When most businesses think about marketing, their focus is on new customers. And that makes sense—you need to keep growing and reaching fresh audiences. But here’s the truth: the most overlooked audience for most organizations is their current customer base.
Why Appreciation Marketing Works
Your existing customers are not only more likely to buy from you again, but they tend to buy faster and more. Yet, too often, they get the least attention. That’s where appreciation marketing comes in.
This isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about gratitude that scales. It’s about building relationships that last. And when you do it right, appreciation marketing becomes one of the most powerful branding tools you can use.
Let’s dig into seven ways to build your brand through appreciation marketing.
1. Send Thank You Notes
It sounds simple because it is—but that’s also why it works. A handwritten thank-you note cuts through the noise in a digital world. Everyone knows they should send them, but very few actually do.
Pro tip: Keep a stack of cards and envelopes on your desk so it’s easy to act on this right away.
2. Create an Appreciation Program
Want to make appreciation consistent? Build a program for it.
Once a quarter, go to your best clients—the top 20% that drive most of your revenue—and show them you care. It could be a thoughtful gift, a great piece of branded merch, or even a personalized gesture that keeps your brand in front of them all year long.
This isn’t just gratitude—it’s smart branding.
3. Make It Feel Like a Gift
One of the most powerful things about appreciation marketing is that it’s the only kind of marketing people will thank you for.
When you give a useful, well-designed branded item, it doesn’t feel like an advertisement—it feels like a gift. And that gift creates goodwill and long-lasting impressions.
4. Appreciate Your Team Too
It’s not just about clients. Showing appreciation to your team creates a ripple effect.
Happy, valued employees create better customer experiences. When you take care of your people—whether that’s with recognition, thank-you merch, or simple acknowledgment—you’re really taking care of your customers, too.
5. Use Gratitude as a Follow-Up Tool
Most people say thank you after a win. But what if you said thank you for the opportunity—even if you didn’t close the deal?
That kind of appreciation sets you apart. It leaves the door open for future opportunities and shows your brand has heart.
6. Show Up Just Because
At Hasseman Marketing, we say: “Show up when you’re not asking for money.”
It’s easy to show gratitude when you’re closing a deal. But the moments that really matter are the ones in between—the “just because” touches that show you care even when there’s nothing in it for you right now.
7. Turn Appreciation into a Referral Engine
Gratitude and referrals go hand in hand.
When a customer gives you a great review, thank them—and then take the next step:
“Is there anyone like you who would also appreciate this service or product?”
Sweeten it with a reward, like a t-shirt or another piece of merch, and suddenly you’ve created a simple but powerful referral machine fueled by appreciation.
Final Thoughts
Appreciation marketing isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a brand builder. It deepens relationships, drives loyalty, and can even create new opportunities.
When you scale gratitude, you scale impact. And in the process, you make your brand unforgettable.
So here’s the challenge: what can you do this week to show appreciation to a client, a team member, or even a prospect? Start small, stay consistent, and watch how it transforms your brand.
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!
On the latest episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade cover a little bit of everything—from marketing brilliance and intentional branding to downright strange Gen Z TikTok trends. This week’s conversation is packed with insights, laughs, and a few ideas you might just be able to steal for your own business.
Taylor Swift’s Strategic Brilliance
The episode kicked off with Taylor Swift’s latest headline-making move—announcing her new album on the New Heights podcast with Travis and Jason Kelce. Jade pointed out the sheer intentionality in Swift’s marketing. Nothing she does is accidental, and this was yet another masterclass in audience targeting and platform choice.
Kirby agreed and took the discussion further, highlighting the importance and power of building your own audience. Swift can make a splash anywhere because she’s spent years cultivating a loyal fanbase. Whether you’re a music icon or a small business owner, the takeaway is the same—focus on your audience, connect with them consistently, and they’ll follow you anywhere.
Big Brands, Big Ideas
From music megastars, the conversation shifted to some impressive campaigns from big brands. Kirby brought up McDonald’s recent rollout of their chicken strips—a campaign that leaned heavily into nano-influencers. Instead of chasing massive celebrity endorsements, they partnered with local foodies to create authentic, relatable reviews. The result? Other influencers picked up on the trend, and social media was buzzing.
The lesson here for small businesses: you don’t need a huge budget to make an impact. Find the people in your community who already have influence in your niche and collaborate with them in fun, creative ways.
