From Hangovers to Hemp: Navigating the Shifting Beverage Landscape

Eric Rosen, our cannabis talent strategy expert shares his thoughts on the changes occurring in the beverage and cannabis market, having helped multiple companies rebuild their teams to capitalize on these new opportunities. Change is the only constant—and nowhere is this more evident than in the evolving world of adult beverages. In recent years, traditional alcohol consumption has taken a notable downturn, while cannabis and hemp-derived THC products have surged into the mainstream. This shift isn’t just a fleeting trend; it signals a broader movement toward healthier, more mindful consumption choices. A Steady Decline in Alcohol Consumption Over the past several […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 2, 2025
  • ForceBrands

What Is the Consumer Economy?

As businesses strive to meet evolving market demands, understanding the consumer economy becomes crucial for strategic planning, hiring, and growth.

  • ForceBrands
  • July 8, 2024
  • Rebecca Fryer
hand on laptop with pen

How to Write a Standout Job Posting On the ForceBrands Job Board

Searching for a new job often begins online. In fact, the majority of job searches — 80 percent of them —were conducted online in 2022, according to Zippia. For employers, this means that special attention must be paid to job postings as they’re often the first touchpoints candidates experience during the online hiring process. Creating a compelling job listing that attracts qualified candidates and encourages them to apply takes more than writing a thoughtfully crafted job description. We asked ForceBrands’ Client Success Manager Justin Sligh for tips on how to maximize the job board experience. What should employers be most […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 13, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer

ForceBrands Releases 2024 Salary Reports for Consumer Brands

ForceBrands has released its 2024 Salary Reports for the following industries: beer, wine, and spirits; beauty and wellness; cannabis; and food and non-alc beverage. The reports offer salary data across marketing, operations, sales, finance, and human resources.  This salary report includes salary, benefits, and bonus ranges for our most common placements within consumer brands; insights from our industry practice leaders; in-demand titles or areas of growth in 2024; and roles that saw the highest growth in the last three years. Key findings, trends, and insights from the report include: • “I am picking up some notable trends from the frontlines […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 7, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
creator desk

A Conversation with M88’s Talent Powerhouse Stephanie Piza

Stephanie Piza is nothing short of a powerhouse when it comes to talent and the creator space. The talent and management executive — who now works as Head of Emerging and Interactive Media for representation firm M88 — launched UNCMMN, a female-founded management firm focused on diverse talent and a holistic approach to management.  About four years after launching her firm, Piza decided to merge with M88, a representation firm that also focuses on amplifying diverse voices and storytelling. Naturally, we were eager to sit down with the talent expert and chat about the industry and where it’s headed. Here’s […]

SKU

Watch SKU’s Fall 2023 Showcase Pitch Event

SKU, the nation’s leading consumer product accelerator, will host its Showcase Pitch event on November 14 from 4:30-8 p.m. CT in Austin, Texas for the eight brands participating in SKU’s Pet Care and Women & BIPOC Tracks. RSVP here to watch the event. The two cohorts feature brands that make some of the most innovative products we’ve seen — from an at-home pet diagnostic test to treats that relieve the symptoms of menstruation and menopause. “We are excited for the CPG community to see these exciting brands, who all bring something unique to their categories, whether it be delicious seedy crackers […]

  • Food
  • October 30, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
tequila

The Tale of Talent and Tequila: Matthew McConaughey and Wife Camila Alves Launch Tequila Brand

Are you even a celebrity if you haven’t launched your own tequila brand? Just kidding — kind of. Matthew McConaughey and his wife, model and designer Camila Alves, are joining the long list of celebrities who have launched their own tequila brand. The parents of three kids call their new tequila, Pantalones: “the best thing we’ve made with our pants on.” When it comes to the creator space, we know the world of tequila all too well. The Tequila Club is one that every celebrity seems to be interested in joining, and it’s no surprise. Even as the non-alcoholic beverage […]

man with laptop

The Value of Hiring a Great CHRO

In any organization, there are many individuals with seats at the proverbial leadership table. After all, the complexities of managing a business compel CEOs to assemble a team of diverse perspectives and expertise to help guide the organization’s strategic direction.  One of the most critical voices on this team is the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). A great CHRO doesn’t merely lead the HR function and its many programs for hiring, developing, and engaging employees; the CHRO is also an invaluable partner to the CEO and executive leadership team. Why the CHRO is One of the Most Important Hires For […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 23, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
scrabble leadership words

6 Hidden Talents of Purpose-Driven Leaders

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, leadership is not only about managing operations and making profits. Sure, that helps, but it’s not everything. It’s about leading with a purpose that goes beyond the bottom line. Purpose-driven leaders are powerful forces. They have the ability to influence teams and motivate companies to succeed beyond revenue and other business-related goals. So, how do you become an impactful leader? And what are the tell-tale signs — or, hidden talents — of these figureheads? Read on as we explore the DNA of purpose-driven leaders and how you can tap into your own potential to […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 23, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
beauty influencer

5 Industries That Are Booming in the Creator World

The creator economy — a term that refers to a massive group of personal brands and businesses built by influencers and content creators — is growing substantially and continuing to increase in popularity. The space, which is projected to be worth $480 billion just five years from now, is booming with opportunity. We took a look at five industries that are particularly interesting to watch in the creator economy. Beauty The beauty industry is booming — and worth more than $530 billion — so it’s no surprise that creators are jumping at the opportunity to be part of it. From […]

woman walking in new york

Finding and Hiring Purpose-Driven Talent: A Guide for Employers

Today’s job market is competitive which invariably means that finding and hiring the right talent is a challenge. Adding to the challenge is that it’s still a candidate-driven market. Even amid economic uncertainty, candidates are still very much in the driver’s seat when it comes to calling the shots as it relates to what they want from their careers — a theme that has continued throughout the pandemic. Top talent is in high demand, especially as companies prioritize purpose-driven talent acquisition as part of their long-term retention strategy. And the proof is in the numbers: employees who feel connected to their […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 10, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
man looking out window

Does Your Company Need a Head of AI?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has made its mark in every facet of life. Anyone anywhere can use ChatGPT or a similar tool to write video scripts, proofread text, and a lot more. In the world of work, companies use AI to improve customer service and perform a host of other internal business functions. Given the spread of AI today, it’s no wonder so many companies are hiring data-savvy leaders to help them leverage this new technology.  Hiring a Head of AI seems like the logical next step for companies seeking to invest in the technologies of the future. And early signs […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 9, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
Slate Milk cans

How Slate Milk Built a National Sales Team Using ForceBrands’ Job Board

Launched in the midst of the Covid pandemic, Slate Milk is the brainchild of college friends Manny Lubin and Josh Belinsky who set out on a mission to create healthy chocolate milk they could drink every day. The brand has since evolved into a company that sells strength through high protein milkshakes and lattes. The Boston-based startup recognized early on that having salespeople in the field would be fundamental to their long-term growth strategy. The proof was already in the numbers: on average in that first year of launch, they saw a large increase in sales by having team members on the ground selling the product. […]

  • Beverage
  • October 6, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer

SKU Is Accepting Applications for Its Spring 2024 Track

SKU, the nation’s first accelerator for consumer packaged goods (CPG), is accepting applications for its Spring 2024 track here. Ideal candidates are market-validated companies with compelling founders and innovative products in hot categories, including food and beverage, pet care, beauty, and apparel. The application deadline is November 19. The cohort will kick off on March 5 and will culminate on May 21 with the showcase pitch event. Although it is Austin, Texas-based, the track is a hybrid program and brands and mentors do not need to be based in Austin. “We cannot state enough how amazing the SKU track has […]

chatgpt

We Asked ChatGPT About Top Creator Brands; Here’s What It Said

While the initial hype around ChatGPT may have subsided, it’s still very much a thing. As the creator economy continues to grow, we’re eager to ask the popular AI chatbot more questions about the space. We asked, “What are the top creator brands?” and ChatGPT seemed to avoid pointing to specific companies. Instead, it referenced platforms that creators use to expand their reach. Here’s how it responded: ChatGPT’s introduction to its answer was, “As of my last training cut-off in September 2021, several creator-centric brands and platforms have gained significant recognition. The term ‘creator brands’ can be a bit ambiguous, but […]

man walking on street

Fall Is Hiring Season; Here’s What the ForceBrands Team Has to Say About Navigating It

Is fall really the best time to look for a new job? Our recruiting team thinks so. More than just a trendy title, there’s a lot of truth to the ‘September Surge’ when hiring activity picks up through the fall season. What’s the rationale behind the increased volume of job postings? Companies typically spend the latter half of the year — especially September through November — actively assessing their annual budgets and planning ahead for next year’s growth strategy. We checked in with the ForceBrands team to get more intel on this hiring surge to see how job seekers should […]

  • Career Advice
  • September 26, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer

New York Is the Latest State to Implement a Pay Transparency Law; Here’s What It Means for Job Seekers

New York is the latest state to implement a pay transparency law that will allow job seekers to see salary ranges for open roles. New York State’s Pay Transparency Law went into effect on September 17 and mandates that employers include minimum-maximum salary ranges that are believed to be in line with fair market compensation. This includes promotions and transfer opportunities. In addition to salary disclosure, employers must also include a job description. The purpose of pay transparency laws The law is designed to empower job seekers with important information up front and to address systemic pay inequity and discriminatory […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 18, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
man looking at laptop

Just How Confident Are Candidates Job Searching in Today’s Economy?

Sure, the job market may have cooled over the summer months, but it still remains strong and resilient. U.S. employers continue to add jobs — roughly 187,000 jobs were added in July. While that number falls short of expectations, it’s still solid. The unemployment rate dipped to 3.5 percent, close to a half-century low, the Labor Department Reports. So what do candidates think about navigating the job search in this economy? In ForceBrands’ Consumer Talent Compensation and Job Market Confidence Trend Report, we uncover compensation and job market confidence trends and their impact on employee attraction, retention, and workplace attitudes. We […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 24, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
Cannabis Matters Jason Nelson BeLeaf Medical

Cannabis Matters with Jason Nelson of BeLeaf Medical

One of the more recent states to legalize the recreational use of cannabis in 2022, Missouri is often considered a leader in the Midwest when it comes to the medicinal use of the plant. Medical use was legalized in 2018. At the forefront of the medical use market, BeLeaf Medical is a leader in the state of Missouri. Vertically integrated with years of experience in several states, BeLeaf provides consistent quality natural plant-based therapies through its handful of brands like SWADE, SINSE, and PHYTOS. We caught up with BeLeaf Medical’s Chief Executive Officer Jason Nelson to learn more about the company, […]

  • Cannabis
  • August 15, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer

Report: Compensation Is High But It Might Not Be High Enough to Keep Talent From Job Hopping

Did you receive a raise within the last year? Are you satisfied with your current compensation? In ForceBrands’ Consumer Talent Compensation and Job Market Confidence Trend Report, we uncover compensation and job market confidence trends and their impact on employee attraction, retention, and workplace attitudes. We surveyed more than 1,000 workers across various industries and demographics in the U.S. Our findings reveal that while both compensation and confidence in the job market are high, despite economic uncertainty, talent is still very much on the move. Read on for some highlights from our report as it relates to salaries and overall compensation satisfaction. […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 14, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
SKU cohort

SKU Launches Inaugural Pet Care Track and a Cohort for Women and BIPOC Founders

SKU, the trailblazing consumer product accelerator, has launched its first pet care track and a cohort centered on women and BIPOC-founded brands. The four brands selected for each cohort showcase creativity, passion, and true innovation — from functional foods to remedies to ease painful periods to hip-hop-inspired pet treats.  The pet care cohort includes D.R.E.A.M. Pet Food, 5 Element Food Therapy, Innovative Pet Lab, and Pupsentials. The women and BIPOC tracks include Blossom Essentials, Neeshi, Phreshly, and The Humble Seed. The 12-week cohort kicks off on August 24, 2023. The founders and mentors will celebrate the culmination of the tracks […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 14, 2023
  • ForceBrands
woman typing on laptop

How to Write Compelling Job Descriptions That Attract Top Talent

Job descriptions are often an overlooked piece of the talent acquisition strategy puzzle. But especially in today’s fiercely competitive job market, they can make all the difference in attracting qualified candidates in that first initial hiring stage. Because job descriptions serve as the first point of contact between your company and potential candidates, it’s important to provide them with a glimpse of your organization’s culture, values, and long-term career growth opportunities. Best practices for writing job descriptions An effectively written job description can help attract highly qualified candidates who are not only skilled but also aligned with your company’s vision […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 8, 2023
  • ForceBrands
woman holding book

The Evolving Chief Diversity Officer Role

In a climate of social justice concerns and an increasingly polarized society, the Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) role has remained a critical lever for creating a more inclusive and united workplace. But as organizations strive to achieve diversity goals amid many obstacles, this impactful member of the C-suite will need to continue evolving and working in partnership with other leaders to make measurable progress. The Current Landscape for Chief Diversity Officers Organizations have been hiring diversity and inclusion leaders for decades, but in recent years, the CDO role has joined the C-suite in spectacular fashion. According to LinkedIn, Chief Diversity […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 8, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
ForceBrands Compensation Report

ForceBrands Releases Consumer Talent Compensation and Job Market Confidence Trend Report

How is consumer talent currently assessing their career, workplace, and confidence in the job market? In ForceBrands’ Consumer Talent Compensation and Job Market Confidence Trend Report, we uncover compensation and job market confidence trends and their impact on employee attraction, retention, and workplace attitudes. We surveyed more than 1,000 workers across various industries and demographics in the U.S. to bring you our key findings on compensation trends, job market confidence, and engagement, loyalty, and attrition levers.  Here are some key findings from our report: • Compensation increased (8 in 10 respondents received a raise within the last year)• Compensation satisfaction […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 1, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
two men having a beer

Raising a Glass to Inclusivity: 4 Wine, Beer, and Spirits Companies That Celebrate Disability Pride

Disability Pride Month, observed annually in July, is a time to honor and celebrate the achievements, talents, and contributions of individuals with disabilities. It’s also an opportunity to promote inclusivity and advocate for equal rights and opportunities. In recent years, several forward-thinking wine, beer, and spirits brands have emerged, actively working to embrace diversity, break down barriers, and celebrate disability pride. These innovative companies are redefining the landscape of the beverage industry while championing inclusivity. Explore some innovative beverage brands that are making a positive impact. Beyond Distilling Company Charleston, S.C.-based Beyond Distilling Company specializes in craft spirits such as […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 16, 2023
  • ForceBrands
job board

The Data Advantage: How an Internal Job Board Provides Valuable Insights for HR

There’s no doubt that hiring from within can be a valuable way to source qualified talent for new roles and replacements. After all, existing employees already understand your organizational culture, structure, and processes. Similarly, HR teams are familiar with employee skills and performance, and where they may fit in other areas of the organization.  Internal job boards make it easier to match employees with internal job opportunities. They provide the data HR and internal recruiting teams need to understand where (and when) employees can move internally, and they can work alongside other candidate sourcing methods. How an internal job board […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 11, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
man at desk

Mastering the Art of Job Postings: 5 Tips for Attracting High-Quality Candidates Online

In an increasingly competitive job market, the quality of your online job postings matters. When done right, job postings don’t just yield a higher volume of applications; they also draw more interest from the types of candidates you want to attract.  While your organization likely attracts candidates via referrals, networking, social media, and other sources, online job posting remains critical to a successful talent acquisition program. According to the 2022 Job Seeker Nation Report, 59 percent of surveyed job seekers named online job boards their top method of researching available jobs. To attract high-quality candidates that are excellent matches with […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 10, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
chatgpt

How to Unleash the True Potential of Your AI Marketing Strategy

Today’s marketers must not only be digitally savvy, but they need to be curious and proactive about emerging technology trends in order to remain relevant and ahead of the competition. It’s no secret that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful marketing tool to enhance customer engagement, drive personalization, and optimize campaigns. And it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. According to a report by Gartner, the global AI market is expected to reach $266.92 billion by 2027. To design a successful AI marketing strategy, leaders must integrate cutting-edge technology with creative thinking and data-driven insights. Read on as we […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 10, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
Demeine Estates leadership team

Get to Know Demeine Estates with President Philana Bouvier

Demeine Estates is a family-owned producer, importer, and marketer of the world’s finest wines based in the heart of Napa Valley, Calif. A leader in luxury wines in the U.S., Demeine Estates sets the standard in exceptional marketing, fine wine sales, and distribution services. Founded by The Lawrence family and Carlton McCoy Jr., the company is led by President Philana Bouvier. We caught up with her to learn more about Demeine Estates’ curated portfolio, growth opportunities within the company, team building, and more. On being a culture of builders We’re very fast-paced, high energy. We actually look beyond the resume when it […]

  • Beverage
  • June 29, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
pregnant woman at office

Everything You Need to Know About the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

In a significant stride toward workplace equality and protection of pregnant employees’ rights, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) has emerged as a pivotal legislation aimed at preventing pregnancy discrimination and ensuring reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, 80 percent of pregnant women, and nearly a quarter of mothers have considered leaving their jobs while pregnant due to lack of workplace accommodations or fear of discrimination, NBC News reports. The PWFA has far-reaching implications for both employers and employees. Here’s what the PWFA entails and the impact it has on the workplace. Understanding the Pregnant Workers […]

