quickly—whether that’s launching an idea, following up on a lead, or solving a customer issue—sets you apart.
Action Tip: Pick one thing you’ve been overthinking and commit to making progress on it today.
3. Gratitude
Gratitude shifts perspective. When you focus on what’s working—and who’s helping—you build better relationships and attract more opportunities.
Action Tip: Write one thank-you note each week to a customer, colleague, or mentor. Make it specific and heartfelt.
4. Heart of Service
If you want to grow, serve more people. A service-first mindset isn’t soft—it’s smart. People remember how you make them feel far more than what you sell them.
Action Tip: Ask yourself: “How can I make someone’s day better today?” Then do it—without expecting anything in return.
5. Willingness to Learn and Grow
If you’re not growing, you’re falling behind. The best professionals are students first—constantly learning through books, podcasts, mentors, and experiences.
Action Tip: Schedule 15 minutes a day to read, listen, or watch something that improves your skills or mindset.
6. Ability to Tell a Story
Facts tell. Stories sell. Whether you’re in marketing, sales, or leadership, the ability to tell a clear, compelling story builds connection and trust.
Action Tip: Write down your “why story.” Why do you do what you do? Practice telling it until it feels natural.
7. Resilience
In business, you will get knocked down. The key is getting back up faster and stronger. Resilience builds reputation, confidence, and character.
Action Tip: Create a “resilience folder” filled with positive feedback, testimonials, and small wins. Review it when you need a boost.
8. Clarity of Communication
Confused customers don’t buy. And unclear communication with your team creates chaos. The clearer you are, the more effective you become.
Action Tip: Audit your email signature, bio, and elevator pitch. Can a stranger easily understand what you do and how you help?
9. Follow-Through
Great ideas are everywhere. What’s rare? Execution. The people who follow through consistently are the ones who win.
Action Tip: At the end of every meeting, write down one follow-up task and schedule it before moving on.
10. Creativity
Creativity isn’t just for designers. It’s for problem-solvers, leaders, and anyone who wants to stand out in a noisy marketplace.
Action Tip: Take a walk without your phone this week. Let your brain wander and write down 3 new ideas—even if they feel wild.
Final Thoughts
These 10 tactics are simple, but don’t underestimate them. When you put them into practice consistently, they compound into serious results.
The best part? You don’t need to master all 10 today. Pick one or two, start small, and build from there.
Because in any business, success isn’t just about what you know. It’s about what you do.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
We’re back! After wrapping up Season 1, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman are kicking off Season 2 of Better Merch…Better Marketing with fresh stories, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way. From big life changes to bold PR moves, this episode is full of practical takeaways (and a really cool product you’ll want to see).
Here’s what we covered in this week’s episode:
Big Changes in July
July brought big shifts for both Jade and Kirby.
Jade made a major move, relocating from Colorado to Georgia. In the episode, she shares what it’s been like to transition both personally and professionally, including the adjustments she’s making in a brand-new environment.
Kirby, on the other hand, spent the month “out of the office.” He didn’t completely disconnect from work but intentionally pulled back from his usual pace. He shares what worked (recharging and finding clarity) and what didn’t (because, let’s be honest, unplugging from a busy schedule isn’t always smooth).
The lesson? Sometimes you need to step back—or shake things up—to see your business (and your life) from a fresh perspective.
A Brilliant PR Move from Astronomer
We couldn’t resist talking about the story that took social media by storm: Astronomer’s CEO and HR director unexpectedly going viral after being caught on the “kiss cam” at a Coldplay concert. Instead of ignoring it, the company leaned in with humor and creativity—bringing in Gwyneth Paltrow as their temporary spokesperson to address the attention.
And it worked.
Both Jade and Kirby agreed: this was PR done right. It was smart, funny, and most importantly, human. It’s a great reminder that not every “crisis” is a crisis. Sometimes, if you embrace the moment with authenticity, it can turn into a win.
Instagram is Becoming a Search Platform
Jade led a fascinating discussion on Instagram’s shift toward becoming more of a search platform—and what that means for marketers.
Instead of just pretty pictures and short captions, users are now treating Instagram like a mini search engine. That means captions, keywords, and descriptions matter more than ever.
Some of the key tips we discussed:
Write captions with searchable terms that match what your audience is looking for.
Consider the questions people are asking and use your posts to answer them.
