The CEO of Bogg Bag considers this trait essential for employees and can detect it quickly.

Kim Vaccarella values fun-loving employees above all else, as seen in the creation of the viral Bogg Bag.

The CEO of Bogg Bag, a company that produces waterproof beach totes and accessories, is Vaccarella. Since its launch in 2008, the business has sold over 3 million bags and is projected to generate $100 million in revenue this year, as she reveals to CNBC Make It.

Vacarella worked as a controller for a real estate lending firm for over 20 years while juggling two or more jobs to bring in extra income, including a stint as a birthday party clown.

Vacarella says that she found true satisfaction at work only after launching Bogg Bag. She attributes her success to her 50 employees, who often engage in lighthearted conversations and humor while working. They also contribute to the brand's social media presence by participating in TikTok trends.

Vaccarella believes that collaboration among staff members is crucial in building camaraderie and enhancing the office culture. She emphasizes that if an individual does not fit into this culture, it is a warning sign for her. She can quickly determine if someone has the right attitude within a few minutes of meeting them. Vaccarella wants her employees to maintain a positive outlook while working in the office.

'We're going to work, but we're going to have fun'

Vaccarella is more likely to be drawn to candidates who exhibit a lively and positive attitude during job interviews, as opposed to those who appear to be simply trying to get through the interview.

"Discussing their past work, family, and work environment can lead to engaging conversation and reveal whether the candidate prioritizes family or independence in their work," she remarks. "Let's get to work, but let's do it with enjoyment!"

A 2023 study from Taiwan's National Central University found that employees with a positive mindset experienced positive impacts in creativity, relationships, productivity, and psychological wellness. The study surveyed 508 workers.

Other CEOs and business leaders, including Barbara Corcoran, believe that upbeat bosses who enjoy themselves often get the most out of their workers.

"I prioritize fun over anything," she stated in a TikTok video posted in June. "In sales, you enjoy working with people, but you don't truly love them because they're competing for your market. This results in friend-enemies. I believe that having fun with your colleagues is a powerful equalizer."

She stated that when individuals laugh collectively, they generate fresh concepts due to relaxation.

It is important to differentiate between having a positive mindset and toxic positivity, which involves feeling pressured to always present an optimistic outlook, even when it is not appropriate. In the workplace, this can lead to the suppression or invalidation of negative emotions, which can negatively impact job performance.

Pretending to be enthusiastic and cheerful all the time can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy over time, research shows.

Vacarella seeks employees who can create a productive, enjoyable, and engaged company culture while being transparent about any issues.

According to a 2023 Harvard Business Review article by leadership expert Dr. Timothy Clark, when workers feel comfortable speaking up about issues that affect them or struggle to collaborate with colleagues, it can enable managers to offer support and resolve the problem before it worsens.

Vacarella's priority is to resolve issues promptly so she can focus on her company's culture, which she defines as "Carry on the fun."

Barbara Corcoran is a panelist on "Shark Tank," which CNBC owns the exclusive off-network cable rights to.

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