  • ForceBrands
  • June 28, 2023
  • ForceBrands
two men walking

How Leaders Can Unleash AI’s Potential As a Catalyst for Growth

To be sure, AI isn’t just about challenges, it’s also about opportunities. In communicating AI as a catalyst for growth, leaders can highlight the transformative potential of AI in their operations and strategy. For example, demonstrating how AI can automate repetitive and mundane tasks can free up employees’ time for higher-value, strategic work, ultimately boosting efficiency and productivity — a win-win.  For example, in customer-facing teams, the opportunity to use AI for personalized experiences can be emphasized, underlining how this can strengthen customer relationships and brand reputation (this can all be done in minutes, as opposed to hours). Moreover, the […]

person playing chess

How Leaders Can Navigate AI’s Ethical Minefield

AI is powerful, but it’s not infallible. Issues around bias, privacy, and decision transparency are legitimate concerns. This will also present a challenge for leadership to overcome with employees. They will want to ensure that AI is not running untethered in the background and/or will not unintentionally produce results that might reflect poorly on them. Indeed, despite AI’s immense capabilities, most will acknowledge that its present rate of development has outpaced its cautionary oversight.  Enter AI ethics. AI ethics 101 What are AI ethics and why are businesses of all sizes (especially leadership) starting to take notice of them? AI […]

woman in AI

Embracing AI in the Workplace: A Leadership Guide to Addressing and Normalizing AI

Should you have been blissfully sequestered on a lunar terrain or surviving on a remote, WiFi-less island, here’s a pertinent update: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is dramatically reshaping the world as we know it, and it’s happening right before our eyes. Its omnipresent influence impacts businesses, industries, and the global job market at large. While the benefits of AI are significant, it’s crucial to openly address the associated risks and concerns, particularly from an employment or “internal brand” perspective. This article will provide a guide to leaders and HR professionals on how to effectively communicate about AI to their teams, discussing […]

tbh

How TBH Builds a Creator Brand While Its Founder Is in College

Building a creator brand takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Doing it while your founder is still in college, meanwhile, presents its own set of challenges, but the team at Noah Schnapp’s tbh is figuring it out and excelling at it. We chatted with the hazelnut spread company’s CEO Elena Guberman to discuss the unique learning experience and steps she’s taken to ensure the company succeeds.  Alexis Benveniste: Would you call tbh a creator brand?Elena Guberman: Our origin story is a little unique. Noah Schnapp is involved with the company, and the origin of tbh is fundamentally his idea. […]

ForceBrands CFO report on desk

Highlights From Our ‘Beyond the Balance Sheet’ CFO Webinar

ForceBrands’ Impactful Search® hosted a live webinar in May 2023 with industry leaders in a timely conversation about trends impacting the modern CFO and finance team. KEY TAKEAWAYS: • Explore more about the CFO evolution and what skills and competencies are required of today’s financial leaders. Download our Force Multiplier Report on the rise of CFO and executive finance roles.• Today’s CFOs should consider every form of funding out there. There are always other better alternatives for businesses in the short-term.• When it comes to financial stability and social impact, it shouldn’t be a trade-off. “If people come into it thinking it’s […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 25, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
onboarding

Onboarding vs. Integrating: What’s the Difference?

Bringing a new leader into your organization, whether a member of the C-suite or a divisional manager, requires careful steps to help them feel equipped and empowered to perform. While your onboarding process can get you part of the way there, you’ll need a plan for integrating new hires into your culture so they can have maximum impact in fulfilling your company vision.  The difference between onboarding and integration On the surface, it may seem that onboarding and integration are more alike than different. After all, both are critical to the success of any new hire. Onboarding gives new hires […]

graduation advice

4 Best Pieces of Advice to Recent Graduates From Executive Recruiters

Class of 2023 graduates have a lot to look forward to — the pandemic is officially in the rearview and companies are hiring. The job market is growing strongly despite high interest rates. And as if a burgeoning job market wasn’t enticing enough, compensation is also at a high. When it comes to compensation, 53 percent of new graduates entering the workforce reported that starting salaries surpassed their expectations. Some fields are proving to be more lucrative than others. In technology, finance, and consulting, it’s not uncommon to see starting salaries in the six figures. We tapped into some of […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 10, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
two men at a table

How Venture Capital Funds Can Support the Growth of Their Portfolio Companies

Venture capital funds play a vital role in supporting the growth of their portfolio companies. Beyond providing funding, they offer invaluable resources and strategic guidance to help companies achieve growth and scale. Some of the ways that venture capital funds can support the growth of their portfolio companies include the use of online job boards to help companies recruit top talent and stay connected with their investors and other stakeholders. Read on as we explore some other ways emerging companies can benefit from being members of a portfolio. Provide strategic guidance One of the primary ways that venture capital funds […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 8, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
man on laptop

Finance in the Age of Digital Transformation

As the pace of change has accelerated for businesses everywhere, so has the need to double down on digital transformation efforts, and Chief Financial Officers are right in the middle of it all. With the rise of automation, artificial intelligence, and big data, CFOs and their finance teams are taking the lead in leveraging new technologies to improve business processes and generate actionable insights.  In this third of a four-part series covering the CFO role, discover how the finance function is using new technologies to drive business strategy and decision-making. The role of CFOs in leading corporate digital transformation The […]

person typing on calculator

How Today’s CFOs Approach Risk Management

There’s no doubt that organizations face many risks, from the known to the unknown and unpredictable. Given that those risks can disrupt company operations and, therefore, productivity and cash flow, Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) must remain alert and ready to take swift action. Of course, the CFO is not singly responsible for managing the broad assortment of imminent and long-range risks. They must work with other members of the C-suite and rely on the right tools to help them make intelligent, data-driven decisions. In this second of a four-part series covering the CFO role, learn more about the key risks […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 27, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
ForceBrands CreatorForce

ForceBrands Introduces CreatorForce Hiring Practice for the Creator Economy

ForceBrands is proud to introduce CreatorForce, its specialized hiring practice for creator and celebrity brands.  CreatorForce’s hiring solutions include Impactful Search® for executive search with access to elite C-suite leadership, executives, advisors, and board members; Direct Hire for consumer-focused recruitment for VP, director, and senior management positions; and a job board for hiring entry-level talent, brand ambassadors, field marketing experts, and social coordinators. CreatorForce connects top creators, creator agencies, celebrities, tech entrepreneurs, and venture groups investing in the creator space to the strategic talent that accelerates business growth. “The creator economy is booming with creators who are driving real industry […]

  • CreatorForce
  • April 25, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
men looking at laptop

How the Modern CFO Is a Strategic Business Partner to the C-Suite

Whether organizations are in the midst of navigating economic hardship or releasing quarterly financial results, the actions and words of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) are often front and center. But, as organizations tackle other enterprise challenges and initiatives, the CFO remains a pivotal figure not only in partnership with the CEO but also in collaboration with other leaders in the C-suite. In this first of a four-part series covering the CFO role, discover the top ways today’s CFOs meet heightened expectations to act as strategic business partners to the CEO and C-suite. The modern CFO Where the CFO was […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 18, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
Women at the office

The Rise of Alternative Education: How Companies Are Embracing Job Candidates Without Four-Year Degrees

Although conventional candidate qualifications within the job market have always been governed by having earned a college degree, in recent years there has been a shift in mindset. Job candidates are increasingly skipping the traditional four-year degree in favor of alternative paths, such as vocational training and coding boot camps. This trend is driven in part by rising student debt and changing attitudes toward higher education. As a result, many companies are reevaluating their hiring practices and placing more emphasis on continued skill development and experience rather than simply requiring a degree. Reasons for job candidates skipping four-year degrees There […]

su casa mezcal

Industry Veteran Joey Angelo Launches SU CASA MEZCAL

Mezcal is having a moment. Now the fastest growing liquor category in the United States, mezcal’s global market is expected to reach $2.1 billion by 2031 with North America driving this growth. Despite this surge in popularity, a true market leader has yet to emerge — most consumers would be hard-pressed to name a single mezcal brand.  Introducing SU CASA MEZCAL from industry veteran Joey Angelo. With its striking custom blue bottle and unique look, a memorable and easy-to-pronounce name, and an attractive price point, SU CASA MEZCAL is uniquely poised to lead a competitive market. “It’s rare for a […]

  • Beverage
  • March 30, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at laptop

How Naturally Network Keeps Its Nationwide Community Connected

Naturally Network, a national organization for the natural and organic consumer product industry, is all about community building. Its mission is to harness, accelerate and elevate the power and impact of conscious business practices in the natural and organic products ecosystem through community-based programming, networking, influence, and collaboration. What began as a support system in Boulder, Colo., now spans over 5,000 members and more than 20,000 entrepreneurs in cities across the nation. The community consists of professionals across the natural and organic products industry, including food, beverage, beauty, products, supplements, and more. Naturally Network’s ecosystem positively unites and engages practices, […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 27, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
person pointing to laptop screen

How to Use ForceBrands’ Salary Reports to Plan Your Hiring Strategy

When it comes to attracting and retaining talent in today’s competitive job market, compensation is table stakes. Fair market compensation — the salary or wage that an employee would receive for a particular job in a specific geographic location, taking into account factors such as the job responsibilities, required skills and experience, and the prevailing job market conditions — is critical to the success of any business. “It’s important to recognize that our economic environment is ever-changing and it affects the hiring process,” Annette Kim, ForceBrands’ Director of Client Strategy, said. “It’s no surprise that today’s labor market is extremely […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 27, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
people sitting at a table

Understanding the Difference Between Lead Generation and Performance Growth Marketing

Lead generation and performance growth marketing are fundamental in the world of digital marketing. While they share some similarities, there are key differences between the two that marketers and brand professionals should be aware of to maximize their marketing strategy. Read on to explore the differences between lead generation and performance growth marketing and discover insights on how to effectively integrate both strategies into your marketing plan. Whether you’re a marketer looking to refine your abilities or are a business owner seeking to boost your revenue, understanding the nuances of these two approaches is essential for success. What is lead […]

project potluck lunch

ForceBrands Partners with Project Potluck for Expo West Networking Luncheon

ForceBrands joined forces with Project Potluck — a nonprofit on a mission to help People of Color (POC) build successful companies and careers in consumer packaged goods (CPG) — for an invite-only lunch during the week of Expo West. Hosted at the Hilton Anaheim, just steps from the trade show, more than 150 attendees from across the industry came together for an afternoon of networking. The luncheon’s primary goal was to provide a safe space for POC professionals to connect with allies and other POC leaders, as well as network as a collective. The event was a curated mix of […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 20, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
Whipstitch Panel Expo West

Highlights From Whipstitch’s “2023 Capital Markets and Building Value” Panel

Specialized investment firm Whipstitch Capital kicked off Expo West with a “2023 Capital Markets and Building Value” panel conversation that explored the status of the capital markets for consumer businesses, both M&A and private placements. Moderated by Whipstitch Capital’s Managing Director Michael Burgmaier, panelists included: Josh Wand, CEO and Founder of ForceBrands; Ryan Lewendon, Partner at Giannuzzi Lewendon; Megan Klingbeil, Partner at Anchin; Nick McCoy, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Whipstitch Capital; Edricco Reina, Managing Director and General Manager of Financial and Professional Services at SPINS; and Kristy Lewis, Founder of Quinn Snacks. Discover some of the highlights from the […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 20, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
ForceBrands team

Get to Know Some of ForceBrands’ #FemaleForces

The ForceBrands team is made up of incredibly talented individuals who work remotely, coast to coast — from Boston to Los Angeles. In celebration of Women’s History Month (March), we’re highlighting some #FemaleForces on our own team (it is 76 percent female, after all) who are helping to build today’s most exciting and impactful consumer brands. Read on to get to know some of our talented female leaders. Or, as we like to say, female forces. Annette Kim Title: Manager, Client StrategyRemote work location: Los AngelesWhat she does in her role: As a Manager of Client Strategy, I am your […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 19, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
computer screen with chatgpt

We Talked to ChatGPT About Creators and Creator Brands; Here’s What Happened

Hi ChatGPT! Let’s talk about creators. Sure, I’d be happy to talk about creators! What specifically would you like to discuss? What is a creator? A creator is someone who makes something original or innovative. They can be artists, musicians, writers, designers, programmers, inventors, or anyone who produces something new and unique. Creators can work in a wide range of fields and industries, and their creations can take many different forms, from visual art to software applications. Essentially, a creator is someone who brings something new into existence through their creativity, talent, and hard work. How would you define a […]

Chamberlain Coffee

Emma Chamberlain’s Coffee Company Proves Marketing Goes Beyond Celebrity

Emma Chamberlain, the “Cold Brew Queen” wanted to share her passion for java with the world, so she created Chamberlain Coffee. Almost immediately, her followers and coffee lovers around the country were hooked. Now, you can find Chamberlain Coffee in stores and online — and you can rock highly sought-after merch. But it took time and a lot of important decisions to get the company to where it is today. I spoke to Christopher Gallant, the CEO of Chamberlain Coffee about the brand’s success and the moments that transformed the company into a powerhouse. Alexis Benveniste: How did you get […]

women sitting on steps

#FemaleForces: 6 Industry Founders On Hiring and Leadership

When it comes to the consumer brand universe, women have found great success in launching game-changing startups that translate into household names. Billion-dollar brands like Glossier (valued at $1.8 billion) and Savage X Fenty (valued at $3 billion) are two that come to mind. According to Pitchbook, companies with at least one female founder comprised 34.6-44.5 percent of business-to-consumer deals between 2016 and 2022. But while these numbers are promising, the headwinds are still strong for creating breakout companies, especially when it comes to funding. Women-led startups receive less than 3 percent of all venture capital investments, research suggests. But […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 5, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
Impactful Search

Get to Know Impactful Search: Executive Hiring for Purpose-Driven Leadership

We’re excited to introduce and invite you to Impactful SearchⓇ, ForceBrands’ latest hiring solution for purpose-driven executive leadership. Finding a transformative leader who can drive and align commercial success and social mission is critical for growth, so we’ve designed an Executive Search practice focused exclusively on C-suite, executive, and board talent for consumer brands that align profitability and social impact.   Why now?  Because we’ve been listening. While ForceBrands has been placing executive leaders in game-changing companies for over 15 years, we created Impactful SearchⓇ — hiring a few leaders of our own — to build a practice that is thoughtful, immersive, and an invaluable resource for investors, founders, and executives.  Meet […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 1, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
women talking

Hiring for a Creator Brand? Focus on These Positions First

Hiring for a new brand is a unique challenge that requires attention and skill. Deciding where to begin can be tricky, especially when you’re balancing new hires with the voice and thought leadership of a creator, but we’re here to help.  While you might initially want to gravitate toward filling executive positions, it’s important to not pigeonhole yourself into only bringing on people who do the high-level work. Yes, big picture thinking is important, but you need to make sure you place an emphasis on hiring people who will do the work and focus on the more granular tasks that […]

forcebrands salary report

ForceBrands Releases 2023 Salary Reports for Consumer Brands

ForceBrands has released its 2023 Salary Reports for the following industries: beverage, food, beauty/wellness, and cannabis. The reports offer salary data across marketing, operations, sales, finance, and human resources. ForceBrands surveyed companies generating $10M-150M in revenue with under 500 employees. The data was compiled between January 2022 and February 2023. “Given the current economic climate, candidates are seeking out opportunities that offer stability. Whether it’s the financial health of the business, the company’s purpose-driven impact on the world, or a robust employee experience that aligns with their core values, today’s candidates are investing in their careers for the long-term,” said […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 21, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
flight fuel coffee

This Creator Launched a Brand Based Off of His Viral Videos

With more than nine million followers, Chris Olsen is a TikTok sensation. While he’s shared snippets of so many different parts of his life — from moments with Meghan Trainor to climbing poles in Croc high heels — one theme truly stuck and not only grew his following, but also kept his current followers coming back for more: coffee. Olsen’s viral video concept involved delivering coffee to celebrities around the world, from Austin Butler at the Elvis premiere in France to Drew Barrymore on the set of her show in LA. The series exploded so much, he had the opportunity […]

girl filming herself

ForceBrands Is the Force Behind Building Creator Brands

One of the things we pride ourselves on at ForceBrands is having a unique, front-row seat to the world of consumer brands. Because we focus on executive search and leadership recruitment, we’re able to assess a brand’s potential and scalability through its investment in human capital.  There’s a direct relationship between hiring and profitability. And we’ve seen a hiring demand that signals that brands with a creator at the helm are proving to be a leading consumer segment, with 50 million people identifying as “creators” and an estimated market size of more than $104 billion. This is where the investment […]

people sitting at a meeting

How Boosting Your Online Employer Brand Keeps Your Talent Funnel Stoked at All Times

In today’s competitive job market, it’s more important than ever to have a strong employer brand. Employer branding refers to the reputation and perception of a company as an employer, and a strong employer brand can help you attract top talent and improve employee retention. One key aspect of employer branding is a strong online presence, which can showcase your company culture and values, and provide job seekers with a positive candidate experience. In this article, we will explore the benefits of boosting your online employer brand, strategies for doing so, and best practices for managing your online employer brand. […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 12, 2023
  • Patrick Proctor
people at a desk

How Marketing Is the Most Difficult, But Rewarding Hire

The three Ps of marketing have historically been product, price, and promotion. But given the challenges of finding and keeping great marketing talent, there is a fourth critical P: people. Every organization needs people who can speak to its customers and influence their buying decisions. However, while marketing talent is essential to your success, finding the right candidates can often be challenging. Here’s what you need to know about the challenges of hiring marketers, and what you can do to realize the rewards of making a great marketing hire. The Challenges of Hiring Marketers  Having trouble attracting top marketing talent […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 6, 2023
  • Melanie Haniph
bailey brown forcebrands bachelor

Who Is Bailey Brown? Get to Know the Senior Executive Recruiter and Bachelor Contestant