Don’t just post for aesthetics—think about discoverability.
If you’re using Instagram for business, it’s time to optimize not just for likes but for searchability.
Product of the Week: EZ Breezy Neck Fan
When it’s hot outside, you don’t just want to cool off—you need to. That’s why our Product of the Week is the EZ Breezy Neck Fan from HPG.
This hands-free fan is rechargeable, lightweight, and perfect for events, outdoor work, or simply surviving summer. It’s also a fantastic branded merch option because it’s useful, fun, and attention-grabbing—the kind of thing people will thank you for.
Shout Out of the Week: Coshocton Economic Development Win
Finally, we ended the episode with a huge shout out to the Coshocton Port Authority, Ohio SE, the Ohio Department of Development, and everyone involved in securing a $58.7 million grant for the old AEP site in Coshocton County.
This funding will help build out the infrastructure to make the site ready for future economic development projects—an incredible step forward for the local community.
This is a huge win for Coshocton County, and it’s a great example of what happens when local leaders, state agencies, and development organizations work together.
Final Thoughts
Season 2 is off to a strong start. From personal growth to smart PR strategies, from Instagram’s evolution to innovative branded products, this episode is packed with value—and plenty of reasons to get excited about what’s next.
Be sure to watch the full episode above, and if you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s the time. Season 2 is going to be even bigger, better, and more insightful.
And if you’re battling the summer heat? Get yourself an EZ Breezy Neck Fan. Trust us.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
It’s time for another round of Thirsty Thursday with Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie), Briar Swigert from Simple Signs & Print, and Kirby Hasseman! If you’ve been following along, you know the rules by now: we take a piece of branded drinkware, pour in a mystery drink, and give you our honest—and usually hilarious—reactions.
This week’s episode brought great drinkware, a surprising beverage, and a lot of fruity flavor guesses.
The Drinkware: Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler
This week, we featured the Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler from our friends at PCNA.
This tumbler is the perfect combination of style, function, and value. Made from recycled materials, it’s an eco-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. With its sleek design, comfortable feel, and excellent price point, it’s the kind of drinkware that’s ideal for giveaways, employee appreciation gifts, or even stocking your breakroom.
We especially loved:
The sustainable, recycled construction
The comfortable 16oz size—perfect for coffee, water, or a mystery drink!
The value: this is a budget-friendly product that still feels premium
When you’re looking for a practical piece of branded merch that people will use every day, this one checks all the boxes.
The Mystery Drink: Cider Boys Melon Mojito
Now, onto the fun part. The drink inside the tumbler was the Cider Boys Melon Mojito.
When we first took a sip, the initial reactions were mostly positive. It’s light, refreshing, and fruity with just the right amount of sweetness. But the real entertainment started when we began guessing the flavors.
Briar and Jade started throwing out so many fruit guesses that Kirby finally joked, “This must be a health drink!” From melon to citrus to mint, the conversation turned into a full-on fruit salad of speculation.
When the big reveal came—Cider Boys Melon Mojito—we all had to laugh. It made sense. The subtle blend of melon and mint gave it a unique profile that felt tropical, fun, and perfect for summer.
And the verdict? A solid thumbs up from all three of us.
Why We Love Doing This
Beyond the laughs and taste tests, Thirsty Thursday is about something bigger: showing how branded drinkware can make an impact. When you hand someone a product like the Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler, you’re not just giving them a cup—you’re giving them a piece of your brand that they’ll see and use over and over again.
This tumbler is a perfect example of what we love about great merch:
It’s practical and has a purpose
It’s affordable but doesn’t feel “cheap”
It’s an eco-friendly option that aligns with modern values
Pair that with a fun episode featuring a tasty drink, and you’ve got a recipe for another classic Thirsty Thursday.
Want to Get This Tumbler for Your Brand?
If you want your customers or team members to enjoy a branded product they’ll actually use, the Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler is a fantastic option. With its eco-friendly appeal and everyday practicality, it’s the kind of item that turns a one-time giveaway into long-term brand impressions.
A mystery drink that kept us guessing (and laughing)
Another reason to love branded merchandise that’s both useful and fun
The Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler got a big thumbs up from the crew, and the Cider Boys Melon Mojito was a hit too. If you haven’t watched the episode yet, make sure you do—you’ll see all the fruity flavor guesses and plenty of laughs.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Thirsty Thursday, where we’ll bring more drinkware, more mystery drinks, and more fun. Until then, grab your tumbler, pour yourself a drink, and keep delivering marketing joy!
