While social media is just a platform, it is a platform that hinders communication. Social media lacks the cues and feedback that help make in-person communication robust and interesting. Certainly there is a place for social media, and it is our responsibility as readers to critically consider the information we are reading.

The business review goes by many names. The Monthly Business Review (MBR), Quarterly Business Review (QBR), and the Executive Business Review (EBR) are the most common. While there are many names and they happen at different frequencies, they all serve the same purpose: demonstrating the value you provide your customer. The business review is a critical checkpoint in the customer lifecycle and serves five major purposes.

Goal reviews are a great way to keep yourself on track to achieve your objectives. Most people are familiar with goal setting, especially around the New Year. We set goals and commit to achieving them. Sadly, just 8% of us actually follow through on our New Year's resolutions, and regular goal achievement throughout the year is not much better. Goal reviews are quick and easy way stay focused on what you really want.

Executive encounters are a great opportunity to demonstrate your skills. Gaining access to executives, especially the C-Suite, can be challenging. Their time is limited and they have a lot of demands on it. As an aspiring leader, there are ways to get more face time with executives and for you to be ready when the opportunities arises. Taking a few simple steps ahead of time will prepare you for when you chances comes.

One of the best ways to improve any business interaction is to assume positive intent, that is, give people the benefit of the doubt. Assuming positive intent makes it possible to have a productive conversation without defensiveness shutting it down. What's more, assuming positive intent demonstrates your leadership qualities. You show that you are seeking solutions instead of someone to blame.