Who is Bailey Brown? You may have seen Bailey Brown on season 27 of ABC’s popular Bachelor franchise. She made her debut during the live finale of last season’s show when the new Bachelor was announced and was shortly introduced to a few of the women he would soon be dating. Perhaps more memorable was when she emerged from the limousine to meet the Bachelor for a second time during the season’s premiere episode, which aired on January 23, and received the first kiss. Read on to learn more about Bailey Brown and what she does for a living. Who […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 26, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
Grow Book

Looking to Be Promoted? This Book’s for You

With more than two decades of experience working in the beverage industry, Randy Ornstein has helmed leadership roles at both Anheuser-Busch InBev and Gopuff, an e-commerce company at the forefront of the instant needs category. As a manager and a leader, Ornstein continually strived for his team to be timelier in communications, better participants at meetings, and more strategic during negotiations. In an effort to share his insights with others about how to be a top-notch employee, he wrote “Grow: The Essential Guide to Getting Promoted” (2023). “Grow” contains tangible tips to incorporate into your daily work life and is a […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 24, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
person on laptop

Inside the Creator Economy: 5 Creator Brands That Are Influencing the Consumer Industry

This is the golden age of content creation — 2023 is the year of the creator economy. Estimated to be worth more than $100 billion as of July 2022, content creation has proven its value, especially when it comes to powering marketing for brand building. Companies continue to make big investments in the creator economy with 75 percent of marketers leveraging the community to amplify products and services — a number expected to reach 86 percent in the next three years. The creator economy has proven two things: that anyone can garner fame online and that influence and popularity can […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 15, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at laptop

4 Tools to Make 2023 Your Most Productive and Successful Year at Work

A new year is a great time to set goals that help you maximize your productivity and professional development. With the right tools, you can make sure that you’re getting the most out of your work and career. From team collaboration platforms that improve workflow to online courses that help you level up your area of expertise, read on to discover some tools to help set you up for your most productive year yet. Here are some of the best productivity tools and professional development resources for 2023 to help you improve your career and get more done: 1. Enroll […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 8, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
people talking at the office

Our 2023 Predictions for Work, Business, and Hiring

What will 2023 have in store? If it’s anything like 2022, change is guaranteed. Already we’re entering into a year defined by record inflation, hybrid workplaces, economic uncertainty, and the influx of Gen Zers — the largest generation to enter the workforce. Considering these factors alone, we’re in for a year of great challenges but also one with the potential for remarkable progress in an ever-evolving post-pandemic world. We checked in with some of our ForceBrands leaders who offered insights into what we can expect from 2023 and beyond as it relates to consumer brands, hiring, and our workplaces. Read on […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 1, 2023
  • Rebecca Fryer
people around a table

The Big Ideas of 2023 That Will Change Our World

At the end of each year, the networking career platform LinkedIn releases its list of big ideas. The site’s editors aggregate feedback from its community of Top Voices and creators to offer predictions for the year ahead. What will 2023 have in store and what will it mean for the future of work, home, and everywhere in between? Below, we’re highlighting just of few of the ideas that will specifically shape business, the workplace, and hiring: Hybrid work will be the norm To return to the office or not. That will be the great workplace conundrum employers will face in […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 11, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man working on laptop

Employees Have Spoken and Here’s What They’ve Said About the Four-Day Workweek

The four-day workweek has been a popular topic of conversation since the start of the pandemic when workers largely embraced the transition to remote work. Since then, employers have entertained creating a shorter workweek and employees have asked for it. For many, the shift to remote work in the early days of Covid meant more flexibility. From changing wake-up times in the absence of commutes to longer working hours since the office was just down the hall, employees adjusted to work on their terms. But the newly remote workforce wasn’t without its challenges. The distinction between standard work hours began […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 4, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
employees in the office

Founders Share Key Ways to Retain Today’s Top Talent

Compensation will always be table stakes for employees but leaders know that it takes more than a paycheck to keep workers happy and engaged in their work. In an article for Entrepreneur, six founders from companies across industries shared insights and top tips for retaining star talent. Here’s what today’s workers want most from their jobs and the companies where they work: Mission-driven culture Purpose-led companies aren’t new but as workers reevaluated their careers amid the pandemic, they sought out meaningful work and organizations where they could add value. In today’s modern workforce, employees want to align their values with […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 27, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
counting cash

Compensation Expectations: Will You Get a Raise in 2023?

There’s good news and there’s bad news. The good news: companies are slated to increase compensation in the new year. The bad news: not everyone will receive a pay increase. According to a survey by workplace consultant Willis Towers Watson, employers are planning to raise salaries by an average of 4.6 percent in 2023. Fueled by a shortage of top talent and inflation, 2023’s pay raise estimate is the largest overall increase in 15 years. We checked in with our LinkedIn audience to get a pulse on their compensation expectations for 2023. According to our poll of more than 1,400 respondents, 58 […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 20, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman on laptop

The November Roundup: The Future of Work and Other Musings

Between the midterm elections and the arrival of the holiday season, November is a busy month. We’ve rounded up some popular articles and videos that have helped shape the month(so far) as it relates to workplace trends, hiring insights, and more. Read on to explore the latest news and leading conversations overheard in today’s workplace. Stick to passion and hire those who complement you Founder of KIND Daniel Lubetzky shared leadership insights on LinkedIn’s #RapidFire series earlier this week. Some highlights: learn from your failures and stick to your passions. “Find something that gives you meaning and then give it […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 13, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
new york city pedestrians

New York City’s Pay Transparency Law Is in Effect: Here’s What You Need to Know

New York City and California joined Colorado by instituting a salary transparency law that went into effect on November 1. And although it’s newly implemented, employers are already testing its limits. The law mandates that “good faith” salary ranges be posted in job listings, although it fails to clarify how wide that range should be. According to details about the law, “‘Good faith’ means the salary range the employer honestly believes at the time they are listing the job advertisement that they are willing to pay the successful applicant(s).” Job listings must also include a minimum and maximum salary. The […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 6, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man helping other man to read

#appreciateyou: Who Are You Most Grateful for in Your Career?

November is National Gratitude Month and while appreciation is certainly celebrated on Thanksgiving, the sentiment shouldn’t be reserved for a single holiday or even a month. In fact, research has proven that there are numerous benefits to practicing gratitude. Expressing your appreciation improves well-being, reduces stress, and helps build resilience. Research also suggests that practicing gratitude can help you become a more patient person — something that goes a long way in today’s busy workplace. At ForceBrands, we celebrate gratitude all year long by continually recognizing the people who inspire us to level up in our own careers. Our ongoing #appreciateyou campaign is a […]

  • Company Culture
  • November 4, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
people walking on street

How Today’s Executives Are Responding to Changing Workplace Norms

After years of changing office policies, weathering unforeseen business challenges caused by the pandemic, and trying to improve team morale amid rising resignation rates, today’s leaders are tired. They’re struggling to keep up with the demands of their employees and the expectations of their shareholders. And yet, despite all of these challenges, many leaders are still clinging to outdated methods of management. They’re relying on top-down decision-making, tight control over information, and a “my way or the highway” approach to problem-solving. This isn’t necessarily because they’re poor leaders. In many cases, it’s simply because they’re used to operating in a […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 30, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
on laptop

A Day in the Life: What Does a Recruiter Do?

Many job seekers are unsure of what a recruiter does. A recruiter is a professional who helps companies find the best candidates for open positions and also helps job seekers find roles that fit their unique skills and experience. If you’re a job seeker, then you likely already know that finding a new role is a full-time job. The hiring process can be overwhelming. The good news is that working with a recruiter helps ease the burden of the search. Keep reading to learn more about what a recruiter does, and how working with a recruiter can benefit you in […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 28, 2022
  • ForceBrands
man working at desk

Appreciation At Work: Do You Feel Recognized By Your Employer?

According to Gallup, employee recognition can save companies billions of dollars. In fact, researchers found that employers lose out on approximately $20 million for every 10,000 workers who feel drained from their workplaces. In other words, employee burnout is costly — not just for the worker. Employee burnout can largely be attributed to feeling overwhelmed with workload responsibilities. In addition, it’s not uncommon for burned-out employees to feel disconnected from the role itself. Keeping employees engaged and happy during the pandemic upheaval has proven challenging at best for employers. Engagement is critical for the success of the workforce and the overall […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 23, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man walking

Researchers Unlock the Secret to Ending the Great Resignation

According to September data published in MIT Sloan School of Management’s journal, one in 10 people consider their workplace toxic. A January report found that a toxic workplace is 10 times more likely to drive workers away than low compensation. And often, it takes only a bad manager to create an environment toxic enough to make someone resign. The Great Resignation has been a popular topic of conversation in today’s changing workforce. But according to researchers, there may be an end in sight to the workplace movement if leadership is willing to step up and properly address it. Research from MIT’s […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 16, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
walking with dog

How to Push Your Boundaries to Achieve Big Things

Have you ever considered that the only thing standing in the way of accomplishing your loftiest goals just might be you? When it comes to achieving aspirational goals, mindset, accountability, and other factors play key roles. Best-selling author, speaker, and executive coach Nicholas Leighton helps business owners be happier and more profitable. In an article for Entrepreneur, Leighton outlines six practical ways to push your limits to accomplish things you never thought possible. “Growth comes from pushing the limits of what’s possible within your existing skill set and expertise,” Leighton shares with Entrepreneur. “Of the hundreds of entrepreneurs I have coached, the most successful […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 9, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man on laptop with dog

The October Roundup: 3 Spooky Revelations About Today’s Workforce

The final quarter of the year is here and we’re taking a look at some of the most talked about trends and insights from today’s ever-evolving workplace. And, because it’s October, we’re highlighting some of the spookier themes haunting today’s workforce. From quiet quitting to overly compensated new hires, here’s what to expect this fall. Leaders are scared of quiet quitting Sure, it’s a spooky time of year. And if there’s one thing employers fear most about the workforce, it’s disengagement. Leaders are worried about quiet quitters. According to Chief Workplace Psychologist Ben Granger at survey firm Qualtrics, executives at […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 2, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
laptop with coffee

4 Ways to Jumpstart Your End-of-Year Goals

Remember your New Year’s resolutions — those ambitious goals you set at the beginning of the year? Whether they were professional or personal, big dreams or little wins, they very likely had growth and motivation in mind. With the final quarter of the year upon us, it’s never been a better time to revisit these goals. Here are some expert ways you can find the motivation to achieve all you set out to accomplish this year. Tap into expert insight One of the best books on the subject of goal-setting is “The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 25, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man looking at phone

The September Roundup: Everything We Know About Today’s Workplace

From Quiet Quitting to promising job market data amid layoff reports, it’s been a busy summer. Before we begin the fall season — one where many employers actively map out their growth strategies for the next year and assess their budgets — we wanted to take a moment to aggregate some of the major workplace themes and trends that we’ve seen take shape over the summer. Here are some key trends and highlights from today’s ever-evolving workplace: Job switchers reap the biggest raises Surprise, surprise. Perhaps it’s one of the oldest tricks in the book, but the most efficient and […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 4, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at desk

The State of the Workplace: Disengaged and Stressed?

It’s difficult to keep up with workplace trends, especially as they’ve rapidly evolved during these past few years. New terms that often offer sweeping generalizations about the changing workforce (ie: “The Great Resignation” and “Quiet Quitting”) are coined almost weekly. And while LinkedIn may have named “The Great Reshuffle,” there are some larger underlying themes in the workforce that are responsible for creating these trendy catchphrases. Engagement is a big piece to both The Great Resignation and the Quiet Quitting puzzle. Gallup’s 2022 State of the Global Workplace — an annual report which represents the collective voice of the global employee […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 28, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
SKU Elevate Showcase

Watch the SKU Elevate Showcase 2022

Founders of the six brands who participated in the second cohort of SKU Elevate (formerly the SKU M/O Track) will celebrate the culmination of the program with a virtual pitch event. The showcase will debut on August 25 at 12 pm CT. This groundbreaking program for BIPOC (Black and Indigenous people of color) founders was created to foster a more inclusive community in the CPG industry.  SKU Elevate (formerly known as the SKU M/O Track) is an 8-week virtual program that provides education, mentorship, and networking. Brands were chosen based on their traction, innovation, and their founder story. The program is […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 25, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
Cynthia Billops

OSC’s Cynthia Billops On Rethinking Mentorship to Build a More Equitable Workplace

The workplace as we know it is evolving rapidly. Remote offices are the norm, the largest working generation (Gen Z) is entering the workforce, and fostering an equitable work environment has never been more top of mind for employers — especially if they hope to attract and retain top talent. We caught up with Cynthia Billops, Vice President of Operations and Memberships and Belonging at One Step Closer (OSC), to discuss one of the most critical parts of everyone’s career journey as it relates to development: mentorship. And, as it turns out, how we think about mentorship needs to be — […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 22, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman texting

How Wizard Commerce Is Shaping the Future of Retail One Text at a Time

Today’s consumer brands that aspire to get in front of their customers must be mobile-first. While this might sound simple enough, businesses that connect with consumers via text messages are often missing one critical piece to the SMS messaging puzzle: engagement. Enter Wizard, a powerful conversational commerce solution — co-founded by Marc Lore and Melissa Bridgeford — that’s revolutionizing mobile shopping. “The value of text commerce is not just in sales but in data and knowledge. Wizard provides brands with rich data about their customers’ orders, preferences, behaviors, and insights,” the platform’s CEO and co-founder Bridgeford said. “This helps to […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 21, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
lightbulbs

Inc. 5000 2022: These Consumer Brands Are Among the Most Successful Companies in America

Inc. magazine revealed its 2022 Inc. 5000, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at independent American companies that have achieved spectacular growth. What’s more is that these companies not only survived a tumultuous global pandemic, they’ve thrived. With resilience, spirit, grit, and perseverance, this year’s honorees have successfully and admirably built their businesses — and many on a global scale. Among those recognized on the list, some of ForceBrands’ industry friends, partners, and collaborators include HighKey, MUD/WTR, Hero Cosmetics, Tractor Beverage Co., Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, Koia, Banza, Sweet Loren’s, Wana Brands, Jeni’s Splendid […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 17, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
coffee on table

The Key to WFH Success? Your Morning Routine

If you’re one of the many workers who transitioned to a remote workplace amid the pandemic, you’ve very likely had to adjust your schedule. With the absence of a morning commute, the rhythm of your daily routine has been altered. An article from Employee Benefit News highlights how morning routines hold the key to optimizing WFH life. Author of “Beating Burnout At Work,” Paula Davis says morning routines set the tone for the rest of the day. Similar to how micro-habits ultimately create a foundation for sustainable growth, beginning each day with small wins can help lay the framework for […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 14, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man running on beach

Unlock Your Growth Potential in Just 9.6 Minutes a Day

Have you ever heard of the expression, Rome wasn’t built in a day? The adage suggests that greatness takes time. And several behavior experts agree that this theory isn’t only true, but it may also be the key to unlocking your growth potential. According to the author of “Atomic Habits,” James Clear, personal and professional growth can be achieved by implementing small positive habits over time. But how much time exactly? Clear says that if you become 1 percent better each day, then you will be 37 times improved by the end of the year. A recent Entrepreneur article broke it […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 31, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
plastic in the ocean

One Step Closer to Zero Waste: A Conversation with OSC’s Packaging Collaborative Director Jake Hebert

Plastic-Free July is a campaign initiated by One Step Closer (OSC) to highlight the steps their Packaging and Climate Collaborative is taking this month to raise awareness about climate change. Some of their initiatives include a trash collection challenge in collaboration with Alter Eco to be #1StepClosertoZeroWaste. In addition, they’ve been sharing helpful tips all month long to encourage brands to amplify this message by sharing relevant content to their channels and pushing for policy signatures. To help spread awareness about climate change, we caught up with Jake Hebert, Director of OSC’s Packaging Collaborative — a group of natural product […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 25, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
buildings

Now Hiring? How Companies are Responding to Recession Concerns

There have been a lot of conversations about economic uncertainty and the job market, especially in the last six months. Even while data from a recent jobs report is less indicative of an economic slump, recession concerns are validated by rising interest rates and record-high inflation. Many companies are also restructuring their teams. Layoffs, hiring freezes, and rescinded job offers have affected the tech industry and startup community for months. But despite these tell-tale signs of economic trouble, some experts cite that layoffs are “near historical lows.” So what’s really happening inside companies as they plan for the road ahead? […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 17, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
having coffee outside

Job Market Data Offers a Bright Spot Amid Recession Concerns

Are we already in the midst of a recession? The job market doesn’t think so. While a recession is defined (by technical terms) by gross domestic product (GDP) shrinking for two consecutive quarters, some experts argue that we’re already in one, especially if August’s GDP data follows the first quarter’s 1.4 percent decline. But even amid recession fears, the labor market is proving to be a bright spot. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. economy added 372,000 jobs in June — a number much higher than the 250,000 jobs that economists predicted. This healthy bolster in jobs means that the […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 10, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman sitting on bench

The Price of a Dream Job: Would You Take a Pay Cut for the Ultimate Opportunity?

