Well apart from time to gather with family and friends the Silly Season is a great time to look to the future. The news coming through is that there will be considerable layoffs this coming year. With that in mind it is going to be important for businessess to keep the lines of communication open with their staff: not just Upper and Middle Management, but those on the "ground". Anxiety fuels depression and an anxious and depressed staff member is not going to contribute to the productivity of the business.

With possible staff cuts necessary it is going to be important to motivate staff and lift the performance bar. How can we do this successfully?

• Communicate your vision for the coming year.
• Hold regular meetings with your staff.
• Give feedback: both positive and negative, so staff can contribute to the future of the business and their career potential.