If you work on your ability to lead meetings effectively, you'll gain stature and set yourself apart from your coworkers in the eyes of your employer, writes Paul Axtell. You'll also learn how to build better relationships by observing others without dominating the conversation.

Apologizing is the easiest way to fix your reputation at work if you've made a mistake, writes Sheiresa Ngo. In addition, make sure to address false rumors instead of ignoring them while continuing to do your best work.

Those who volunteer for a variety of organizations will find that the experience helps them build connections and improve their skills, writes Robin White Goode. The background you establish as a volunteer will boost your resume and could give you the soft skills you need to land a great job.

Companies that want to create a family-friendly workplace go beyond traditional benefits to offer flextime, paid leave, help with child care, family bonding activities, lactation support and concierge services. V.I.P. Mortgage's Stuart Crawford said activities such as spirit days, family outings and sports help stressed employees decompress.

Savvy job seekers know December is a great time to look for employment, since most of the competition is slowing down their efforts. Furthermore, many companies use the end of their year to approve hiring decisions for positions that could be cut if not filled by January.

Unnecessary relationship stress can definitely bleed over into your professional life, harming your productivity at work, writes Sherrie Campbell. If you're in a relationship that's not positive, honest and free of agendas, you could be hurting your career in the process.

Cloud DCS's futuristic design and Comvert's indoor skate park make their offices two of the coolest in the world, writes Kevin Ryan. Other amazing offices include dPop's Detroit office, which includes a company meeting room located in an old bank vault.