Would you take a pay cut for your dream job? It’s a tough question but it may be easier to answer depending on what your role is, says LinkedIn‘s latest Workforce Confidence Index. The survey analyzed 25 careers to see who’s most tempted to leave their current role for one that’s more enjoyable but offers less pay. We wanted to check in with you to see what you had to say on the matter. In a ForceBrands LinkedIn poll, we asked you to weigh in about the cost of your dream job — specifically, if you would take a pay cut for a near-perfect […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 2, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
abortion protest

Consumer Brands Respond to Ruling Overturning Roe v. Wade

On June 24, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to overturn Roe v. Wade, affecting countless Americans. In a historic 5-4 vote, Roe v. Wade — the 1973 landmark decision that guaranteed a constitutional right to an abortion — was struck down. While the widespread impact of the decision will reverberate for weeks, months, and years, people and corporations were quick to speak out. Major U.S. companies like Meta, Apple, Disney, and JPMorgan Chase responded to the ruling by stating that they will cover all travel-related costs for employees seeking reproductive medical care. We looked at our own community of consumer […]

  • ForceBrands
  • June 28, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
spring sisters

How Spring Sisters Makes Work Easier for Ambitious Startups and Established Brands

When Sheila Friedland founded boutique outsourcing solutions provider Spring Sisters, she based it on one simple idea: to make work easier.  As a project coordinator in her last role, Friedland was familiar with the pains of outsourcing.  “There’s a unique set of problems that companies of all sizes face when trying to achieve long-term, sustainable growth,” she said. “Leveraging more than a decade of experience and a long list of happy clients, Spring Sisters focuses on key growth opportunity areas like supply chain, visual branding, design, and project management — all of which are critical to success.” Working with people […]

  • ForceBrands
  • June 14, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
women collaborating

DEI: Building the New Normal with OSC’s Cynthia Billops

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) sounds simple enough, but its implementation into actionable change is still very much a work in progress. According to Cynthia Billops, Vice President of Operations and Memberships and Belonging at One Step Closer (OSC), there’s a long way to go before we reach the new normal. “What I love about the DEI acknowledgment is that it presumes work,” Billops said. “It presumes that we need to consciously decide that we are headed for a normal that is more even, fair, just, and equitable.” We caught up with Billops to learn about her background, how OSC’s […]

  • ForceBrands
  • June 6, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man on his phone and laptop

Is This Hot, New Skill On Your Résumé? Experts Say It Should Be

From office closures to flexible work schedules, the pandemic has disrupted the workplace as we knew it. But those who have adapted more readily to their new work environments are being touted by experts as having a ‘source of power.‘ In a recently published article from Business Insider, ‘hybrid competence’ is being dubbed the latest soft skill that could positively impact your career. But what does it mean to be hybrid competent? Associate professor of organizational behavior at INSEAD Mark Mortensen, who has researched remote work for years, says that it pays to be resourceful in today’s hybrid workforce. Those who […]

  • Career Advice
  • June 5, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
Toasty Almond

Foxtrot Awards 6 Female-Founded DTC Brands Shelf Space

Convenience store of the future Foxtrot announcing the newest winners of its Up & Comers Small Makers Awards, a program to uncover the best emerging food and beverage brands. Last year’s inaugural winner Omsom, the fast-growing Asian pantry staples brand, has continued to take the CPG space by storm since earning its ‘Hero Winner’ title. “Our Up & Comers program embodies what we do at Foxtrot every day — discovering small makers who are just as passionate about food as we are, and bringing their delicious and best-in-class products to our customers to enjoy,” said Carla Dunham, Chief Marketing Officer at Foxtrot. “We’re […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 31, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
SKU Elevate

CPG Accelerator ‘SKU Elevate’ Announces Second Cohort for Diverse Founders

SKU, the nation’s first consumer packaged goods (CPG) accelerator, has selected the second cohort of SKU Elevate for June 2022. The six companies were chosen from more than 250 applications and were selected from brands across the country. This groundbreaking program was created to foster a more inclusive community in the CPG industry.  SKU Elevate (formerly known as the SKU M/O Track) is an eight-week virtual program that provides education, mentorship, and networking. Brands were chosen based on their traction, innovation, and their founder story. The program is aimed at brands with revenues of less than $100,000. “We had so […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 26, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
graduation hats

What’s Ahead for the ‘Most In-Demand College Graduates’ in Years

The road to graduation hasn’t been an easy one for the class of 2022. Campus quarantines, Covid testing, and Zoom classes have largely defined their college experience. And while the past four years were difficult to navigate, the future looks promising for today’s students graduating amid a pandemic. Today’s candidate-driven job market means that opportunities abound for new hires. And, what’s more, employers are making an investment in recent graduates. The Wall Street Journal reports that 16 percent of employers surveyed in February and March said they’d double up on new graduate hires this year compared to 2021. Other studies […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 22, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man on mountain at night

How Summit Junto Helps High-Octane Doers ‘Find Their People’

Even in a world of hyper-connectivity, it can be difficult to find your people — those who are like-minded and share your same energy and enthusiasm for leveling up. That’s where Summit Junto comes in. Bringing people together in highly curated personal advisory boards, Summit Junto is a leadership community unlike any other. We caught up with Summit’s Partner, Global Director, and Chief Executive Officer Jody Levy and Summit’s Partner and Chief Product Officer Jess Berne Strombelline to learn more about the program and how it’s helping the world’s visionaries put their dreams to work. ForceBrands: What makes Summit Junto […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 15, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
mother at computer with child

These Are the Best States for Working Moms

As if being a working mother didn’t come with enough responsibilities, the pandemic ushered in a new set of challenges. Lack of childcare and the adjustment to homeschooling and remote working have led many moms to reconsider their professional lives. As a result, nearly 2.3 million women have left the workforce since the start of the pandemic and that figure doesn’t account for the layoffs and furloughs that affected women in the early months of 2020. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, based on information from the Current Population Survey, nearly 10 million U.S. mothers living with school-age children were not […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 11, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
wine at home

3 Hidden Mental Health Hurdles That Hinder Productivity

You’ve gotten used to working from home, back in the office, or a bit of both. You’ve emerged from the pandemic with a renewed perspective of what matters most to you in your career. You’ve likely adapted to changes in your routine that have now become normal. So, now what? We’ve talked a lot about mental health over the past two years, especially as it relates to workplace productivity. And while there’s an abundance of online resources available and newly-implemented programs by employers that prioritize it among their workforces, there are some overlooked hurdles that may be hindering productivity at […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 24, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
Shaz & Kiks

5 Sustainable, Emerging Consumer Brands to Celebrate On Earth Day

The theme of this year’s Earth Day is #InvestInOurPlanet because “a green future is a prosperous future,” the organization cites on its website. Since 1970, Earth Day has engaged nearly 200 countries and mobilized one billion individuals to take action. This year, the global movement is igniting change with its Earth Day Climate Action Summit that’s focusing on offering key solutions that will help deliver the greenhouse gas reductions needed by 2030 to meet the Paris Agreement. For many of today’s youngest consumer brands, sustainability isn’t just a priority, it’s a brand mantra. To celebrate Earth Day, we’re highlighting some sustainable, emerging consumer brands […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 22, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
amazon

LinkedIn’s Top 50 Companies to Work for in 2022

LinkedIn released their top companies of 2022 that are investing in their talent and helping people build careers for long-term success. These 50 U.S. workplaces were named the best companies for professionals to grow their careers. From global e-commerce giant Amazon to financial services leader J.P. Morgan, these employers are investing in their people and know how to attract and retain top talent in today’s highly competitive job market. We’re sharing a few notable companies in the consumer brand universe that were featured on the list. Read on to explore some of the best U.S.-based companies to work for in […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 13, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
laptop in bag

Pandemic Career Pivots: Reimagining Our Careers for the Post-Pandemic World

The Great Resignation. The Great Reshuffle. And now, the Great Reimagination. The workforce has indeed undergone major shifts during the course of the past few years. Career pivots have been a popular topic of conversation since, well, the start of the pandemic. The transition from offices to virtual workspaces prompted many employees to revisit their careers and ask themselves what they truly want from them. In two years, we’ve learned that compensation, flexibility, and meaningful work matter most to today’s professionals. And more than that, they’re willing to make career transitions in pursuit of fulfilling, rewarding work. Nearly one in […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 10, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
new york office

4 Ways the Metaverse Will Reshape Our Work Lives

The pandemic has forever reimagined how we think about work. Since 2020, many companies have adopted fully remote or hybrid workplaces. And while employees have adjusted to these changes, they’re also revisiting what they want from their careers. Flexible schedules and more meaningful work are among their top priorities. Employers that don’t keep up with changing employee expectations and demands will lose out on attracting and retaining talent. But just as employees adapt to work on their own terms, the workplace is set to change once more with the introduction of the metaverse. So, what does that mean for employees […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 6, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at laptop

The Future of Conversational Marketing with Vocinity’s CEO Michael Riemer

How we engage with consumers is changing rapidly. In the past two years alone, brands have had to adapt to new strategies for creating compelling and effective consumer experiences. Vocinity offers a unique solution: conversational video brand assistants. We caught up with the company’s CEO Michael Riemer to learn more about how the technology works, where brands are finding value, the future of conversational marketing, and more. “The time has come for more engaging and informative consumer experiences,” said Riemer. “Whether on the phone, on the web, or in stores, Vocinity personal shopping and service assistants answer questions, share information, and […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 4, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
cannabis greenhhouse

TIME100’s Most Influential Consumer Brands of 2022

At ForceBrands we have the unique opportunity and privilege to work with some of the world’s most innovative and inspiring consumer brands. It’s no surprise then to see several of them named on TIME100’s list of Most Influential Companies of 2022. From a global cannabis leader to a craft beer revolution, these businesses are making extraordinary impacts in their respective industries and around the world. Here are a few breakout companies featured on this year’s list: Curaleaf Curaleaf is a leading medical and wellness cannabis operator that serves more than 350,000 registered patients across 23 states. The company is committed to […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 3, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
women holding money

Women Are Earning Larger Pay Raises

Did you know that women are earning higher wages than ever before? While there are still some disparities between men’s and women’s wages, this is the smallest wage gap that has ever existed. So what is causing this change? And what can we do to continue to close the wage gap? Here are some reasons why women are earning more money than ever before. The rise in women’s pay In recent years, there’s been an overall increase in women’s pay in the workforce. The rise in women’s wages has been attributed to an increasing number of women in high-skill jobs, […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 27, 2022
  • ForceBrands
woman at desk

Perks, Passion, and Pay: Can You Have It All in a Job?

We’ve been asking our audience a lot lately about what they value most in a job. The pandemic has encouraged employees to question every aspect of their work — from compensation to workplace flexibility. We want to know how perks, benefits, passion, and pay all stack up now that career priorities have shifted amid Covid. In favor of better benefits Recently, we posed a question on LinkedIn asking if you would make the switch from a job that was a financial and professional dream to one that offered better benefits. The majority of the 1,400+ respondents (more than 60 percent) said that they would take […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 13, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man hailing cab

Are We Headed Back to the Office or Destined to Work Remotely Forever?

It’s been a popular topic of conversation since, well, the start of the pandemic. While many thought offices would only close temporarily for a few weeks, some have shuttered for good. For many, fully remote workplaces are here to stay. In a recent ForceBrands LinkedIn poll, we asked our audience if their company was headed back to the office. Here’s what you had to say. The majority of the 1,300+ respondents (41 percent) said that they were already back in the office in some capacity, whether it’s full-time or hybrid. Slightly less than one-third of respondents (30 percent) said that […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 9, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer

ForceBrands Partners with Naturally Network to goHIRE

We’re excited to announce our newest goHIRE partner Naturally Network, joining our growing list of organizations tapping into our audience of consumer brand professionals. Together, we built a custom job board for the Naturally Network community. This platform allows Naturally Network member companies to find the best consumer brand talent, while harnessing the power of our technology to manage applicants and extend the reach to the ForceBrands job seeker network, nationwide. Naturally Network advances and champions the wide-ranging ecosystem that makes up the natural and organic products industry. An agent of change, its mission is to harness, accelerate, and elevate the power and impact of […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 4, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
ForceBrands newsletters

Discover ForceBrands’ Newsletters: Subscribe to Be a Consumer Brand Insider

As the leader in strategic hiring for consumer brands, we know a thing or two about industry trends, the state of the job market, and who’s making career moves. Whether you’re looking to level up in your career and are seeking some professional development resources, or you’re interested in sharpening your industry knowledge, we have a newsletter for you. Explore the world of ForceBrands’ newsletters below and sign up for the one that’s right for you. Next Steps ForceBrands’ flagship executive newsletter that launches bi-weekly every other Sunday, Next Steps is a must-read for today’s executives building tomorrow’s global consumer […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 1, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at desk

Show Me the Money? Here’s What You Had to Say About Compensation

Compensation. Always the first thing employees mention when asked about their reasons for staying at their job or leaving it. Many companies froze salaries and even reduced them during the pandemic. So we were wondering what’s happening with compensation two years after COVID-19 wreaked havoc on, well, just about everything. Our take from where we sit as recruiters? With the Great Resignation well underway, employers might want to step up their compensation efforts for the better to keep top performers. The ‘halves and half nots’ Our poll found that heading into the final days of 2021, only half of respondents […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 13, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at laptop

The Future of Recruiting and What Candidates Should Know

What a long, strange trip it’s been. Amid a global pandemic, the job market is the most unusual it’s been in modern American history. According to a report from MissionSquare Research Institute, “We’re teetering on the brink of a public sector workforce crisis” as the Great Resignation continues to ripple throughout the U.S. economy. Hiring has changed. Attracting and retaining talent has never been more challenging. With the Great Resignation in full swing, workers are leaving their jobs for a variety of reasons from inadequate compensation to pandemic burnout. “As a result, across all industries, what we’re seeing is that […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 30, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at desk

How Hiring Managers Can Rebound From the Great Resignation

Today’s job market is unlike anything we’ve seen in recent years. Candidates are in the driver’s seat. Compensation is almost as important as workplace flexibility. Hiring managers must move quickly with top talent or otherwise risk losing them in the hiring process. It’s a lot, especially when you consider the fact that nearly 33 million Americans quit their jobs since the spring of 2021.  We caught up with Connor MacWilliams, ForceBrands‘ Senior Director of Executive Recruitment and Operations, to learn more about how companies can attract and retain talent, and ultimately rebound from the Great Resignation. When it comes to securing top talent, […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 28, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
springdale ventures

6 Inspiring DTC Brands to Watch in 2022

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) startups have thrived during the past decade. Fueled by venture capital funding, low competition, and abundant advertising opportunities, several companies leveraged this unique business model to achieve unicorn status. Today, the DTC space is more competitive than ever and investors are savvier – now relying on years of data intelligence to help inform their investing strategies. Industry experts note how brands approach their DTC strategies will ultimately determine just how innovative they are.  Launched in 2019, Austin, Texas-based Springdale Ventures is not only one of the very few VC funds that focuses exclusively on investing in early-stage, transformative […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 24, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at laptop

Are Learning Organizations the Key to Keeping Talent? Here’s What You Had to Say

For brands to catch fire, companies rely on talent, marketing, and technology as kindling. The pandemic was an accelerant — fast-tracking trends, compressing timelines, and requiring skills of the future, now. Keeping competency current and being proactively prepared for what’s next has never been more important. To build on Albert Einstein’s quote: “Once you stop learning, your career starts dying.” Here’s what employees think about professional development and employers that create a learning organization. Obsolescence anxiety Evolving and emerging technology is constantly disrupting and progressing how we work and the skills our jobs require. It can feel overwhelming, and it’s […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 23, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at desk

Motivation at Work: Here’s How We’re Goal-Setting in 2022

We kicked off the year by asking our Start It Sunday community how they’re approaching work in the new year. Start It Sunday — our initiative designed to empower you to take charge of your career — is all about motivating, after all. More than half of our survey’s respondents (56 percent) reported that they’re working full-time from remote workspaces. And while studies prove that productivity is boosted when working from these virtual workspaces, it can be difficult to feel engaged at work when you’re not physically present in the office. When asked how motivated respondents feel in their current […]

  • Career Advice
  • January 16, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
workplace

Here’s What You Had to Say About DEI at Work

Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Meaningful mandate or empty words? In a series of polls on ForceBrands’ LinkedIn page, we set out to learn how employers are responding to the social justice events of the past few years and what actions they’re taking to build more inclusive workforces. DEI cannot be an afterthought for today’s organizations — it must be a priority. With this in mind, we’d like to know: Are companies purposely refreshing their cultures and changing policies and procedures to support a DEI-centered workplace, or are actions limited to superficial social media statements? DEI isn’t just a nice-to-have Our research explored how […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 9, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at desk

Behind the Scenes of The Great Reshuffle

The Great Reshuffle, as coined by LinkedIn editors, has disrupted the workforce in unforeseen ways. The pandemic has put candidates in the driver’s seat of the job market and according to LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslanksy, it’s “unlike anything we’ve seen in the history of work.” So who exactly are these candidates and why are they motivated to change jobs or leave them altogether? What’s causing The Great Reshuffle? According to a Harris Poll conducted in summer 2021 on behalf of Personal Capital, the majority of Americans polled (66 percent) expressed interest in changing or quitting their jobs in the pandemic-induced phenomenon dubbed “YOLO economy” and […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 7, 2022
  • Rebecca Fryer
people taking a walk

Top HR Trends of 2022

The past two years have arguably been some of the most challenging ones that HR professionals have ever faced. This means that going into 2022, new trends will permeate how we think about people management. Simply put, the industry as we know it is evolving. HR professionals will have no choice but to change how they do things in the coming year (if they haven’t already). Read on as we explore a few of the top HR trends that will drive change in 2022. We’ll also discuss a few opportunities to help HR departments cope with these new challenges.  Managing […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 26, 2021
  • ForceBrands
man at computer

