Discover the secrets to happier employees in this week's edition of the Happy Office Hour powered by Brand Sauce. Chock-full of industry insights, hot new products for your company store, and valuable info to make your office happier and your company culture the envy of your industry.

A Dash of Industry Insights 📰

Industry Headlines, Insights, Data & Upcoming Events

❗️ Promotional Products Association International Expo 2025 Final Reminder: The Brand Sauce team will be attending PPAI on Monday, January 13th. If you or your team are looking for any specific products to add to your company store, give us a shout! Also, be sure to follow us on Instagram (@Brand.Sauce) for live real-time updates all week.

🖥️ Uncovering HR’s role in the AI revolution: On January 15th, BetterUp is hosting a virtual event at 12PM EST to uncover how AI and human-centered leadership can work together to unlock potential and drive innovation. Register here.

🔮 2025 Apparel Trends To Watch: From cozy heavyweight streetwear to sustainable hybrid jackets, the promo industry is evolving. Think softer color palettes, innovative printing tech, and a strong push toward Made-in-USA products. See how these trends are reshaping branded merchandise. Read the full article here.

Employee Appreciation Day

Transform Your Employee Appreciation Day: 10 Ideas That Actually Work

🌱 Plant Seeds of Recognition

Don't wait for big milestones. Create micro-moments of appreciation throughout the year. Small, consistent recognition builds stronger cultures than one-off celebrations.

🎁 Give the Gift of Choice

Let's face it - generic gifts often miss the mark. Our data shows employees value choice above all. Empower your team with options they'll actually love and use.

🎯 Align with Personal Growth

Turn appreciation into opportunity. Offer learning experiences, professional development resources, or skill-building workshops that show you're invested in their future.

🎨 Personalization is Key 

One size never fits all! Create diverse recognition programs that celebrate individual preferences and personalities. Your team is unique - their appreciation should be too.

🎮 Make it Memorable 

Turn appreciation into an experience! From outdoor adventures to team competitions, create moments that matter: park picnics, scavenger hunts, team sports events, concert outings & more interactive experiences.

🎬 Capture the Moments

Document your celebration! Create a highlight reel or photo wall of your team enjoying the day. It extends the impact and gives everyone lasting memories to share.

🤝 Strengthen Human Connections 

In our digital world, authentic connections matter more than ever. Create spaces for real conversations and meaningful interactions.

🏠 Remote & Hybrid

Remember Your Remote Team Distance shouldn't limit appreciation! Ensure virtual team members feel just as valued with thoughtful, inclusive recognition.

✍️ Personal Notes Matter 

Have leadership write personal notes. In a world of digital communication, handwritten appreciation stands out.

💫 Make it Shareable

Give your team something worth talking about. When employees proudly share their appreciation experience on social media, it boosts both team pride and your employer brand.

Stirring Words of Wisdom

Quote of the Week

True growth happens at the edge of discomfort. As leaders, our job isn't just to push our teams toward challenges, but to create an environment where taking risks feels safe. When people know they're supported, they're more likely to saddle up for those uncomfortable rides that lead to breakthrough moments.

Client Spotlight

Client Spotlight: How Forgen is Building a Culture-First Legacy

Meet Forgen: Building a Better Tomorrow

Founded in 2008, Forgen has evolved into one of North America's leading environmental champions. After rebranding in 2020 to emphasize their commitment to future generations, they've become a powerhouse in environmental remediation and construction services across the US and Canada. Their mission? Protecting communities and restoring natural environments for generations to come.

Holiday Magic: A Brand Sauce Success Story 🎁

This holiday season, we partnered with Forgen to create something special. We designed a custom holiday pop-up store featuring 20 carefully curated items. Using our data-driven approach, we selected premium products that blend seasonal trends with proven favorites, creating a dedicated shopping experience separate from their main store.

🤝 Partner with Forgen

Interested in doing business with Forgen? I'm happy to make an introduction - reach out at [email protected].

🚀 Join the Forgen Team

Ready to work for a company that puts people and the planet first? Forgen is expanding with 43 exciting positions across North America. Explore opportunities here.

Weekend Update

Around The Water Cooler With Ross

As you reflect on 2024 and what you want to achieve in 2025, are you writing down your goals? I've learned that when I set goals, they don't always happen for me. Instead, I do better when I create new habits.

A new habit I'm working on is attending Pilates at Bodyrok once a week. Attending once a week feels doable and will help me reach my goal of getting stronger this year. Another habit I'm building is grilling dinner for the family on Friday nights. By going to the grocery store on Fridays before heading home, I can prepare a nice meal for the family, which supports my goal of making Madison's life around the house easier.

Key Differences Between Goals and Habits:

• Goals are destinations; habits are the routines that help you get there.

• Goals are temporary; habits are lasting.

• Goals focus on outcomes; habits focus on actions.

What habits are you working on changing this year? Let's hold each other accountable!

-Ross

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