Trust – always be honest with your team on the condition of your startup – always follow through with what you say you’re going to do. Exaggerating and embellishing facts and promising things you either can’t or don’t intent to follow-through with will destroy your credibility and chance to build something great.

Team Work – a team environment will get everyone on the same page and working for the same goals. It makes everyone accountable for victories as well as defeats and will help drive a winning attitude throughout the organization. Beware of knuckleheads and who think they’re better than everyone else – they’re only interested in looking good, many times at the expense of others, and can thwart the success of the team.

Recognition – publicly recognize top performers, show them how much you appreciate their hard work and great results – building up the confidence and pride of your people will inspire them to do even better.

Advancement Opportunities – promote from within – provide opportunities for those who have the desire, drive and capabilities to advance their careers.

Profit Sharing/ Stock Options – create a structure for your team that will provide a sense of ownership and an opportunity for them to share in the profits of what they’re building – you’ll attract go-getter’s vs. time clock punchers.

How do you create the best work environment for startups?