What does a groundhog have to do with how to talk to people on their birthdays? In this episode, Bonni and I tell you how, and also give plenty of direction on how to connect with people in genuine ways on birthdays (or any other days that are important to them). Community Feedback USA: (949) 38-LEARN Global: +1 (949) 385-3276 Twitter: @DaveStachowiak #CFLshow feedback@coachingforleaders.com Going squarely into the category of "things you never thought you'd hear on this show," I spend a little time talking about the history of Groundhog Day and why it's a special day in our family. Where people go wrong on birthdays and other important occasions: Many of have defaulted to no more than "HBD" on Facebook or other social media Some people even send birthday cards and just sign their names (gasp!) We've lost the personal touch I ever get robocalls now on my birthday How you can be better Have something to remind you (but not automated to send to the other party) Avoid the obligatory stuff you do because you feel like you have to Focus on the people who are close to you first and spend more time engaging with them on special days Instead of a "happy birthday," how about sharing why you are grateful that that person showed up in your life I record a brief audio greeting for special people in my life to share why I'm grateful for them Whatever you do, make the personal connection...and do it sincerely Community Feedback USA: (949) 38-LEARN Global: +1 (949) 385-3276 Twitter: @DaveStachowiak #CFLshow feedback@coachingforleaders.com Thank you to Garry Shortt, Duke Whitman, and Tremayne Harris for liking our page on Facebook! Thank you to Stefan Schulz, Samuel Lewis, John Lee, Karen Kalinski, Chuck Wood, Francesc Filiberto, Suzie Farthing, Werner Zgorski, and Jeffrey Wolfe for following me on Google+ Want a booster-shot mid-week? I send a weekly article via email so you can stay connected with our community and keep getting ideas and tools that will keep you moving forward. If you're not already receiving the weekly articles, you can subscribe at this link.