Jade chimed in with another example—Mattel’s successful rebranding of Barbie through the blockbuster Barbie movie. It was a perfect case of modernizing a legacy brand for a new audience while staying true to its core identity.
Brain-Rot Marketing for Gen Z
Not all marketing trends get a thumbs up from our hosts. Jade shared a phenomenon she’s been seeing on TikTok—what she calls “brain-rot marketing.” Brands like Pine-Sol and Nutter Butter are creating bizarre, random videos designed to grab attention and go viral with younger audiences.
While Jade found it fascinating and worth noting, Kirby wasn’t convinced. He admitted that he didn’t “get” it and worried that, while it might rack up views, it might not actually convert into long-term brand loyalty.
Product of the Week: Glass Jar Candle from Numo
This week’s Product of the Week comes from Numo—a beautiful Glass Jar Candle with Lid and direct print decoration. You can check it out here.
It’s a perfect example of branded merch that people actually use and enjoy. Candles work across industries, are universally appealing, and can be customized to reflect your brand’s personality and scent preferences.
Shout Out: Local Festivals in Coshocton County
The episode wrapped up with a nod to some exciting local happenings—the Coshocton Dog Fest and the Roscoe Village Food Truck Festival happening this weekend. Both events bring the community together, support local vendors, and give people a reason to get out and explore.
Final Thoughts
From Swift’s calculated moves to McDonald’s nano-influencer magic, this episode proves that great marketing can come from anywhere—and not all of it will make sense to everyone. The key is knowing your audience, meeting them where they are, and being intentional about every move you make.
Whether you’re running a small local business or managing a global brand, there’s something in this episode for you. Tune in, take notes, and maybe even light a candle while you listen.
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!
Thirsty Thursday is back, and this week Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie), Briar Swigert (from Simple Signs & Print), and Kirby Hasseman gathered around the table to test out another mystery drink from a brand-new piece of branded merch. And let’s just say—we found a new travel mug we’re really excited about. Watch now!
This time, our friends at Bel Promo sent us the Lotus 23 oz Travel Mug, and right out of the box, it was a hit. Everyone agreed this piece had that perfect balance we’re always looking for—quality and affordability. It feels sturdy in your hand, keeps drinks at the right temperature, and looks sharp enough to take anywhere. In a world where travel mugs are everywhere, the Lotus stands out for giving off that premium vibe without the premium price tag.
Of course, no Thirsty Thursday is complete without a drink to test it with. This week’s mystery beverage? “Love Ya Bye” from Saucy Brew Works. And here’s where the reviews got a little… mixed.
Jade’s take: Hard pass. She made it clear this wasn’t her kind of drink—mostly because it was beer. If beer isn’t your thing, this one probably won’t convert you.
Briar’s opinion: Pretty solid! He enjoyed the flavor and thought it paired well with the mug’s ability to keep it chilled.
Kirby’s verdict: This might just be one of his favorites we’ve ever had on Thirsty Thursday. High praise!
It’s always interesting when the drink divides the table. That’s part of the fun of this show—different palates, different preferences, but the same good time trying something new. And even though “Love Ya Bye” didn’t get unanimous applause, it definitely made for a great conversation (and a few laughs).
Why the Lotus 23 oz Travel Mug Stole the Show
While the drink had its share of debate, the travel mug got a unanimous thumbs-up. Here’s why:
Temperature control: Hot drinks stay hot, cold drinks stay cold—exactly what you want from your go-to mug.
Sleek, simple design: The Lotus doesn’t try too hard, which makes it versatile for any brand or event.
Affordability: It’s budget-friendly without looking (or feeling) like a “cheap” promo item.
Custom branding potential: Lots of imprint space to showcase a logo or design, making it perfect for company giveaways, events, or retail merch.
If you’re in the market for a branded merch piece that people will actually use—and use often—the Lotus is one to put on your list. It’s the kind of promo item that builds brand impressions every time your customer takes a sip. Learn more and order yours here!
Final Thoughts
Thirsty Thursday is always about having fun with our crew, trying something new, and showcasing just how effective branded merch can be when it’s done right. This week’s episode was a reminder that even when the drink isn’t everyone’s favorite, the right piece of merch can still make the experience a win.
