While many associate business growth with technology, automation, or strategic planning, the real determinant of success is people, and how they collaborate, communicate, and lead. The so-called “soft skills” (or as Kim calls them, essential skills) directly drive performance, retention, decision-making, and customer experience.
In this session, Kim Bode, CEO of 8THIRTYFOUR, reveals the true cost of poor communication, from measurable delays to operational breakdowns, and shows how strengthening essential skills becomes a competitive advantage for Michigan small businesses. Attendees will examine real-world examples of common communication and alignment failures and learn practical, repeatable strategies to build trust, reduce friction, and improve daily team operations.
Soft skills aren’t optional. They’re the difference between success and failure, and they’re the key to scaling sustainably, no matter your industry.
