If you gather 100 experienced leaders together to share with you their most important secrets for success, you probably wouldnt hear a lot of academic theory or jargon. Instead, this is a good idea of what youd hear:

1) Put ethics first. If you make unethical decisions for short-term gain, you will lose in the end. Let your principles guide you in the many decisions you must make regarding business practices and people. You will regret it if you dont.

2) Surround yourself with the best people you can find. If you are able to attract the brightest, most dedicated, most talented people, they will move your organization forward. Leverage their skills, ideas and creativity your people are your greatest asset.

3) Show your staff you value them personally. Research shows the personal relationship with a direct manager is the key for retaining your best and your brightest. Dont ever withhold your praise. Tell them why you value them and recognize their contributions.

4) Be trustworthy. Be fair in your dealings with others. Dont show favoritism. Remember you must always walk your talk. Your actions speak louder than your words. Dont ask others to do what you cant or wont do. You cant lead if others dont trust you.

5) Develop Win-Win-Win Solutions. Your company will only grow if you can provide valuable services that help your clients succeed. In the meantime, you must help your staff achieve their goals, and the organization must grow. A win-win-win approach means you create solutions and services that support the best interests of your client, your staff and your company. If one of these elements is missing, your business wont grow. Dont try to shortchange one element to the benefit of the other.