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
COSHOCTON, OH – July 25, 2025 — Hasseman Marketing is proud to announce that Jade Crider, affectionately known as our “Branding Bestie,” has officially earned her Certified Advertising Specialist (CAS) designation from PPAI, the promotional product industry’s leading professional association.
The CAS designation is the second level in PPAI’s respected four-tier certification program. It represents a significant commitment to professional development in the branded merchandise space. Candidates must first complete the Trained Advertising Specialist (TAS) certification, followed by a series of required courses and 42 elective CEUs designed to deepen their expertise across marketing, product safety, business ethics, and industry-specific knowledge.
“Getting my CAS was about more than just checking a box,” said Jade. “I’m passionate about helping brands stand out with thoughtful, effective merchandise. This certification was an investment in making sure I’m equipped with the tools and knowledge to bring real strategy and value to our clients.”
At Hasseman Marketing, ongoing education is not just encouraged—it’s embedded in our culture. We believe that the best way to serve our customers is by staying ahead of the curve, learning continuously, and investing in our team’s growth.
“Jade’s achievement underscores what makes her such a valuable part of our team,” said Kirby Hasseman, CEO of Hasseman Marketing. “She brings energy, creativity, and now, even more industry expertise to every client interaction. We’re incredibly proud of her for putting in the work and earning this recognition.”
The CAS designation isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about credibility. It reflects Jade’s deep commitment to becoming one of the top branded merchandise professionals in the industry, and it reinforces Hasseman Marketing’s dedication to raising the bar for excellence.
To learn more about Hasseman Marketing and how our team helps businesses grow through smart branded merchandise and marketing strategy, visit www.HassemanMarketing.com.
When most people think about branded merchandise, they picture giveaways at trade shows or customer appreciation gifts. But some of the most powerful marketing doesn’t happen externally—it starts inside your own organization.
Today, let’s flip the script. We’re not talking about giving merch to your customers. We’re talking about using merch internally to build something even more valuable: your company culture.
Your First Audience is Your Team
Here’s the truth: if your employees don’t believe in your brand, your customers won’t either. Culture is not a buzzword. It’s the emotional glue that keeps your team aligned, motivated, and moving in the same direction.
That’s why internal branding matters. It helps your team feel connected to something bigger than themselves. And branded merch can play a surprisingly powerful role in that.
In a world of remote work, hybrid offices, and constant change, building a sense of unity isn’t optional—it’s essential. Branded merchandise can be the physical thread that ties your people together, no matter where they are.
How Branded Merch Builds Culture
Let’s break down a few ways internal merch can make an impact:
It Creates a Sense of Team
When your team wears the same logo, there’s a shift. It says, “I’m part of this.” Matching apparel, custom gear, or desk drops aren’t just swag—they’re signals. They foster identity, pride, and camaraderie.
Think about sports teams. Uniforms matter. Your company is no different.
It Reinforces Your Values
Merch is a powerful tool to bring your mission and values to life—visually and tangibly. Are you an eco-conscious brand? Give out high-quality, reusable drinkware made from recycled materials. Is innovation your thing? Deliver sleek, smart tech products that reflect that mindset.
Every item becomes a storytelling device. When done well, it communicates who you are without saying a word.
It Recognizes and Rewards
Merch is a fantastic way to say “I see you.” Whether it’s for work anniversaries, birthdays, performance milestones, or just a surprise thank-you—thoughtful gifts boost morale and make your people feel appreciated.
And here’s the secret: when people feel seen, they’re more likely to stick around and bring their best selves to work.
It Creates Excitement During Key Moments
First days, big meetings, new product launches, culture initiatives—all of these are opportunities to rally your team. A well-timed merch drop turns routine events into memorable experiences.
You’re not just handing out stuff. You’re marking the moment.
What Kind of Internal Merch Works?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but here are some tried-and-true ideas:
Onboarding Kits: Make that first day feel like a warm welcome.
Employee Appreciation Gifts: Thoughtful, useful, and on-brand.
Seasonal Drops: Holiday gifts, summer gear, or winter wellness kits.
Sales Incentives: Reward performance with items they’ll be proud to use.