The Essential End-of-Year Checklist for Job Seekers

It’s that time of year again when the holiday season is in full swing. As people step away from their work to celebrate with family and friends, it can seem like the hiring process gets put on hold. Our executive recruiters, however, say it’s an optimal time for candidates to continue the search and leverage any downtime they might have to set themselves up for success in 2024. So if you’re a job seeker, we have some pro tips on how to stay focused through the end of the month and into the new year. Here’s a checklist to help […]

  • Career Advice
  • December 19, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
people sitting around a table

‘Culture Fit’ Is a Myth and Here’s Why

The Great Resignation has caused a major disruption in the workforce. But perhaps the silver lining to this ‘Great Reshuffle‘ is that it’s encouraged us to reconsider what matters most to us when it comes to working. As it turns out, money can only go so far. Who we work with and where we work is fundamental to our happiness and productivity. Company culture has never been more important. When sizing up a new career opportunity, candidates often ask themselves if they ‘see themselves there.’ In other words, they want to be sure they’ll be a good match for the […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 17, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
people brainstorming

These Are the 29 Big Ideas That Will Change Our World in 2022

Each year, professional networking platform LinkedIn releases a list of big ideas that will shape the new year. Last year’s list predicted that 2021 would be the year we returned to the office, focused our leadership style on character, and designated more C-suite seats to women, among other thoughts. So what does 2022 have in store for us and how did these 29 ideas come to be? LinkedIn editors reach out to their community of Influencers, Top Voices, and frequent contributors to share the ideas that they believe will define the year ahead. Read on for a selection of handpicked thoughts […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 12, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
office space

This Is How Many Desks Will Remain Empty in the Post-Pandemic Workplace

Currently, there are 125 million full-time jobs across the U.S. Nearly half of those jobs can be done remotely. To get more clarity on what the workplace will look like after the pandemic, analytics and advisory company Gallup decided to investigate. Through their research, they determined that a stagging 30 percent of the 60 million employees who have the ability to work from home, would prefer to “never” return to the office during the week. Just 10 percent would prefer working from the office from Monday through Friday. How did the majority — the middle 60 percent — respond? Not […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 7, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
people at the office

Inside The Great Reshuffle and What It Means for the Future of Work

The pandemic has shaken up the workplace in many different ways. This great reshuffling was challenging at first, but it helped us discover new, innovative ways to collaborate, communicate, and even grow. It also helped new sectors of the economy flourish, offering various job opportunities along the way.  All of this occurred as workers developed new ways to approach their work. The traditional 9-to-5 office schedule is coming under scrutiny, forcing employers to make big changes. In this post, we’ll discuss what the great reshuffling is, how it has impacted employers, and what it could mean for the future of […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 5, 2021
  • ForceBrands
man at two computers

Do You Have a Side Hustle? Here’s What You Had to Say

Side hustles have become overwhelmingly popular, with perhaps more employees than ever before choosing to explore their professional interests and passions outside of their full-time work. Now, in a new LinkedIn poll, ForceBrands discovers just how popular side hustles have become, and what people are saying about them. Nearly half of surveyed LinkedIn audience have a side hustle ForceBrands recently asked its LinkedIn audience if they have a side hustle. At the close of the poll, nearly 1,000 people had responded. The results illustrate a nearly 50/50 split: 49 percent of respondents said they have a side hustle, and 51 […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 19, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
man at laptop

What Do Employees Want Most From Their Jobs? Here’s What You Had to Say

How are employees feeling amid the pandemic? Through a series of LinkedIn polls, we set out to find some answers. As it turns out, there are a lot of changes happening in the workforce, particularly when it comes to the demands of employees. With unemployment numbers shrinking, employees are in the driver’s seat in this hiring market. So what keeps employees in their jobs, and what lures them away? Culture club or clash                                  What matters most to employees aside from money? Findings from our report revealed that 38 percent of employees said company culture is most […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 16, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman on laptop

Demystifying the Side Hustle

Side hustles, also commonly referred to as side gigs or moonlighting jobs, can comprise a broad range of activities employees undertake outside of their normal work hours. Using their evenings, weekends, and vacations to engage in paid jobs, consulting, and freelancing, employees are pursuing side hustles in increasing numbers these days. A side hustle often requires a significant investment of time and dedication, so it’s not for the faint of heart. But what makes the side hustle appealing to so many people? And how interested should employers be in employees who have one? Why some employees get a side hustle […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 13, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
empty office

The Haunting Reality of Ghosting in the Workplace

For better or worse, the economy has been undergoing some unusual changes for some time now. One of the most noticeable changes gaining steam in the workplace is professional ghosting. This comes as the demand for workers continues to rise and employees become more aware of the surprising benefits of the gig economy. Add to that the fact that modern communication patterns have, essentially, normalized ghosting. The result? A growing trend that’s negatively impacting both employers and job seekers.  What does the new workplace ghosting trend mean?  How unusual is it that candidates ignore calls from hiring managers eager to […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 12, 2021
  • ForceBrands
Springdale Ventures

Company We Keep: How Springdale Ventures Is Unique in the World of CPG VCs

The consumer brand universe is dynamic and ever-evolving. Each day, new emerging businesses enter the market fueled by visionary founders and disruptive products. And with every early-stage venture, comes the inevitable need for funding. So where do today’s early-stage consumer businesses look for the “smart money” financial support they need to grow and scale? And amid a sea of venture capital (VC) funds, how do they identify the most strategic and value add partnerships? Launched in 2019, Austin, Texas-based Springdale Ventures is one of the very few VC funds that focuses exclusively on investing in early-stage, transformative consumer businesses. As […]

  • Company Culture
  • November 1, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
man on couch

Everything You Need to Know About Gen Z and the Job Search

Gen Zers were born into a world dominated by technology. This has impacted everything from their work ethic to how they communicate with employers and coworkers. Digitally savvy and ambitious, they are motivated by different factors than older generations and expect things like more flexible work environments and growth opportunities. If these expectations aren’t met, then there is a good chance that your company will lose out on talent.  What Gen Zers are looking for Gen Zers are looking to make an impact with their work. They seek out companies that match their beliefs and are doing this through various […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 10, 2021
  • ForceBrands
people working at laptop

Here’s What Gen Zers Really Want From the Workplace

To keep your business functioning at optimal levels, you need to hire the best talent. Today’s youngest members of the workforce are Gen Zers, born between 1995 and 2010. Currently, 89 percent of Gen Zers are active job searchers, with 63 percent of them on the lookout for a business-related role. However, to effectively recruit Gen Zers, you must know what they’re looking for from an employer.  To capture the attention of Gen Zers, you need to competitively offer the things that they value most from a company. Quality training opportunities, generous paid leave/time off, and premium medical coverage are […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 7, 2021
  • ForceBrands
ForceBrands Gen Z Report

ForceBrands Releases Exclusive Gen Z Workplace Report

There’s a seismic shift happening in the workforce. Over the past two years, the pandemic has ushered in a wave of changes. Many employees have transitioned from working in offices to remote locations. For others, they’re leaving their jobs altogether in a movement being dubbed The Great Resignation. This is creating notable gaps in employment that are being felt across all sectors of business. But with great change comes great opportunity. A new generation of workers is on the rise. Enter Gen Z. Gen Z, or those born between 1995-2010, currently represent 24 percent of all workers, with this number […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 30, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman working at laptop

Savvy Ways to Develop Your Top Talent

Issues facing the business world today are not a direct cause of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is fair to say that the pandemic accelerated their progression. Presently, the issue at hand is how to retain and develop the top talent at an organization. As we have seen this year, record numbers of people have left their jobs. Making significant headlines in April was the nearly 4 million Americans who quit their jobs. Based on information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, July is closing in on that April record.  This highlights the need to ensure that top talent is […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 26, 2021
  • ForceBrands
man walking with bike and coffee

Here’s What You Had to Say About Talent Mobility

Where, when, and how we work has shifted. The Great Resignation is here. Employees who hung onto jobs during the pandemic now have their feelers out. The job market is active and candidates have shifted their priorities when it comes to what matters most to them in their careers. For many, a search for meaning has a stronger pull. Work-life balance is no longer a sought-after ideal, it’s an expectation. In our latest LinkedIn poll findings, we explore the topic of talent mobility as the world slowly emerges from the worst of the pandemic. The results of our surveys address […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 26, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
computer on desk

Inside Executive Recruiting at ForceBrands with Connor MacWilliams

What does an Executive Recruiter at ForceBrands do? We checked in with ForceBrands’ Connor MacWilliams, Senior Director of Executive Recruitment and Operations, to learn more. “An Executive Recruiter at ForceBrands is responsible for being a matchmaker for our clients and finding them the best people to work at their organization,” Connor said. “We source the best talent across all industries and make sure that their skill set and that their soft skills align with our clients’ needs.” Connor went on to discuss what he finds most rewarding about working at ForceBrands. “I think the thing that I enjoy most about working at ForceBrands […]

  • Company Culture
  • September 22, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
mezcal

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with These 6 Unique Brands

From September 15 to October 15 each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month. This annual celebration of the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic Americans was started in 1968 by President Lyndon Johnson. President Ronald Reagan extended this week into a month-long celebration in 1988. According to the United States government website for the event, this time was specifically chosen for its importance, as many Latin American countries gained their independence in these 30 days. During this time, as the museums and national entities pay tribute to Hispanic Americans, we’re highlighting a few of our favorite Hispanic-owned consumer brands […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 15, 2021
  • ForceBrands
computer at desk

Where to Work When You Can Work Anywhere? Try These Top 20 Cities

Pandemic quarantines may have encouraged remote work but it’s now job seekers leading the charge. While compensation still reigns as the top enticing factor for retaining and attracting talent, a flexible work schedule is a close second. And as a result, remote work is here to stay. According to data from LinkedIn’s Economic Graph team, remote work is on the rise. Remote jobs captured more than 30 percent of all applications to paid U.S. job postings on LinkedIn. Compare this to just 10 percent in August 2020. If we look back to January 2020, before the pandemic, remote job applications […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 10, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer

Should the 40-Hour Work Week Stay Post-Pandemic?

Many questions have been raised about how the world of work and business will look at the end of the pandemic. Immunization rates continue to rise in the United States. With just over 50 percent of the population fully vaccinated, companies are beginning to implement their post-pandemic strategies. For some, like Twitter and Facebook — that recently announced their VR collaborative workspace Horizons — the plan is to remain fully remote. Others like Goldman Sachs and other Wall Street players expect their employees to return to their desks full-time. Beyond that, there are companies like Apple that will be implementing […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 29, 2021
  • ForceBrands

Here’s What You Had to Say About the State of Workplace Mental Health

In what has been one of the most active job markets in recent memory, candidates are on the move. For many, the pandemic has redefined how we think about work. The shift to remote offices has challenged us to make work-life balance a priority and not simply an afterthought. And it’s had a significant impact on our mental health. If we’ve confirmed anything amid the pandemic, it’s that company culture matters, especially as it relates to our mental health. ForceBrands asked our LinkedIn users to weigh in and share their thoughts about their own mental health at work. What defines […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 26, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer

Inside the Great Resignation and What It Means for the Future of the Workforce

As the pandemic has persisted in confounding plans to return employees to on-site work in 2021, another crisis has been brewing in the labor market. Dubbed the “Great Resignation,” growing numbers of employees are leaving their jobs, or at least thinking about it.  According to a recent Microsoft survey, 41 percent of the workforce is considering leaving their employer this year. Many have already done so. A record four million people left their jobs in April 2021, and job openings are at an all-time high. Employees are re-evaluating their career and tenure with their employer for various reasons — dissatisfaction […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 24, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
Facebook on mobile

Will Facebook’s Virtual Reality App Improve WFH?

As it is with almost everything, people looking at the future of their work-life all want different things. Many want to continue to work from home, others want to return to the office full-time, and some still want a little bit of both. Choosing between in-person and remote work is seemingly imminent for companies as vaccination rates rise in most countries. However, the Delta variant has caused companies like Apple to delay their return to the office until the beginning of 2022.  Some companies like Wall Street giants Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan plan to have all employees back in […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 23, 2021
  • ForceBrands

Inside Client Strategy at ForceBrands with Jessica Tully

What does a Client Strategist at ForceBrands do? And what exactly is client strategy? We checked in with ForceBrands’ Jessica Tully, Director of Client Strategy and Operations, to learn more. “A ForceBrands Client Strategist works closely with our consumer brand partners to identify their unique hiring needs,” Tully said. “Once we identify those hiring needs with our partners, then we work with our internal recruitment team to present top talent to our clients, and we’re really there to support our clients every step of the way.” Tully went on to discuss what she finds most rewarding about the work that […]

  • Company Culture
  • August 17, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
atlanta

SKU Atlanta to Launch in Spring 2022

SKU, the nation’s first CPG accelerator, is expanding into Atlanta in Spring 2022 to help serve as a catalyst for the Southeast’s dynamic consumer products industry. An informational cocktail party for potential mentors will be held from 4-7 pm EST on August 17 at City Winery in Atlanta. All interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP here. “SKU is excited to be launching SKU Atlanta in the spring of 2022,” said Kirstin Ross, managing director of SKU. “With our model of building an ecosystem of seasoned experts, we create the network of support for young CPG founders to succeed. Great people and […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 12, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
office

Everything You Should Know About Returning to the Office Amid the Delta Variant

Just as companies began planning for their employees to return to the office, the COVID-19 Delta variant emerged as the newest iteration of the virus and halted the return to work for many. New trends are leaving employees and employers concerned about the changing guidance from health officials.  Here’s What We Know Currently, the Delta variant is the most common COVID-19 strain in the U.S., with more than 80 percent of reported COVID cases caused by this variant. Data shows that the strain may be as much as twice as transmissible as the original Alpha variant that emerged in early […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 8, 2021
  • ForceBrands

Are Signing Bonuses the Key to Attracting Top Talent?

In April, nearly four million Americans left their jobs for a variety of reasons. Whether it was a desire to return to school or change career paths, the workforce shifted. The massive amount of people leaving their jobs has resulted in a job market that is remarkably open, with nearly 9.2 million jobs at the end of May. However, people are leaving and they are not necessarily rushing back to work, begging the question: what will attract and retain workers today?  Recently, LinkedIn editor Andrew Seaman asked whether incentives or perks, like signing bonuses, are effective ways to attract job […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 3, 2021
  • ForceBrands
whiteboard

How to Engage Employees in the Post-COVID Workplace

One of the hardest things to achieve is an engaged workforce — a collection of individuals who are fully committed to the organization and give their best effort at work. And during a crisis, it can be even harder to build engagement, as constant change and uncertainty can create distractions such as fear, anxiety, and insecurity among employees. According to Gallup, the percentage of engaged employees in the U.S. has risen from a low of 26 percent in 2000 to its current level of 36 percent. The remaining employees are either not engaged, or worse, actively disengaged and spreading their […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 23, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
women talking

How to Discuss WFH During the Interview Process

Covid-19 threw the business world for a loop in 2020. It changed everyone’s perspective on what their career could and should be. This introspection was followed by many employees leaving their jobs to search for something new, whether it was relief from burnout or new opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 3.6 million people quit their jobs in May 2021, after the all-time high in April of 4 million. The main takeaway from this seemingly mass exodus is that workers have a better idea of what they want from their jobs, and now they’re seeking it out. For […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 23, 2021
  • ForceBrands
computer at desk

4 Unique Programs to Elevate Your Professional Development Journey

Professional development is a broad topic that spans many industries and seniority levels. From entry-level employees to executives with years of experience, there is always something new to learn. Professional development programs aim to expand knowledge and sharpen skill sets, ultimately helping employees take their careers to the next level. Many companies think that the American workforce lacks the skills they are looking for to build their teams. They hire primarily based on attitude and compatible personality, and look at the long-term potential to teach them what they need to know. It is easier to work with those eager to […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 16, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
tablet

ForceBrands Is Hiring; Bring Your Magic

ForceBrands is hiring multiple roles. From recruiting to business development, we’re actively growing. For nearly two decades, we’ve played a pivotal role in identifying game-changing talent that we place at the most innovative consumer brands across food, beverage, beauty, cannabis, pet, and consumer tech. Think Campari, HIPPEAS, Vital Proteins, dosist, Pet Plate, and so many more. We provide the highest level of Executive Search support for C-suite and board of director placements. Through our contingent, retained, and partially-retained practices, we offer direct hire recruiting for senior manager to vice president-level positions. Our job board marketplace offers a direct connection to […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 12, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer

Companies Are Going “Fully Offline” and Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty About It

Major corporations are going ‘fully offline.’ In response to the mental health toll that COVID-19 placed on workers across industries, companies are encouraging employees to take time off. With a core team running the office, companies like LinkedIn, Mozilla, HubSpot, and Bumble are giving employees an extra week of paid vacation as a “Burnout Break.” The goal is for employees to disconnect from work and recharge. As vacation spots begin to open up, vaccination rates increase, and travel restrictions lift, employees now have the opportunity to relax. This was not the case in 2020, a year that left 56 percent […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 11, 2021
  • ForceBrands
man with briefcase

Returnships: What They Are and Why the CPG Industry Needs Them Now More Than Ever

Through COVID-19 and its domination of 2020, how we look at our health and our work have come into sharp focus. High unemployment rates, people being forced to leave the workforce (women, in particular), and the transition to remote work all became issues we had to contend with collectively. While studies from Pew Research indicate that the U.S. job market is slowly recovering, there’s still a ways to go. For those looking to return to the workforce post-pandemic, returnships (also known as mid-career internships) is a trending buzzword. But you may be surprised to learn it’s actually been around for […]

Fiddle

Automate and Scale Your Brand’s Inventory Operations With Fiddle Co-Founder Ken Ojuka

