#ThirstyThursday Issue #155

💼 What it takes to be an entrepreneur and the traits needed to succeed.

📊 Explore the 2024 Gen Z & Millennial Survey on living and working with purpose.

🗣️ Understand effective communication styles at work to enhance collaboration.

🧹 14 surprisingly dirty things you aren’t vacuuming—but should.

Takeaways:

• Across industries, employees are discovering new hires make more than them. If you want to stay, the dilemma is really a psychology obstacle to overcome.
• Research from Harvard Business Review that reveals employees tend to stay longer in their jobs when given a pay raise after a higher-paid colleague joins. This phenomenon, known as the “sucker effect,” can make employees feel undervalued and consider leaving.
• Focus on networking and your own career progression. Don’t be afraid to seek better opportunities outside your company, and don’t accept a counteroffer from your current employer unless it’s a promotion.

See the YouTube video.

When you manage a $1M swag budget like I used to for events, employee, and client gifting, you start to realize something—doing your own research for the perfect gift can be a huge time sink.

I’ve learned to lean heavily on vendors like Swag.com because they work with hundreds of clients, maybe even some of your competitors, and have access to valuable data that I don’t. They know what’s trending, what’s a hit, and what actually gets used—not just thrown in a drawer (or trash!).

Here are 5 trending pieces according to swag experts:

• The North Face Laptop Backpack: A high-end gift that works for anyone—stylish, durable, and functional. Whether you’re gifting new hires or top clients, this one’s a solid choice.
• Apple AirTag: Easy to brand and even easier to love. Keep your team or clients organized by helping them keep track of their essentials.
• JBL Go 4 Speaker: Perfect for outdoor events or working from home, this portable speaker is a fun, functional gift that anyone will appreciate.
• Carhartt Watch Beanie: Great for the colder months and an easy, stylish piece to throw in any employee welcome kit.
• Eddie Bauer Quilted Blanket: Keep cozy during outdoor adventures or winter nights. This soft, insulated blanket makes a thoughtful employee or client gift that feels both personal and high-end.

Let your vendors do the heavy lifting when it comes to gift suggestions—they have the data to know what works. And you? You get to add your personal touch and make sure your brand shines.

Work with Swag.com to get thoughtful, high-quality gifts without the research headache.

Joanna (TA Co-Founder)

Takeaways:

• By shifting towards compassionate language and attitudes about food and body image we can transform workplaces into spaces of self-acceptance and improved productivity.
• Instead of:
  • “She’s so lazy.”
    • Try: “Let’s see how we can support her and help her succeed.”
  • “That’s a stupid idea.”
    • Try: “Let’s explore this idea further and see what potential it has.”
• Instead of saying:
  • “I’m so fat.”
    • Try: “I’m working on nourishing my body.”
  • “I’m a failure.”
    • Try: “I’m learning from this experience.”
  • “I’m not good enough.”
    • Try: “I’m capable and valuable.”

Watch the TedTalk.

Takeaways:

• Shift your focus from tasks to people. Start thinking about how to manage and lead a team, delegate responsibilities, provide feedback, and foster a collaborative environment.
• Develop essential management skills. Identify the specific skills required for a management role, such as delegation, communication, problem-solving, and people management.
• Build visibility and credibility. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and make your presence known in the workplace. Network with colleagues, volunteer for projects, and actively seek opportunities to demonstrate your leadership abilities. This will help you build your reputation and increase your chances of being considered for a management position.

Watch the YouTube video.

Want to improve productivity, happiness, and overall team morale? It’s amazing what a well-stocked snack bar can do.

That’s where Simpalo Snacks comes in. They deliver delicious, healthy snacks that your team will actually want to eat (no more boring vending machine runs).

Whether you’re into well-known favorites or want to discover something new, Simpalo has you covered. With fast delivery, customizable snack boxes, and the option to brand your packages, it’s a no-brainer for businesses that value both health and convenience.

No more store trips, no more bland snack shelves—just happy employees who are energized to do their best work.

✨ Customize your snack box today and see why so many companies love Simpalo!

Takeaways:

• Give yourself permissions to step away. No matter how much work you get done today, there will still be work tomorrow so gain perspective on this idea and don’t derive your worth from the number of tasks accomplished today.
• Be mindful of your conversations. If you’re experiencing burnout, interacting with people who are cynical or pessimistic does nothing good for you. Ask yourself “How do I want to show today?” to reframe your mindset.
• Setting boundaries is simply communicating “here’s what you can expect from me” and you can use it at work, home and socially without guilt.

Watch the TikTok.

👠 Step into comfort with these work conference approved slip-on shoes that blend style and ease for all-day wear.

🦈 This VPN lets you surf like you’re off the grid, no matter where you are.

🖤 Elevate your wardrobe with these classic black tights that offer versatility and comfort.

💡 Transform your mindset with Winning the War in Your Mind, an insightful book that guides you in overcoming negative thoughts to achieve lasting success.

🚨 Job Ops: Visit our job board here.