People and their contributions are the core of any business. It is a leader’s challenge and responsibility to support their people so they can do the best job possible. The following principles support producing extraordinary results in business. A PACT commits both the leader and the employee to mutually beneficial goals and support in accomplishing those goals. Creating the pact helps to motivate everyone to achieve and produce at the highest levels. Establishing full alignment can significantly reduce conflict, misunderstanding and frustration. Perspective provides an opportunity for greater alignment and insight into the strategies and needs of the business. Understanding the big picture provides a context within which everyone can create a plan for personal success that also supports the goals of the organization. Additionally, each individual can better collaborate with team members, when they more fully understand each other’s needs, goals and perspectives. Acknowledgement is the most inexpensive and simple way to create a positive, supporting and motivating environment. Frequent, sincere acknowledgement is critical to encouraging growth and the most effective way you can positively impact the performance and behavior of people. It costs nothing. People grow through strength and confidence building, so a good leader encourages this at every opportunity. Collaboration is the art of working effectively with others. Collaboration creates a sense of ownership in the business or project. Employees are more motivated to achieve if they feel included and consulted in their workplace. They want to contribute. Participating, sharing ideas and learning new skills encourage a desire to “give back”. Trust is the foundation for safe productive work environments. Telling the truth without blame, judgment, attack or defense, is the ultimate trust builder. To create a trusting environment, free of fear, where people feel safe enough to take risks is the best preparation for greatness. People feel free to be most creative and productive where there are no “mistakes”, as long as learnings are gleaned from each experience. This is the kind of environment where high growth prevails, and where people are happy, satisfied and give their best each day on the job.