It’s never been easier to bring a product to market. This perhaps explains why the dynamic CPG industry is booming, averaging 30,000 new product launches each year. And while opportunities abound, competition is fierce. For small- to medium-size brands, there are many growing pains, especially when it comes to operations. Enter Fiddle, an inventory management software that helps brands track, collaborate, and scale by making it easy to organize products, sales, sourcing, and manufacturing. We caught up with the software’s co-founder Ken Ojuka to learn more. ForceBrands: What inspired you to co-create Fiddle? Ken Ojuka: We started when a good […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 31, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at coffee shop

Careers in Food: 4 Brands Hiring Remote Teams

There are a lot of great careers in food. When considering food jobs or long-term careers in food, the option to work remotely is enticing. Employees are happier and more productive in their virtual workplaces. And just as the workplace is evolving, so too, is the food industry. Consumer preferences certainly vary. Factors like cost, ingredients, and brand loyalty all come into play when considering products. Despite this, market share in most food categories is traditionally concentrated within set portfolios. This is because consumers prefer availability over personalization. Today’s consumers buck this trend. Instead, they support smaller, emerging brands that […]

money

PE Advisor Chris Brown On How Today’s High Growth Consumer Brands Are Raising Capital

With ForceBrands‘ core competency on growth planning and hiring strategies, it’s no surprise that funding often comes up in conversations. “I get asked that all the time about funding and how to raise capital,” ForceBrands‘ Senior Client Strategist Dustin Cherry said in a conversation with North Castle Partners‘ Functional Advisor Chris Brown. “I wanted to ask you a few of the questions that we get quite often in hopes that brands are maybe able to avoid pitfalls or at least are prepared informationally as they go to raise capital.” Brown, who specializes in helping to grow consumer-focused brands at $400 […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 11, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
employee at work

How Companies Can Support Employee Mental Health

Employee mental health matters. Even in the best of times, people can struggle with their mental health. Over the course of the last year, we have all been dealing with stressors none of us could have dreamed of even 18 months ago. This is why it is no surprise that more people than ever are struggling with mental health right now. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 84 percent of Americans are dealing with anxiety, sadness, or anger due to a prolonged period of stress. At least some of this prolonged stress for most people comes from […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 7, 2021
  • Tim Crean
meeting

How to Advance Disability Inclusion in the Workplace

Although individuals with disabilities comprise the largest minority group, making up 15 percent of the world’s population, disability inclusion doesn’t always get as much attention as ethnic, gender, and other types of workplace diversity. However, individuals with disabilities are also men, women, white, ethnic minorities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, which means disability can’t be ignored in the workplace diversity conversation. There are many paths to boosting disability inclusion in your organization. Consider the following actions to help build understanding and make disability a key component of your workplace DEI strategy. Recognize the many forms of “disability” The term […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 27, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
hand painted with LGBTQ

Decoding and Promoting the LGBTQ+ Workplace Experience

This article has been written by an HR expert and global operations professional who considers himself as much of a student of people as a leader of them. The purpose of this article is to openly and directly address the often-misunderstood LGBTQ+-related terminology, the people it is designed to identify, and their general present-day workplace experience. Building equity and inclusion requires awareness and understanding. We want people (e.g., managers, leaders, and all others) within the workplace (hopefully your workplace) to feel as though they have a better, more informed, and inclusive-minded grip on the many terms, encounters, and experiences that […]

spindrift

ForceForward: Building the Future of Supply Chain with Unioncrate’s Founder Shastri Mahadeo

ForceForward is a video interview series from ForceBrands that highlights what businesses and teams look like tomorrow.   According to Shastri Mahadeo, the traditional supply chain planning process is outdated. It’s manual and siloed. The lack of real-time data links across departments contribute to low forecast accuracy, low business performance, and untapped opportunity. Enter Unioncrate, an AI-powered Integrated Business Planning (IBP) platform that delivers unmatched forecast accuracy, collaborative visibility, and actionable intelligence — enabling CPG brands to plan and execute agile supply chain strategies at the click of a button. As Founder and CEO, Mahadeo is helping growth brands leverage technology to solve today’s […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 4, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
two men using tablet computer

The New Frontier of People Management: Preparing to Manage “Flex Working” Post-Pandemic Teams

As the business world continues to desperately cut away from the didactic year of 2020, 2021 has not proven to be all that… helpful. The corporate residue of scattered workforces, a lingering global virus, and a slowly rebounding (yet confused) economy reminds us by the minute that we are not close to “being out of the woods.” We are still revamping and reassessing with revised goals and doubling back to ensure that our people remain the priority, all while trying to keep our businesses afloat, or dare we hope, profitable. Since it will require nothing less than a laser-like focus […]

Madeline Haydon

8 AAPI-Owned Consumer Brands to Know and Support

Each May, we take time to celebrate the important role that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) have played in our shared history, and of course in our industry. From innovative nut milks to clean skincare, these AAPI-owned consumer brands are carving unique niches and blazing trails in the ever-booming consumer economy. Here are eight consumer brands to know and support — from beauty and skincare to food, beverages, pets, and CBD products. 1. nutpods Necessity is mother of invention, and that’s exactly how nutpods got its start. While pregnant and on vacation, founder Madeline Haydon couldn’t find […]

man writing on white board

What the Pandemic Has Taught Us As Leaders

The pandemic has affected every organization in its own unique way. Even within the CPG industry, some companies have suffered immensely, others have flourished, and many are somewhere in between. No matter where you and your organization fall on this spectrum, the universal truth is that it has been immensely challenging for everyone. Business leaders in particular have been challenged in a very distinctive way during the pandemic. They’ve been faced with a rapidly evolving situation that no one was prepared for. During the past year, they’ve been tasked with shepherding their business through unprecedented times while dealing with the […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 29, 2021
  • Tim Crean
woman with laptop

How to Retain Women in Today’s Remote Workplace

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women in the workplace is striking. Nearly 2.3 million women have left the workforce since the start of the pandemic and that figure doesn’t just represent the layoffs and furloughs that affected women in the early months of the pandemic. In January 2021 alone, 275,000 women left the workforce (80 percent of the total). According to the National Women’s Law Center, the female labor force participation rate now stands at 57 percent — the lowest it’s been since 1988. There are many reasons women have left their jobs in the last year, including […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 29, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
man walking in office

How HR Has Changed Amid the Pandemic

The pandemic has changed the working world forever. One year in, all the critical components of effective workforce management — attracting and retaining talent, culture development, compliance, and diversity — still matter, but there’s a COVID-related twist. As you hire, manage, and develop talent to help your organization perform, you now need to do it with the added complexity of employee health and safety requirements and in the context of the new remote workplace. Organizations and HR teams have spent a lot of time preparing for the future of work, but in many ways, that time is now. To build […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 15, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
woman at laptop

Career Coach Emily Golden Answers Your ‘Juicy’ Career Questions

You asked; we answered. In a past episode of Start It Sunday, we caught up with author, speaker, and master certified coach Emily Golden to ask her some of your toughest career questions. Now, she’s returning to answer more — and these ones are, as she says, ‘juicy.’ Golden specializes in executive leadership and career coaching and has 17 years of corporate human resources experience; practical experience from more than 2,500 hours of coaching; and a deep understanding of the human mind, spirit, and potential. Watch our discussion with her below:  Join the Start It Sunday movement on LinkedIn.

  • ForceBrands
  • March 14, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman putting laptop in bag

How Leadership Should Prepare to Return to the Office

We are now marking 365 days of conference calls, Zoom meetings, and homemade lunches. For some, it has been a dream come true. No long commutes, no annoying office-mates, and no formal work attire. For others, no in-person feedback, no downtime to chat with coworkers, and no separation between home and office have made the year even more challenging than it was before. No matter where you fall on this spectrum, the reality is that the office will be coming back in some form this year. Vaccination rates are increasing, COVID cases are (slowly) going down, and most organizations are […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 12, 2021
  • Tim Crean
Sarah Hofstetter

Sarah Hofstetter On Her Leadership Style, Women’s Empowerment, and More

Born to Lead is ForceBrands’ original leadership series that highlights industry thought leaders across CPG.  In this episode of Born to Lead, we caught up with Sarah Hofstetter, President and Board Member at e-commerce analytics firm Profitero. Her leadership journey is expansive and one that she says started early — when she became a big sister at two years old. In her professional life, she’s helmed numerous executive roles and has been responsible for the growth of several companies. She spent more than a decade at digital ad agency 360i where her most recent roles were chairwoman and CEO. During […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 7, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at computer working

How to Actively Engage Employees Amid COVID Burnout

It was March of 2020 when the United States shut down due to the growing outbreak of COVID-19. As we enter March of 2021 and get set to mark the one-year anniversary of pandemic life, COVID burnout at work is a real issue. For employees who have been working (and parenting and teaching and socializing) from home for a full year now, pandemic-related burnout at work is something that more employees than ever are dealing with. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), three things characterize workplace burnout. These are “feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 1, 2021
  • Tim Crean
man looking at laptop screen

How to Host Productive Virtual Performance Reviews

The goal of performance reviews is to provide employees with feedback that boosts performance. But for many organizations, performance reviews don’t always hit the mark. In a LeadershipIQ study, only 13 percent of employees and managers said they believed their organization’s performance appraisal system was useful. The Covid pandemic complicated the process of conducting performance reviews, as some managers and employees were (and many still are) physically separated and can’t discuss performance face-to-face. While video feels more personal than a phone call, it’s not the same as an in-person discussion over coffee. Moreover, the shift to remote work and other […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 26, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
woman at laptop

Actionable Ways to Reduce Bias in the Hiring Process

When you’re trying to build a diverse and inclusive work culture, it’s natural to look to the hiring process as a way to make a measurable impact. After all, successfully hiring for diversity can help you change the whole makeup of your workforce. However, bias in the hiring process can be the one thing that stands in your way. When hiring managers and interviewers form opinions about candidates based on unconscious bias, it becomes harder to bring women and underrepresented minorities into your organization. Though bias in the hiring process remains an ongoing challenge for many organizations, there are ways […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 16, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
man at laptop

Leadership Hacks for Rescuing Change-Fatigued Employees

Change is good, right? You must change to grow as it brings new ideas and possibilities to your organization and personal life. In fact, change, whether it be tectonic in size or less conspicuous, is a part of every active business. It is when there is too much of it over a prolonged period that it can result in arduous and weary outcomes for leaders and their team members. Although we begin with COVID-related change-fatigue, simply for some grounding, we do not end there. We will equip you as leaders and busy executives with helpful leadership tactics to get you […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 11, 2021
  • Patrick Proctor
laptop josh and jordan

AF Ventures’ Jordan Gaspar and ForceBrands’ Josh Wand On Leading Amid a Pandemic

How do you lead during a pandemic when there’s no playbook? How do you sustain your team’s culture in a remote environment? What will the future of the workplace look like after COVID-19? These are all questions that AF Ventures‘ Managing Partner Jordan Gaspar and ForceBrands‘ Founder and CEO Josh Wand address in a candid and timely virtual discussion. “It’s rising tides in this industry — people want to see other companies succeed,” Gaspar said of the consumer brand universe coming together amid the pandemic. “I love that this has been a period where when all of the dominos fell and it […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 8, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
capitol building

Democracy in the Workplace: How to Manage Politics and Business

The violent riots at the U.S. Capitol in early January shocked Americans and sent a ripple effect through the business community, prompting reactions from top CEOs and business leaders. The riots were just the latest in a string of concerning developments from the last year — the COVID-19 pandemic, a wildly contentious general election, and a roller-coaster economy. However, while just about everyone was glad to bid good riddance to 2020, 2021 promises to be challenging, too. COVID-19 is still with us, and there remain strong divisions in the country. Without a doubt, the political beliefs and other ideals held […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 1, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
Emily Golden

Emily Golden Answers Your Most Pressing Career Questions

As part of our Start It Sunday series, a professional development campaign designed to motivate you for the week ahead, we caught up with author, speaker, and master certified coach Emily Golden who specializes in executive leadership and career coaching. She has 17 years of corporate human resources experience; practical experience from more than 2,500 hours of coaching; and a deep understanding of the human mind, spirit, and potential. We’re thrilled to have Emily join our series where she will be answering your toughest career questions. Those who submit questions will also be entered to win a free copy of her book “The […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 31, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at office door

How Employee Retention Has Changed Amid COVID

Free lunches at the office. A complimentary gym membership. After-work happy hours at your team’s favorite local pub. These types of perks, offered by companies in the name of corporate culture and employee retention, now seem like relics of a bygone era in 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic that dominated 2020 has fundamentally reshaped the way we live and work. In 2021, as businesses begin to return to full strength, hiring picks back up, and the economy starts to rebound, many businesses will face the challenge of retaining top talent as new opportunities present themselves. Here is how the pandemic has […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 27, 2021
  • Tim Crean
office meeting

Why Delegation Should Always Include Teaching, Coaching, and Mentoring

The practice of active delegation is an essential part of effective management. If you want to compound the impact you have on your team and organization, you will need to learn to effectively delegate duties, responsibilities, and projects that are not essential that you be involved in. Having said that, truly great leaders utilize a commonly overlooked aspect of delegation that few managers fully employ. We refer to it as “engaged delegation” and we will unpack the meaning of this methodology and what it is all about in this article. “You do not build a business, you build people and […]

man at laptop with data

Financial Storytelling: How to Use Data to Tell a Story

It goes without saying that without data, finance cannot function. But too much data can be overwhelming and even detrimental to reporting, which is where the phrase ‘paralysis by analysis’ comes from. We caught up with ForceBrands‘ Chief Financial Officer Karl Schroeder to discuss how we can better use data to tell a more complete story about the health of your business’s financials. Schroeder also explained that you can flip the script — and not simply craft a story from data, but rather start with the story itself. “Rather than starting with this mountain of data and then trying to […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 22, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
office

How to Sustain Diversity Hiring Throughout the Year

Diversity hiring is (and should be) important to companies in the CPG space. Many companies talk about it and many even put plans into action to get the process started. The problem becomes, these programs often fail to produce the long-term results that were intended. Like so many New Year’s resolutions, diversity hiring starts with the best of intentions but often runs out of steam as time progresses without creating the desired result of a more diverse and inclusive organization. The New Year’s resolution comparison is an apt one here. The reason that so many of these resolutions fail is […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 20, 2021
  • Tim Crean
Finger pointing to org chart

These Organizational Design Changes Will Remain Even When COVID Is Gone

Many companies shifted to fully remote workforces in a matter of weeks or days in the wake of stay-at-home orders when the pandemic hit, and many workers are in no rush to return to the workplace. Many CEOs, however, aren’t ready to say goodbye to the office forever. That said, the offices of the future are likely hybrid models that allow for more flexible work, as employees alternate between physically reporting to work and telecommuting, depending on current business needs, personal preference, and office safety requirements. As COVID-19 eventually subsides with the advent of vaccines and companies begin to adjust […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 13, 2021
  • Beth Braverman
man with headphones

Discover the Future of Field Marketing in This Must-Watch Webinar

Field marketing looks a lot different since the outbreak of COVID-19. The shift from in-person experiences to virtual interactions has made it challenging for brands to connect with audiences. Companies have been forced to redirect their field marketing efforts online and get creative on how to maximize their impact digitally. With an end hopefully in sight — with vaccines being distributed globally — many consumer brands are hopeful to return to the field this year and resume field marketing activities. Still, many uncertainties remain. When should brands return to the field? How should they be preparing their teams? What will […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 13, 2021
  • PINATA
man at laptop

How to Look at Finance From a Futuristic Perspective and Why It Matters

Finance is traditionally a backward-looking function in that it relies heavily on the data of the past to help tell the story of the future. In the debut episode of our ‘how to’ educational video series, where we spotlight niche industry experts to share their unique expertise, we caught up with ForceBrands’ Chief Financial Officer Karl Schroeder to discuss why it’s important to think about finance in a forward-leaning way. “By the time the books are closed and the financials are released, the period is over,” Schroeder said. “You’re looking in the rearview mirror, which is no way to drive.” […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 11, 2021
  • Rebecca Fryer
laptop on desk with plant

These 5 Trends Will Shape How We Hire in 2021

At the start of 2020, it was hard to imagine how much the world and the workplace were about to change. Soon businesses everywhere would need to pivot and adjust business practices amid a global pandemic. Less than a year later, social distancing, mask-wearing, and remote work have become commonplace, and organizations now view hiring and managing talent through a new lens. In 2021, job seeker preferences and organizational needs will continue to evolve, requiring a novel approach to competing for best-fit talent. Here are the top trends that will influence your hiring success in 2021: Job seeker preferences for […]

  • ForceBrands
  • January 11, 2021
  • Melanie Haniph
man in times square

Field Marketing Innovation: How These Two Brands Have Adapted Amid the Pandemic

According to Plato, necessity is the mother of invention. To say that the arrival of COVID-19 has forced us all to find innovative ways to manage our lives and work as we know it would be an understatement. Even though 2020 was a bleak year for global economic growth and business, and marketing efforts have had to quickly shift gears to keep up, all hope is not lost. Field marketing efforts, which depend on personal connections to target buyers, have been particularly challenged by the pandemic. However, even though in-person meetings, demos, and events have been temporarily put aside, other […]

drawing on window

24 Big Ideas That Will Shape the World in 2021, According to LinkedIn

From holding employers accountable to their diversity commitments to returning to a more relaxed office, 2021 is shaping up to be a year unlike any other, thanks to the events of 2020. At the end of each year, LinkedIn editors reach out to their community of Influencers, Top Voices, and frequent contributors to share the Big Ideas that they believe will define the year ahead. Read on for a selection of handpicked thoughts and speculations from LinkedIn editors on where they predict we’ll go from here — personally, professionally, and everywhere else in between. The office is calling, and we […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 13, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at laptop

What Candidates Really Think About Video Interviews

In the absence of in-person meetings, most companies are now offering job interviews to be conducted virtually. Video interviews are the new normal in the current job market amid the pandemic. According to hiring managers, there are many benefits of video interviews that include: • More flexibility around scheduling the interview • The ability to assess candidates by observing visual cues • Increased access to talent in other parts of the globe • Option to save video interview recordings for employee training purposes, etc. These are all benefits of video interviewing according to hiring managers and recruiters. So how do […]

  • ForceBrands
  • December 10, 2020
  • Kristin Herman
tiktok on phone

TikTok for Your Amazon and Walmart.com Business

In this episode, Vendo’s Digital Media Buyer and Senior Marketing Strategist explain that TikTok is not just the latest craze amongst Gen-Z consumers, but it is also a refreshing way to showcase the versatility and fun of your brand. They’ll take you through various ways to build your engagement and audience so that you can make the most out of this highly-downloaded platform in order to build brand awareness and boost your sales. 

