I echo EWR's thoughts.

Keeping the lines of communication open is the key to safety. That includes the flight attendants, gate agents, rampers, ect. If you don't, you can quickly find yourself in an aircraft that was designed to be flown by two people, actually being flown by one.

Another important point is to let the FO's fly. There is nothing worse than a captain who points out every little mistake or deviation. Those are the ones who have to keep the airplane flying in their "little box of comfort." To me that is just a sign that they are not capable of flying outside of it. When I flew with those guys from the right seat I was very worried about what they would do if things really hit the fan.

All in all, you will figure out what works from experience. Have fun!