Corporate culture is built over time and defines the unique business values, traditions, beliefs and attitudes of a company. In fact, according to new research from the National Center for the Middle Market, nearly three-quarters of middle market business leaders say culture is a top priority for their firm.

The social events we get invited to usually require the investment of time, money or both. Research by Grant Donnelly, assistant professor of marketing, and his colleagues shows that giving an excuse about not having enough time can hurt relationships, whereas giving an excuse about not having enough money can help them.