  • ForceBrands
  • December 3, 2020
  • Vendo
employees wearing masks

6 Skills Employees Will Need in Order to Thrive in the Post-Pandemic Workforce

COVID-19 has altered nearly every aspect of our daily lives. Workplaces are no exception. As more people transition to working remotely, different skill sets are required to navigate the new virtual workforce. But having digital expertise isn’t the only skill employees should consider learning in order to thrive in the post-pandemic workplace. According to Fast Company, data from Gartner revealed the number of skills required for a single job was increasing at a rate of 10 percent per year. Research cites that one-third of skills listed in a 2017 job posting would not be relevant by 2021. As we head […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 12, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman writing chart

6 Reasons Why Forecasting Is Important for Your Business

The needs of the market change at a dramatic rate. This means that your business must also continually change to meet those needs. To make the most beneficial changes, you must make predictions on what’s likely to happen in the future. This is where business forecasting comes into play. Forecasting is the practice of foretelling future events. It may entail compiling historical data like past sales and creating a mathematical model to help predict the future. Here are some reasons why forecasting is crucial for your business. 1. Expanding into new markets Forecasting is absolutely necessary when you are venturing […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 12, 2020
  • Sienna Johns

How to Determine If Growth Hacking or Marketing Is Better for Your Business

Growth hacking and growth marketing are words being thrown around interchangeably when it comes to business growth and development. Growth hackers and marketers typically have similar job descriptions, which makes it difficult to surface the differences between them. However, you must not make the mistake growth hacking and growth marketing for the same concepts. Growth hacking is a set of tactics that are solely focused on increasing the growth of your business. It uses specialized means such as viral marketing and interviewing customers for a blog post to achieve this growth. Growth hackers focus on growing companies. This model is […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 5, 2020
  • Sienna Johns
man holding a box

5 Must-Have Items a Brand Needs Before They Launch on Amazon

Deciding to take your business to the next level and opting to sell your products on Amazon can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. Have no fear, Vendo is here. We help numerous brands grow their brand presence on Amazon by providing guidance and overall support, acting as an extension of their business (excuse the shameless plug). Navigating the wild and unpredictable jungle called Amazon can be difficult, so we’ve provided a list of five must-have items a brand needs to make their business journey across Amazon a bit smoother: 1. A Master SKU Sheet Benjamin Franklin once said, […]

  • ForceBrands
  • November 3, 2020
  • Vendo
working at night

6 Easy Ways to Manage a Team in Different Time Zones

With technology at our fingertips, team members no longer have to work in close proximity. Technology has made it possible to collaborate with individuals spread across different time zones and still have projects completed in a timely manner. One big advantage of having people from different time zones is heightened creativity and innovation. Each person is exposed to different things, so the sources of motivation and inspiration are diverse. You can only imagine what magic this can do when each person brings his or her ideas to the table. However, managing such a team can be challenging. The differences in […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 29, 2020
  • Sienna Johns
woman at laptop

4 Ways Executives Can Improve Diversity Hiring

From better morale to a better bottom line, Forbes Coaches Council reports that there are several major benefits for businesses that increase diversity and inclusion in their organization. Although this initiative is long overdue, organizations may still not always know where to find the resources they need to succeed. As the development of a more diverse candidate pool continues to become an integral priority for CPG companies today, we spoke with Jamal Watson — Assistant Vice President, Media Relations and Communications, at Thurgood Marshall College Fund — as well as Lia Jones, Executive Director, and Elan Glasser, Director of Operations, […]

colorado springs

Worker Confidence Booms in These Overlooked Cities

In 2020 especially, optimism is in high demand and in short supply — except in these cities. According to a LinkedIn Workforce Confidence Index that surveyed more than 33,000 U.S. professionals from July through September, there are 10 metro areas across the country where employee confidence is soaring. So what are the top 10 U.S. cities with the most confident workers? Don’t expect to look toward New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago. Colorado Springs, Colo., Provo, Utah, and Tampa topped the list. These Sunbelt cities have benefited from steady population growth. The research calculated workforce confidence on a scale of […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 22, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
person on tablet

How Did You Find Your Last Job? Survey Reveals This Strategy Is Key

While searching for a new job may look a lot different today than it did at the beginning of 2020, candidates are still relying on traditional strategies to find work. According to a poll from ForceBrands’ LinkedIn page, with an audience of 100,000 professionals, the majority of people (49 percent) found their last job by tapping into their personal network. One of the ways today’s job seekers can tap into their personal network is by combing through LinkedIn connections of those in their inner circle and asking for an introduction. Once you’ve forged a new connection, be proactive. Don’t expect that […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 19, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
on laptops

How to Find Your Career Purpose with Performance Strategist Laura Garnett

As part of our Start It Sunday series, a professional development campaign designed to motivate you for the week ahead, we caught up again with performance strategist, author, and TEDx speaker Laura Garnett. She works with CEOs and executives to help them identify their unique geniuses. In this episode, we uncover what it takes to find your unique purpose. With a special guest, Garnett dives into a conversation that explores how your intrinsic motivation and your genius can come together to drive career-changing success.  Watch more episodes of Start It Sunday here.

  • ForceBrands
  • October 11, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
person wiping down keyboard

5 Tips for Returning to Work Safely

Businesses nationwide have been struggling to find the best way to stay active amid the global pandemic. Remote work has proven to be an essential cog in the productivity wheel with many companies switching to full-time, off-site workforces. With states starting to lift quarantine restrictions, many of us are returning to our offices. Below, we’re sharing a few tips we think will help all make the transition back to the office as safe as possible. By keeping these in mind, you should find yourself more mindful of your own health as well as the steps you can take to ensure […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 7, 2020
  • Sandy Wheeler
social media

How to Drive Traffic to Amazon Using Social Media Advertising

Did you know that Amazon absolutely loves external traffic? So much that it ranks sales from external traffic ads three times higher than their own native ad platform. Thus, it is very important that you use external advertising strategies to drive traffic to Amazon. If your external advertising strategy is well planned and executed, you can achieve a big increase in sales and positive reviews, brand recognition outside of Amazon (which eventually will help your website sales as well), boost your keyword ranking on Amazon, and even get the Best Seller badge. There are so many social media platforms out […]

  • ForceBrands
  • October 2, 2020
  • Vendo
zoom

How Socially Distant Work Events Can Boost Employee Morale

The pandemic has impacted every sector of the global economy. Businesses are quickly adapting their processes in line with government guidelines and health advice, and are focusing on keeping employees and clients safe. Most notably, an increasing number of employees are now working from home. However, even the most eager remote workers are suffering during this time. Employees are missing out on the crucial aspect of workplace socialization. It may seem like an impossible activity during COVID-19, but employers have adapted their enterprises to allow work social events to continue. All of these activities can be enjoyed from the safety […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 21, 2020
  • Will Jacobs
Meli's Monster Cookies

SKU Kicks Off First Track of DFW Cohort with Six Companies

SKU, the nation’s first accelerator for consumer packaged goods, kicked off its first Dallas-Fort Worth track, known as SKU DFW. Five of the innovative startups selected for the program, representing a range of categories from gluten-free cookie dough to sustainable pet products, are: All Y’alls Foods, Highwave, Meli’s Monster Cookies, mmmpanadas, and Re:THINK Ice Cream. Additionally, the 16-year-old founder of a sixth company, Sienna Sauce, who developed her product at the age of 8, will audit the SKU DFW program. The companies were selected based on the innovation of their product, their traction in the market, and the strength and […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 15, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
walmart shopping carts

What is the Future of the World’s Largest Retailer?

Doug McMillon, CEO of Walmart Inc., made the following statement at the annual shareholders meeting in June 2019: “What’s the one thing busy families can’t buy at Walmart? Time….Or is it?” This quote is the perfect summation of Walmart’s current focus and provides insight into how Walmart believes they will continue to win with consumers in the future. Walmart is stressing consumer convenience and has invested heavily into maximizing its biggest competitive advantage, their stores. Leveraging 4,500 Stores to Capture Online Consumers with Pickup Walmart first proposed its version of click and collect called “Walmart Online Grocery Pickup (OGP)” in […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 10, 2020
  • Vendo
Haus

ForceForward: DTC Guru Nik Sharma On Building the E-Commerce Brands of Tomorrow

ForceForward is a video interview series from ForceBrands that highlights what businesses and teams look like tomorrow.   Just Google search Nik Sharma and you’ll find a host of articles describing him as ‘the DTC guy.’ It’s a fitting title, too, considering he’s long been a digital guru. At the age of 15, he was helping to craft the social strategies for celebrities like MAGIC! and Pitbutt. Now, he’s helming Sharma Brands as CEO where he’s helping to build some of today’s most exciting high growth e-commerce brands. We caught up with the digital marketing maven to learn more about his […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 6, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
Hayday

ForceForward: The Team Behind PINATA Launches Employee Wellness Software Hayday

Timing is everything. When the COVID-19 crisis hit in mid-March, no one could have predicted the sheer disruption of their daily lives caused by the virus. While companies adopted remote workplaces — many reducing their overall workforces — and adjusted their business models, the timing presented a unique opportunity for the team behind PINATA to leverage their enterprise software in the earliest stages of the pandemic for a greater cause: health and wellness. PINATA, designed to revolutionize field marketing, is a flexible, data-driven platform where brands, agencies, and freelance talent collaborate to create elevated consumer experiences. In the absence of in-person events and […]

  • ForceBrands
  • September 1, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
shopping cart

Watch Highlights From Food and Beverage Post-COVID Reality Panel

What’s ahead for the food and beverage industry after COVID-19? What impact will the global pandemic have on the long-term health of the industry? We recently brought together thought leaders for a virtual networking and panel event to explore the topic “Post-COVID Reality: Changes Expected in the Food and Beverage Industry and What the Data is Forecasting” in more detail. The session began with an analysis of current food and beverage industry data. The panel discussion ran the gamut of topics affecting the industry, from challenges presented by the pandemic, such as delays and implementing safety procedures, to insight on […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 12, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman at desk

Why Finding Your ‘Zone of Genius’ Will Help You Achieve Career Success

As part of our Start It Sunday series, a professional development campaign designed to motivate you for the week ahead, we caught up again with performance strategist and TEDx speaker Laura Garnett. Author of “The Genius Habit,” Garnett works with CEOs and executives to help them identify their unique geniuses. In past episodes of Start It Sunday, we’ve answered some of your toughest career questions. And now, we’re offering a unique opportunity to help one lucky professional find their ‘zone of genius.’ “It’s really just another way of saying be who you are,” Garnett explains about the zone of genius. […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 9, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
office

3 Ways Hayday Can Help You Get Back to Work Safely

Feeling anxious about returning to the office? You’re not alone. According to recent research from The Wellbeing Lab and George Mason University’s Center for the Advancement of Wellbeing, nearly 80 percent of U.S. workers aren’t feeling fully positive about going back to the office amid the ongoing global pandemic. But it’s not just employees feeling unsure about returning to their workspaces, employers are also feeling hesitant to reopen offices without proper safety protocols in place. When safety becomes a concern, it’s necessary to take proper precautions. To help bring people back to work safely, ForceBrands recommends Hayday, an easy solution […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 7, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
amazon

Creative Optimization for Amazon Growth

We’ve always been told, never judge a book by its cover, and we’ve also been told that first impressions matter. Truth be told, as humans, we are all very visual beings. So why would it be any different when it comes to all things visual on e-commerce, and more specifically, on Amazon? These days, brands are creating an experience online that is not only based on what matters to the consumer, but design that converts. As experts in e-commerce, we understand that design also depends on how we can connect emotionally to the consumer and enhance their online shopping experience […]

  • ForceBrands
  • August 3, 2020
  • Vendo
sticky notes

Laura Garnett Answers Your Most Challenging Career Questions

As part of our Start It Sunday series, a professional development campaign designed to motivate you for the week ahead, we caught up again with performance strategist and TedX speaker Laura Garnett. Author of “The Genius Habit,” Garnett works with CEOs and executives to help them identify their unique geniuses. And now, we’re checking in with you: What are some of your greatest professional challenges? What obstacles are you encountering in your own career that are preventing you from achieving future success? From staying motivated and engaged as an entrepreneur to finding your creative genius, Garnett answers some of your […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 26, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
The Genius Habit

How to Find Your Inner Genius with Performance Strategist Laura Garnett

Finding a fulfilling career is challenging. Doing so in a global health crisis can seem like an impossible feat. As part of our Start It Sunday series, a professional development campaign designed to motivate you for the week ahead, we caught up with performance strategist and TedX speaker Laura Garnett. Author of “The Genius Habit,” Garnett works with CEOs and executives to help them identify their unique geniuses. “The zone of genius is really comprised of two things: your genius and your purpose,” Garnett explains. “These two things are rooted in my research on the science of performance. And what […]

  • ForceBrands
  • July 12, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at computer

How to Write Non-Bias Job Descriptions — And Why It Matters

Statistics prove that diverse and inclusive workforces provide tremendous value. As top priorities among employers, especially now, companies are looking for inventive ways to attract talent. Since job descriptions are typically the first means of contact employers have with candidates, it’s paramount that they are written in a non-bias way that reflects the company’s mission, needs, and values. “First and foremost, if you’re even thinking about this, it’s obviously a good time,” says Britteny Soto, CTRM, Manager, Talent Acquisition – Retail at ‎Green Thumb Industries (GTI). “A lot of companies don’t, but it’s actually something that we talk a lot […]

Woman Working on Laptop

Inside the Natural Products Industry’s Need for Diversity and Inclusion and the Collective Powering Change

Inclusive teams build more powerful brands. And despite this fundamental fact, many consumer brands have a lot of work ahead. Dedicated to raising awareness and driving real change in the natural products industry, the OSC² J.E.D.I. Collaborative is committed to fostering justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion within the industry. “As an industry of innovators and leaders in our food and agricultural systems, we have a vital business challenge facing us — a lack of diversity of human ingenuity, perspective, and talent,” the newly launched J.E.D.I Collaborative told Natural Products Insider. “Unless we work to overcome it, we will not be able to forge […]

  • ForceBrands
  • June 10, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
ideas

5 Stats That Prove the Value of a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce

When it comes to talent management, diversity and inclusion remain top priorities among many employers. According to new data from the leading B2B ratings and review firm Clutch, more than three-quarters of HR professionals (79 percent) believe their company is diverse. As many employers weather the COVID-19 pandemic, 57 percent of employees say their company has become more diverse in the past year. Perception though is not always reality. Some experts tout these numbers may be overestimated and more of a reflection on an overall more diverse American workforce and an increase in companies employing international workers than it is […]

  • ForceBrands
  • June 2, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
Born to Lead Webinar

Bev Alc Leaders Address Leading Through COVID-19 in ‘Born to Lead’ Virtual Discussion

ForceBrands brought together some of the beverage alcohol industry’s top leaders for a live virtual discussion on May 27. Part of a new thought leadership series, Born to Lead, powered by ForceBrands and PINATA, panelists addressed how they’re “Addressing Real Challenges and Driving Positive Change Through Leadership in Today’s Environment.” Moderated by Josh Wand, Founder and CEO of ForceBrands and PINATA, panelists included Jonathan Yusen, President & Managing Director, Americas, William Grant & Sons Inc.; Jeff Popkin, President & CEO, Mast-Jägermeister U.S.; Mike Keyes, President & CEO, Proximo Spirits, Inc.; Deborah Brenner, Founder & CEO, Women of the Vine & Spirits; […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 29, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer

Join ForceBrands’ ‘Born to Lead’ Webinar Featuring Mast-Jägermeister, Proximo, Cincoro, and More

ForceBrands will host a live thought leadership webinar with some of the beverage alcohol industry’s top leaders on May 27 at 1 pm EST. Part of ForceBrands’ new leadership series, Born to Lead, panelists will discuss how they’re “Addressing Real Challenges and Driving Positive Change Through Leadership in Today’s Environment.” Gathering together some of the best and brightest in the industry to discuss how they’re leading during COVID-19, the panel will be hosted by ForceBrands’ Founder and CEO Josh Wand. Discover how top leaders from Mast-Jägermeister, Proximo Spirits, Cincoro, and more are inspiring others to lead with purpose to help move […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 21, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer

CPG Accelerator Pivots to Online Showcase in Response to COVID-19

SKU’s seven CPG startups will present virtual pitches to a national audience of CPG investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. For the startups going through SKU’s consumer products accelerator, Showcase Day represents the culmination of the rigorous 14-week program. During the celebratory event, the founders traditionally present their pitches to a room full of hundreds of investors, CPG executives, and entrepreneurs. This year, as COVID-19 devastated the world, SKU pivoted midway through the program to a virtual format — moving everything from the classes to the mentor meetings online. In April, SKU hosted a virtual First Look Forum — a “dress […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 19, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
women working from home

5 Expert Tips for Managing Stress in Today’s Remote Workplace

As many of us find ourselves working from home, it may feel like our work and home worlds are colliding. If you had been previously dreaming about working from home while you were in the office, you might be finding the reality is much more complicated than the fantasy. While many people are reporting increased productivity at home, they are also finding the experience challenging and stressful. If you are trying to manage the merging of work and home, here are a few tips for reducing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance: Create boundaries Develop a schedule that makes […]

ForceForward

ForceBrands’ ForceForward Series Highlights What Business Looks Like Tomorrow

ForceForward is a video interview series that highlights some of the positive momentum in the consumer brand universe. Each episode features a conversation with one of the industry’s top thought leaders and offers a glimpse into what business looks like tomorrow. ForceForward speaks to ambitious entrepreneurs, executive leaders, and transformational brand builders who are looking for innovative ways to pivot and evolve and create opportunities amid challenges. New episodes of the forward-leaning series launch across ForceBrands’ channels on Tuesdays. Explore highlights from past episodes: JOSH WAND | CEO + Founder, ForceBrands and PINATA As a leader of two high growth companies, ForceBrands […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 11, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
BeyondSKU

NYC CPG Accelerator BeyondSKU Accepting Applications for Companies and Mentors

In partnership with Austin, Texas-based CPG accelerator SKU and New York City’s top natural products consulting agency, BeyondBrands, BeyondSKU is a unique mentorship and capital program for entrepreneurs. BeyondSKU brings together experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and advisors to mentor early stage CPG companies with a focus on better-for-you products and mission-based business values. “As a serial natural products entrepreneur, I look back on my early days as a scrappy startup and if communities of mentorship and value-added capital were available back then to guide me, I could have made far less mistakes. Along with our partners at SKU, we see the […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 11, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at laptop working

Learning and Working Remotely in Crisis: What Are Professionals Looking For?

