#ThirstyThursday Issue #154

The Assist Newsletter
October 23, 2024
An illustration of a cartoon mummy playing drums with the caption, “What kind of music do mummies listen to?” on a bright pink background with musical notes floating around.

Click the image for the punchline 👆.

Today’s checklist: 

  • 5 problem-solving methods
  • Use this tip to develop junior talent
  • Learn to get your renter’s deposit back
  • Work-appropriate Halloween costumes

🗓️ Webinar Today: Don’t miss Dr. Christina Moran, a People Ops leader, in today’s must-attend webinar (Thurs 10/24 at 12 PM PT / 3 PM ET). Discover how to create personalized onboarding experiences that scale with ease. Register here for free.

QUICK LINKS

🚨 What to do if you’re put on a PIP (Performance Improvement Plan).

📧 Master your inbox with these email management tips.

🎉 Learn how employee shoutouts can build a culture of recognition.

📝 Shape your perfect planner—we need your insights to create something you’ll love!

GOAL PLANNING

A tweet by Alex Brogan that says, “Problem solving isn’t taught. But it’s something we should probably learn. Here are 5 of the best problem solving methods you can start using today,” with engagement stats showing 2.5k likes, 760 retweets, and 47 replies.

5 Problem-Solving Methods

 

Takeaways:

  • 5 Whys Method: Break down a problem by asking “Why?” five times to uncover the root cause.
  • Minto Pyramid Principle: Structure your ideas logically, starting with the solution, then supporting arguments, and details.
  • Ishikawa Diagram: Also known as the fishbone diagram, it helps identify various causes of a problem, visually mapping them out.
  • Inversion: Solve a problem by considering the opposite scenario—what steps would make the problem worse, and then avoid them.
  • Issue Trees: Break down complex problems into smaller, manageable issues in a tree-like structure to identify key drivers.

See the LinkedIn post.

TEAM APPRECIATION

Try GroupTogether's Anycard

Say Thanks to your Team with an AnyCard 💗

 

Instead of another company-branded mug ☕️ or a team building activity they’d rather skip 🏃🏽‍♀️, show your appreciation for your team with a thoughtful Group Card and a GroupTogether AnyCard.

It’s the perfect blend of meaningful AND useful:

  • Meaningful: Let team members (remote or in-office) leave a kind message on the card and upload a picture or GIF.
  • Useful: Attach an AnyCard for any amount and let the recipient choose from over 150 gift cards.

GroupTogether makes it easy to create a Group Card + AnyCard for any occasion including:

Try GroupTogether today!

P.S. It takes <5 min to set up 🙌.

LEADERSHIP

A woman sitting in a car, wearing sunglasses and speaking directly to the camera. The text overlay reads, “So if you're managing a junior level team.”

Develop Junior Talent With This Tip

 

Takeaways:

  • Empowerment is underrated, but it extends tremendous value when developing teams, especially junior staff members.
  • When staff members feel like they have authority to do their own work and are respected they are more likely to think critically, but come with solutions when they make mistakes.
  • The benefits are increased confidence, output and autonomy for you to be able to focus on your own tasks.

See the TikTok.

HOME

A woman in front of a bookshelf, with her hand on her chest, speaking passionately in a video. The background is filled with books, plants, and home decor.

Dealing With Landlords & Getting Your Deposit Back

 

Takeaways:

  • Conduct a thorough pre-move-in inspection, taking photos and notes to document any existing damage. Keep records of all communication with the landlord, and document any damages or repairs during the move-out process to protect your security deposit.
  • Ensure the property is clean and undamaged when moving out. Perform minor repairs, clean appliances, and restore the space to its original condition.
  • Provide proper notice in writing, return the keys, and arrange a move-out inspection. Follow up if the deposit isn’t returned within 30 days, and be prepared to take legal action if necessary with documentation of the property’s condition.

See the YouTube video.

MARKETING

An image of three smartphones displaying social media icons: a multicolored magnifying glass, a blue thumbs-up, and a person icon. Around the phones are floating heart-shaped notification bubbles, symbolizing engagement and likes.

Top 3 Paid Acquisition Channels to Boost Your Growth

 

When it comes to scaling your growth, not all advertising platforms are created equal. Here are three key channels where your ad spend can have the most impact:

1. Google Ads

As the king of search intent, Google Ads allows you to target users who are actively searching for your product or service. This platform offers a range of ad formats and robust targeting capabilities, making it ideal for lead generation and direct sales.

Best for: Capturing demand and converting users who are further down the purchase funnel.

2. Meta Ads (Facebook & Instagram)

Meta Ads remain strong contenders for audience engagement and brand storytelling. Instagram’s Stories and Reels ads are great for visual impact, while Facebook excels at retargeting website visitors and building lookalike audiences.

Best for: Brand awareness and driving engagement with a highly visual and interactive audience.

3. The Rising Star: TikTok Ads

TikTok’s massive reach and influence are becoming undeniable, with 58% of users discovering new brands and products on the platform. The key is to tap into the playful, authentic content that TikTok users love. And right now, with TikTok’s limited-time offer—spend $100 and get $100 (terms apply)—it’s a golden opportunity to test the waters.

Best for: Reaching diverse audiences, driving impulse buys, and creating memorable, viral campaigns. TikTok’s engaging format is perfect for driving brand discovery. Claim the offer here.

HALLOWEEN

A woman dressed as the Queen of Hearts, wearing a crown and a heart-themed costume with playing cards around her collar, standing in front of lockers.

Work-Appropriate Costumes

 

Takeaways:

  • It’s always a little challenging to select a costume, especially for the office so we’ve put together 15 outfits to inspire you.

Check out the costumes on TikTok.

STAFF PICKS

Stuff We’re Loving This Week

 

👗 Add versatility to your wardrobe with this Deep V bodysuit (available in a variety of cute colors).

🎉 Create a free account and explore Confetti’s virtual team-building events (we’re obsessed with the Coworker Clash)!

📚 Cameron, our newsletter ops manager, can’t say enough great things about Daisy Darker.

👚 Grab this Lululemon scuba half zip dupe as a stylish and affordable alternative.

JUST FOR FUN

A still from a video showing a man writing "Forecasts" on a whiteboard while a group of colleagues sits at a table, laptops open, in a meeting room. The caption reads, "Alright folks.”

🚨 Job Ops: Visit our job board here.

P.S. Want more inspiration and positivity to kick off your week? Sign up for our Motivational Monday texts (U.S. only).

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