Team Uniforms: Polished apparel for events, client meetings, or just day-to-day branding.
Remote Work Kits: Branded mugs, notebooks, or ring lights for your WFH warriors.
Tips to Do It Right
If you want your internal branding to land well, here are a few quick pointers:
Let your team vote on items or designs—it builds anticipation and ownership.
Make it wearable or useful. No one wants another junk drawer item.
Invest in quality. A cheap hoodie doesn’t feel like a gift. A premium piece makes people feel valued.
Presentation matters. Package it with care and intention. This isn’t a handout—it’s a culture-builder.
Your Call to Action
Here’s your challenge: Take a hard look at your internal brand. Is it alive and well inside your company—or only visible to the outside world?
If you want a high-performing team, start by helping them feel like they belong. And you don’t need to launch a massive program. Start small. Create one drop. Celebrate one moment. Build from there.
Because when your people believe in your brand, they don’t just work for you—they advocate for you.
Final Thought: Your internal culture drives your external results. Merch can help make that culture visible, tangible, and unforgettable.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
We’re back with another fun-filled and refreshingly ridiculous episode of Thirsty Thursday! This week, Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie), Briar Swigert from Simple Signs & Print, and Kirby Hasseman take on another mystery drink—served in a sleek new piece of branded drinkware that we’re excited to talk about.
The Drinkware: Quenching in Style
This week, we raised our glasses (literally) to the 40 oz Quencher Collection from our friends at Glass America. You can check it out here: 40 oz Quencher Collection
Let’s just say… we were impressed.
This thing is sturdy. It’s the kind of cup that makes a statement on your desk, in your car, or at your next event. It’s insulated, stylish, and keeps your drink cold—plus it comes with a reusable straw that always works. That’s where the title of this episode comes in: How Often Do Straws Work? (You’ll have to watch the video to fully appreciate that inside joke.)
In terms of branding, the Quencher is a strong choice. With its large imprint area and trendy design, it’s the kind of merch your customers will actually use—and say thank you for. Whether you’re creating a premium gift or elevating your event swag, this is a piece that adds real value. Again…learn more or order for your next event here.
The Mystery Drink: St Julian Grape Punch
This week’s mystery drink was the St Julian Grape Punch, and let us tell you… it packs a punch.
With a rich, bold grape flavor and an impressive 20% alcohol content, this is one of those “sneaks up on you” beverages. It tastes like nostalgia in a glass—think grown-up grape juice with a serious kick. And the entire crew was in agreement: this one’s a hit.
Jade, Briar, and Kirby all gave this drink a solid thumbs-up. Just a heads-up… this is not a “sip all day” kind of drink unless you want your Thursday to turn into a very early Friday. Respect the punch!
Bonus Clip Alert
Make sure to stick around to the very end of this week’s episode—there’s a bonus clip that gives you a behind-the-scenes laugh you won’t want to miss. We always try to bring you the real, unscripted fun of marketing, branded merch, and of course—taste-testing new concoctions. This week delivers on all fronts.
Why It Matters (Yes, Even This)
At first glance, Thirsty Thursday might just seem like a silly, lighthearted video series—and it is. But at its core, it’s about testing branded merch in real-life situations. We’re not just reading product descriptions or flipping through catalogs. We’re holding it, using it, and yes… drinking from it.
That gives us (and you) valuable insight into what’s actually going to make an impact for your customers. Because when it comes to branded merchandise, practicality meets personality. And when you can create something memorable and useful, you win.
Want to Explore More Drinkware?
If you’re enjoying the drinkware featured on Thirsty Thursday, we’ve got a full collection of favorites waiting for you in our Thirsty Thursday shop. You can browse the full lineup here:
Whether you’re building kits, creating gifts, or just want to make sure your brand ends up on someone’s desk instead of in the trash—drinkware is always a great place to start.
Final Thoughts
This week’s Thirsty Thursday had it all: a show-stopping piece of drinkware, a deliciously deceptive beverage, and plenty of laughs to go around. As always, thanks for coming along for the ride. We hope it inspires you to think differently about the power of branded merch—and have a little fun in the process.
Stay tuned for next week’s episode and remember: Marketing should be fun. And maybe a little boozy too.
Let us know what drinkware (or mystery drink!) you want us to try next. Cheers!
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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.
