Study after study has shown that the cost of hiring or promoting the wrong person is equal to at least one year's salary at the lowest level, up to 20 to 30 times for upper management and CEOs.

Think of lost recruiting and training time and expense, lost customers and lost market share, think of all the opportunity out the window, changes resisted, and knowledge wasted. We can't really accurately calculate the cost-but believe me it hits the bottom line! With a big screaming thud!

• Know your culture, values, and vision. Communicate them clearly!


• Hire or promote employees who are like your best performers and fit your culture.


• Hire employees who are suitable (attitude and personality traits) not just eligible (aptitude and ability).


• Increase current employee enthusiasm and loyalty-and find people who love their work and your team because it is a good fit!


• Reduce turnover of good people. Losing top performers hurts everyone!


• Lose the losers. Sorry! Give everyone a chance to succeed, but quite bluntly, some people will just never fit your culture or performance expectations. It is better for everyone that they find a new opportunity. Give them a graceful good bye. Done with respect and dignity they will often thank you later.

• Look out for the best interest of the organization. They are committed to your cause not just your cash!


• Value and practice honesty and integrity.


• Reach the highest levels of sales performance.


• Generate the highest levels of customer enthusiasm.


• Take the initiative and make smart and timely decisions.


• Work effectively and synergistically with your other employees.


• Focus on their work and are accountable and committed to getting results.