Thanksgiving is everyday when you're in business,

By Naomi Finkel

Business schools nationwide preach the doctrine of growing a successful business with quality products and services and ongoing customer rapport. Keeping in touch. Solving problems. Showing your appreciation.

Saying thanks to your customers is more than a one day turkey event. It's common courtesy. A phone call. A card. A gift. A special event. A handshake. And it's a two way street. If you do something special for someone, you would expect that your actions would be acknowledged.

Referrals are one of the most cost-effective ways to grow a business. Can you imagine giving someone an active referral and never hearing from the company who benefited from your referral? Unfortunately, it happens a lot.

Little acts of courtesy and kindness make you stand out from your competitors. I'll never forget when I had minor surgery and the doctor called me the next day to ask how I was feeling. Old fashioned "bedside" manners should permeate all your client/patient relationships.

So, take that Thanksgiving cheer and spread it throughout the year. Give and ye shall receive. And when you receive, take the time to say "Thank you."