Have you noticed that every year there have been fewer traditional printed Christmas cards arriving in the post? Seems that many businesses are 'saving the trees' and also some money by sending electronic cards but ... do they mean the same?

Is it OK to give Gift Vouchers, or are they too impersonal? Should grandparents be expected to give presents to all their grandchildren this year? What about to their step grand-children, new partners and their children?

The next time you forget where you parked, here's an idea that could help you to locate it.

Pinch your right nostril shut.

Never announce the joke or story with lines like: "A funny thing happened on the way here...", or  "Do you want to hear a really funny joke?", or  "That reminds me of a story...", or  "Have you heard the one about...?"

Humour consists of stories, jokes, one-liners and anecdotes. The anecdote is the best form. According to one survey, 98% of the population don't know  how to tell a joke well.

I often find myself wishing my car would simply re-fuel itself as the biggest barrier for me is usually just about making time out of my busy schedule to stop and refuel. However every time I re-fuel at my regular petrol station I always end up having a great service experience and continue on my journey feeling like the transaction was an enjoyable part of my day.

What do 75% of your consumers have in common? They'd rather you supported a cause! UNICEF, with help from its SME partners, have identified why supporting a cause is key in today's business landscape.

In business, whether profit driven like so many corporations, government services or not for profits organisations, of which there are many, at this time of year we start to review our budgets.