After interviewing dozens of business leaders, and focusing on the kinds of managers and mentors that inspired them, here is what they said are the simple truths about great leaders.

• Hire nothing but the best talent.  Make certain that they have a 'realistic job preview'. click here to email me if you want more information on RJPs
• Weed out those employees who are not fitting in with your organizational strategy.  If you can't inspire them, energize them, and get them to take the initiative, maybe someone else can.  Don't consider it a failure on your part.  Not cutting them loose can adversely affect your overall team productivity, and the chance for those folks to find work for which they are better suited.
• Tell your team what needs to be done, by when, and why.  Remember, they're grown ups -- treat them that way.
• Let people do their jobs!  If you or your team leaders have chosen them for that role, don't interfere.
• Train, train, train. (sung to the tune 'Chain of Fools' by Aretha Franklin,  choreography by John Travolta)  You must give them the tools and training they need to accomplish the work.
• Listen to your people.  They often have the answers you seek.
• Eliminate any barriers that are in the way and preventing them from meeting their goals.
• Track the progress of each individual and the team as a unit.
• Publicly and privately acknowledge individuals and teams of their good work.