According to a recent survey from professional training search engine findcourses.com, the mass-shift to remote work and remote training has not dampened learners’ desire for professional training. Instead, how learners need work and training to be delivered has changed. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop and unfold around the world, employees across industries and sectors are discovering new ways to make the most of their new work environments: home offices. More specifically, what are learners looking for from training providers, and how can they ameliorate their remote working experience? Findcourses.com’s ongoing learner survey has taken initial stock of the […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 5, 2020
  • Max Maccarone
FounderMade Power Hour

Highlights From FounderMade’s Power Hour with Recess, OATLY, Milk Makeup, and More

ForceBrands co-hosted a Power Hour with FounderMade on Wednesday afternoon to discuss redesigning brands of the future. The webinar brought together trailblazing thought leaders across food, beverage, beauty, wellness, and cannabis. Josh Wand, Founder and CEO of ForceBrands, led the panel that included Benjamin Witte, Founder and CEO of Recess; Mike Messersmith, General Manager of OATLY; Georgie Greville, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Milk Makeup; Amanda Baldwin, President of Supergoop!; John Haugen, Managing Director and Founder of 301 INC; and Gunner Winston, CEO of dosist. Each panelist shared unique insights and provided actionable advice about how they’re navigating the new […]

  • ForceBrands
  • May 1, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
couple in brooklyn

3 Inspiring Initiatives Supporting the Consumer Brand Universe

With a surge in consumer demand for products across categories, many prospering CPG companies are reinvesting their profits in COVID-19 relief efforts. Vita Coco donated $1 million to Feeding America and No Kid Hungry. Clif Bar & Company donated 3 million CLIF Bars to healthcare professionals around the world. Just Salad announced its partnership with Mount Sinai to deliver 10,000 meals each week to hospital workers in New York City. RISE Brewing Co. is donating one can of its cold brew coffee for every can purchased to local health heroes. IWON organics, a fast-growing, better-for-you snack company, has donated more […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 23, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
notebook newsletter

19 Founders and CEOs Share Leadership Insights During COVID-19

In times of crisis, leadership matters more than ever. It’s during challenging times that people look to higher authorities for stability, reassurance, and guidance. Whether it’s a CEO of a company or an official within government, leaders across the world are being tested during COVID-19. Forbes recently shared an article highlighting how some leaders across various companies are responding to the global pandemic. Read on for some insights. 1. David Heath, Founder, Bombas “We originally founded Bombas to help support those experiencing homelessness by providing needed items and advocating for them. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain committed to helping […]

  • Career Advice
  • April 17, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
whole foods

How ‘Founders Give’ Creator Cole Riley Is Rallying Food and Beverage Brands for a Cause

In early March, Cole Riley launched Founders Market, a food discovery network aimed at sharing the stories of the founders behind some of the most exciting food brands. It wasn’t long before his business pivoted. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, he paused content operations to focus on a new initiative designed to support relief efforts in New York City, one of the pandemic’s hardest hit areas. We caught up with him to learn more about Founders Give, a new initiative that’s rallying the food and beverage community to come together to support the doctors and healthcare workers on the frontlines of COVID-19. […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 12, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
ForceBrands Office

ForceForward: Redesigning Teams with ForceBrands’ Founder and CEO Josh Wand

ForceForward is a video interview series from ForceBrands that highlights what businesses and teams look like tomorrow.   In the debut episode of ForceForward, a new interview series highlighting what businesses and teams look like tomorrow, we caught up with ForceBrands’ Founder and CEO, Josh Wand ⁠— or as we like to call him, Motivator in Chief. As a leader of two high growth companies, ForceBrands and PINATA, Josh shares how he approaches leadership in crisis, how organizations are redesigning, and how the face of hiring as we know it is changing. Check out some more highlights below: On being a […]

  • ForceBrands
  • April 6, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
Zoom

How to Hire Without In-Person Meetings, From Those Who Have Done It for Years

ForceBrands recently ran a piece about virtual hiring, which featured some great tips on how to make remote interviews as effective as in-person meetings, but that’s only one challenge companies have had to face in recent weeks. Since the emergence of Coronavirus (COVID-19), the entire hiring process has changed in several ways. Fortunately, many organizations are still filling positions during the crisis. While some companies already had virtual systems in place, others are starting from scratch. One aspect we found that’s evident across the board is that leaders are rising to the challenge and making the best of these circumstances […]

person using computer

How to Onboard Employees, Virtually

The bad news: Coronavirus continues to impact us in ways we never imagined. The good news: Companies are still hiring, giving us hope for the future — something we’re happy to report on and share with you. Because the circumstances of onboarding new employees have to change to accommodate the current climate, employers need insights on how to put plans into action so that the virtual onboarding process is more seamless. We reached out to a few hiring leaders who shared ways they’re leveraging today’s challenges to create opportunities for tomorrow. Communication is key “The biggest challenge when it comes […]

hand sanitizer

5 Consumer Goods Companies That Have Pivoted in a Positive Direction

The past few weeks have presented numerous challenges to businesses across CPG. As companies learn to navigate a new world amid a global pandemic, they’ve had to shift their business strategies and priorities. For some, this means pivoting their products and services to better serve the changing needs and lifestyles of their consumers. For others, it means giving back. Read on as we highlight some consumer goods companies — big and small — that continue to make a positive change in their respective sectors. 1. SnackNation Like the majority of the workforce that has since turned to remote workspaces, healthy […]

  • Company Culture
  • March 26, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
man at computer

How to Build and Optimize E-Commerce Teams in Today’s Climate

There’s a lot of speculation among digital marketing experts that coronavirus, coupled with social distancing and self-quarantining, will help boost e-commerce sales. If we examine its short-term influence over the course of these past few weeks, e-commerce has been one of the key channels for driving economic growth. While the long-term projections could yield complications with supply chain and demand, the underlying narrative of e-commerce is that it’s never been more important. As companies strengthen their online presence and move toward a digital-first strategy, there’s been a surge in e-commerce hiring, especially among online retail giants like Amazon. “E-commerce roles […]

  • Career Advice
  • March 26, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
woman working from home

Working 9 to 5? How to Set Work Hours in a Remote Workplace

Remote work is the new norm. Commutes have been reduced and working hours have been altered as more workers set up makeshift workspaces away from their offices. Many employers around the world have been forced to adapt to working virtually if they want their business to continue to operate. While it may be challenging to conduct business as usual away from the office, employers should set expectations with their employees to better help them adjust to remote work to avoid employee burnout. Employees aren’t just working from home — many are working alongside spouses, children, and distractions that otherwise wouldn’t […]

working on bed

ForceBrands’ Team Members Weigh in On How to Make Working Remotely Work

Millions of people around the world have turned to working remotely since the novel coronavirus outbreak. Studies have proven how working outside the office boosts productivity and can make employees happier in their jobs and less likely to leave them. But what happens when working remotely is no longer by choice and is for prolonged periods of time? What happens when remote working stops working? Experts who previously weighed in on the benefits of remote work are now not so sure about them in today’s climate. According to a Recode interview with Stanford University professor Nicholas Bloom, who conducted a two-year study […]

  • Career Advice
  • March 22, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
women at a table

‘Women on Boards’ Is Building Bridges — Here’s How and Why It Matters

As part of our ongoing Female Forces series to celebrate Women’s History Month (March), we’re delving deeper into the subject of gender equity in the boardroom with an inside look at the Women on Boards (WOB), a project ForceBrands is proud to help support. This non-profit initiative seeks to empower women business leaders and to increase gender diversity and inclusion on consumer private company boards, with the recognition that doing so directly improves business results. The recent launch revealed details on a partnership between leading private equity firms — VMG Partners (a co-founder of the WOB project), L Catterton, Swander […]

man sitting by laptop

3 Ways to Make Virtual Interviews As Effective As In-Person Meetings

The concept of working remotely has been around for the past decade. The ability to have the most talented workers across time zones and locations has drawn companies to expand their horizons. With the proven success of a remote workforce, more corporations have begun to visit this idea of the virtual workplace. In these unprecedented times, virtual hiring has become an important step in helping businesses stay ahead of the changes. COVID-19, or coronavirus, presents many challenges. But with challenges, come opportunities. Many corporations who have held their stance on having their teams remain in-office have now realized the advantages […]

team presenting

What Employers Get Wrong About Professional Development

One-size-fits-all — a description that applies to rain ponchos, winter hats, and headphones. But professional development? There’s no singular way to properly classify professional development as the subject is complex and varies by team, company, and industry. Developing a professional development plan that best benefits your employees requires an awareness of your organization and its unique needs. So where do employers get it wrong? Read on to explore how some companies fail when it comes to approaching these plans that are critical to the long-term success of the organization. Providing a Customized Approach to Management According to Harvard Business Review, […]

board meeting

Gender Equity in the Boardroom Is No Longer an Initiative; It’s a Necessity

As part of our ongoing Female Forces series to celebrate Women’s History Month (March), we’re taking a look at how the inclusion of women on company boards positively impacts the bottom line of CPG businesses. While historically company boards have been male-dominated, female leadership has been proven to be good for business. Companies with mixed boards are reported to be more likely to avoid insolvency and increase profits, while gender diversity on both boards and on management teams outperform on profitability and provide higher value creation through innovation and productivity. Increasingly, companies and even U.S. states are also acknowledging the […]

Expo East 2019

New Hope Network Postpones Natural Products Expo West 2020

Update: On March 13, New Hope announced it will not reschedule Natural Products Expo West 2020. Read the statement here. Organizers of the world’s largest industry trade show and business conference for natural, organic, and health products announced on Tuesday that it would postpone the California-based event due to the widespread COVID-19 (coronavirus) that’s making global headlines. “Since the international situation on COVID-19 started in late January, New Hope, and our sister companies around the world have been guided by local government and health authority advice, as well the views of the communities we serve, in making decisions about our […]

  • ForceBrands
  • March 3, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
person reading magazine

How to Take Charge of Your Professional Development in 2020

The workplace is a revolving door of ideas on how to attract, retain, and engage employees to help drive the success of a business. In today’s modern workforce that’s influenced by technology (both beneficial and distracting), the idea of professional development has continued to morph into activities that take the employee out of their “work zone” and put them in situations that foster focus and creativity. In a new decade, finding innovative ways to keep employees engaged in their workflow and the success of the team has proven to be possible through valiant efforts on all parts. Through professional development […]

data code

It’s Time for a Data Revolution

We find ourselves in a time of extreme data polarization unlike any time in history — a time when only the largest CPG brands have access to the data that enables them to understand their consumer. How can we expect our small innovators to thrive when they don’t have any visibility into the murky world of sell-through, consumer perception, and trade management? This is simply an injustice I can’t abide by. Data for all is a CPG right. We see the rhetoric out there — that industry growth is riding on the backs of startups that have the ability to […]

Super Coffee

All About ForceBrands’ Culture Exposure Campaign

Ready to show us what you’re working with? Ready to get #EXPOsed? The first step is to follow @forcebrands on Instagram. ForceBrands, the consumer product industry’s leading recruiting firm, wants to feature you and your brand during Natural Products Expo West, the world’s largest industry trade show for natural, organic, and healthy products. ForceBrands is proud to present this special culture campaign at Natural Products Expo West with the goal of getting as many participating companies to share their team’s unique culture. Here’s how brands can get involved: 1. Take a photo that captures your team’s unique culture and post it to […]

  • Company Culture
  • February 27, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
man using laptop

Should There Be Formal Workplace Policies That Allow Employees to Unplug?

In today’s modern workplace, work is almost always on the mind. For many professionals, the line between their professional and their personal lives is blurred. Work emails are accessible on cell phones, giving employers, colleagues, and clients the ability to connect outside of the traditional 9-to-5 working hours. But is this really okay? Many employers seek to attract future candidates by emphasizing their company’s strong work-life balance. But does that balance include a policy of unplugging outside of work hours? According to Inc.com, “56 percent of senior executives said they check work-related communications ‘almost constantly’ when they’re not in the […]

shopping mall

This Company Will Hire You if You Answer Three Questions

Imagine a hiring process void of interviews and background checks. What if you could simply answer a few questions and get the job? That’s the concept The Body Shop has been piloting with its ‘open hiring’ strategy, and it’s working. The beauty retailer began experimenting with this hiring technique at the end of 2019. The company posts a job and those who apply (by answering three yes-or-no questions) and meet the most basic requirements, are eligible to land the job on a first-come, first-served basis. The questions are: Are you authorized to work in the U.S.? Can you stand for […]

  • ForceBrands
  • February 16, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
HeartRise Team Building Workshop

How the HeartRise Movement Is Building Connective Work Cultures

Your people are your superpower. Research shows that when everyone thrives, the organization thrives. In this digital world where surface connections run supreme at our fingertips, real, heartfelt connection and meaningful relationships are few and far between. We seem to have forgotten that people best respond to who we are and how we show up. Call it old school, but it’s how we make an impression. And when you show you care, you can create deeper connections that generate the real success and impact we are all destined to achieve. In this age of information overload, emotional intelligence and the […]

people on escalator

Should You Walk Out of a Job Interview?

Those of us who have spent any length of time in the workforce are certain to have at least one interview experience that didn’t go quite as planned. Maybe it’s a hiring manager who showed up late to the interview without any warning or apology, or a hostile interviewer who appeared to want nothing to do with the conversation. One unfortunate applicant divulged their worst experience to Slate: they had applied for a director-level role in which they had met all the qualifications outlined in the job description only to find out that there was another candidate in the same […]

  • Career Advice
  • January 25, 2020
  • Madison Troyer
Inspira Marketing Group

Inspira Marketing Group’s Mission to Put People, Passion, and Purpose at the Center of Innovation

When you start a company at the beginning of a recession, it has to be pretty incredible to survive. Inspira Marketing Group, an experiential marketing agency headquartered in Norwalk, Conn., has done more than that — it’s thrived. When Jeff Snyder founded Inspira in 2008, he set out to create a different type of agency — one built on relationships and doing the right thing, where people came before profits, and where the team was passionate about the work they were doing (and had fun doing it!). He wanted to build a company committed to optimism, excellence, and where innovation […]

  • Company Culture
  • January 22, 2020
  • Rebecca Fryer
Cincinnati

Jobs Are Booming in These 12 US Cities

There are certain cities that are synonymous with major job markets. For example, the tech industry is booming in San Francisco, Chicago has been dubbed the “Silicon Valley” of food and beverage, and the political pulse of the nation can best be felt in Washington D.C. However, these aren’t the only cities that are job magnets for specific industries. According to a recent LinkedIn article titled “The Job Magnets No One Expected,” there are 12 cities around the U.S. poised to become hubs for their respective industries over the next year. These small to mid-size cities may not have the […]

  • Career Advice
  • January 19, 2020
  • Madison Troyer
two hands drawing on white board

4 Things Job Seekers Need to Know About ‘Job Auditions’

As if the interview process wasn’t stressful enough, some employers have added an additional hurdle prospective candidates must clear in order to receive an offer: the job audition. In the past several years, these “tests” have become increasingly popular across several fields. Designed to see how a candidate will actually perform in the role, job auditions vet an individual’s skills, strengths, and traits to ensure they can satisfactorily complete the work that will be required of them and that they’ll be a good fit for the company’s culture. Fans of the job audition argue that these tests — which can […]

  • Career Advice
  • January 7, 2020
  • Madison Troyer
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