If you want to learn more about the Lotus 23 oz Travel Mug, you can check it out here: Lotus 23 oz Travel Mug.
And if you’ve got a drink suggestion for a future episode—or a piece of drinkware you think we should test—drop us a comment. Who knows? Your pick might just make it into an upcoming Thirsty Thursday!
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!
Welcome back to another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing with Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider! This week’s conversation covers everything from celebrity controversy and year-end gift planning to nostalgic sequels and sunflower fields. As always, it’s a mix of marketing strategy, pop culture, and a little bit of fun along the way.
Sydney Sweeney and the American Eagle Ad Debate
We kicked off the show by diving into the controversy surrounding Sydney Sweeney and her recent ad campaign with American Eagle. For those who haven’t seen it, the campaign has sparked online backlash—some claiming it’s off-brand for the clothing company, others calling it tone-deaf.
Jade’s take? She felt the campaign missed the mark. “It feels like her personal brand is all over the place,” she said. From HBO star to country music features to now being the face of a youthful denim brand, the messaging isn’t cohesive. Jade noted that good marketing should align the brand’s identity with the influencer’s vibe—and this one might have been a mismatch.
Kirby had a slightly different view, suggesting that the outrage may be more about today’s internet culture than the campaign itself. “It seems like people are just looking for something to be mad about,” he said. That said, both agreed that when you’re crafting campaigns involving celebrity influencers, brand alignment is key—otherwise, the message gets lost in the noise.
Year-End Gifting…In August?
If you’ve been around the branded merch world long enough, you know this truth: it’s never too early to plan your year-end gifts.
Jade and Kirby discussed how starting now gives you better options, better pricing, and most importantly—less stress. Waiting until November means you’re fighting stock issues, shipping delays, and a rush of last-minute panic. But if you start in August or September, the world of creative gift-giving is wide open.
Whether you’re showing appreciation to clients, rewarding employees, or sending thank-you kits to partners, branded gifts are a chance to make a lasting impression. Done right, they’re not just “stuff”—they’re a relationship-building tool.
Pro tip: Don’t overthink the size of the gift. A thoughtful, quality item delivered with care can go a long way.
Happy Gilmore 2 – The Cameo Marketing Machine
Next up, we hit on the release of Happy Gilmore 2. Jade saw the movie and gave it a solid “meh” for entertainment value, but the marketing strategy behind it was definitely a conversation starter.
Kirby was intrigued by the power of cameos in promoting the film. “It felt like everyone was talking about it—not because of the storyline, but because of who showed up in it,” he said. Celebrities from all corners made appearances, and those cameos created a ripple effect of free publicity across social media.
The lesson? Create buzz through surprise and involvement. Whether it’s in your content, your product, or your events, when unexpected faces or moments appear, people pay attention. It’s word-of-mouth 2.0.
Product of the Week: Olive Wood Cutting Board with Handle
This week’s product spotlight is a showstopper—especially if you’re thinking about higher-end gifts for clients or team members. The Rock & Branch Olive Wood Cutting and Serving Board is beautiful, functional, and classy.
This isn’t your average kitchen item. It’s the kind of piece that gets used, complimented, and remembered. With its natural olive wood grain and serving handle, it bridges the gap between utility and luxury—and offers a unique branding opportunity.
Pair it with a custom recipe card, a local treat, or a thank-you note for an elevated gift experience. This one’s definitely going on the “holiday favorites” list.
Shout Out: The Coshocton Sunflower Festival 🌻
To wrap up the episode, we gave a shout-out to one of the most beautiful events in Coshocton County: the Coshocton Sunflower Festival!
Taking place over two weekends in August, this festival draws people from all over to wander through fields of vibrant blooms, take stunning photos, and enjoy food, music, and family-friendly fun. It’s a shining example of how local events create community pride and tourism impact.
This episode was a fun blend of hot takes, smart planning, and seasonal strategy.
From celebrity-brand alignment and buzz-worthy marketing moments to early gifting advice and sunflower celebrations, Jade and Kirby always bring insights you can use—and a few laughs along the way.
Thanks for tuning in to Better Merch…Better Marketing—Season 2 is off to a strong start. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode. And if you’re ready to start planning your year-end merch strategy, reach out to our team—we’d love to help.
Until next time—keep spreading the 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!
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!
