This year, we all learned a lot about ourselves. Employers got to see people at their best, showing astonishing reserves of courage, commitment, and resilience. People got to see how quickly their employers could innovate and respond to an unprecedented crisis.

From the first cry we make as an infant to the meeting you had with your team yesterday, the ability to communicate effectively directly impacts outcomes. Your success in navigating relationships with others and conveying salient points in business communications directly impact results, both for you personally and for your business. Those interpersonal communication skills are the true key to success.

In a normal year, your employees’ holiday schedule wouldn’t be a big concern. You might politely ask where they’re going, but it’s not business-critical for you to discuss their travel plans.

Acknowledging and appreciating employees is essential for a more positive, productive, and profitable organization. Over the years, there has been more and more evidence and data that links employee appreciation with customer satisfaction, and organizational growth.

The holidays are upon us. They are a time of joy and family gatherings. They are a time when we take stock of our blessings, and we prepare to begin a new journey into the new year.

With Veteran's Day still fresh in mind, now is the perfect time to think about how we, as employers, can help the brave men and women who serve this country.