Get the team right

Books on the topic of human capital -- recruiting, motivating and retaining employees -- fills many shelves at the local Barnes and Noble. And they should. Studies show that top performers out produce low performers by a factor. In software, it is a factor of eight-to-ten.

With the stakes so high, it's important to create an environment that draws talented people. It's also smart to take your time when hiring new people. (One highly successful firm I know conducts between 25 and 40 interviews to fill one position.) Once the right people are on board, make sure to pick the leaders wisely.

Tom's Takeaway: To ensure a great team, work to bring in great work opportunities. Take your time when hiring and make sure talented people with proven leadership skills are in charge. If you pick your leaders wisely, employee retention will be automatic.