John Maxwell’s blog shares advice for leadership to connect during the Christmas and holiday season by focusing on others, including team members.  Five important techinques for communicating and connecting with others are shared 

http://www.johnmaxwell.com/blog/connect-this-season-by-putting-your-focus-on-others

I believe connection and communication are closely linked. Here are five ways you can connect and communicate more lovingly and effectively during this season:

1. Establish Common Ground — Common ground always exists. It’s your job to discover it. For better connection with the people you love, focus on the areas where you agree. Also try to see things from their perspective.

2. Use More than Words — When you’re the one speaking, no matter what you’re trying to say, you need to be aware of ALL the ways that you are communicating: verbally, visually, and emotionally. Make sure that all of them are saying the same thing. People are affected less by what we say, and more by what they understand.

3. Stop Talking and Listen — It’s natural to focus on ourselves and what we are planning to say next. In fact, when was the last time that you really LISTENED to someone you care about? Good listening communicates care.

4. Live What You Say — Your actions, more than anything else, determine whether other people want to connect with you. Do the thoughts you share match the actions you take on a daily basis? The key to connecting effectively is to be consistent and authentic.

5. Ask Questions to Go Deeper — One of my favorite things to do is to ask one or two questions of everyone at the table. It’s definitely something I’ll be doing during this holiday season, and I recommend it for you.