What are the elements of a successful team? In a nutshell—whether it’s an athletic team, a dance team, or a business team—the critical elements are people who are knowledgeable, dedicated, productive, work well with others, and constantly seek to improve their skills.

But hiring and firing are equally important. You know what you want in your employees, and you would do well to know what you don’t want.

When you’re ready to hire, write a job description that will identify the skills necessary to do the job. Employees need to know exactly what you expect of them. A job description is also important for you when you are evaluating an employee’s performance, because it provides you with specific items on which to base your evaluation.

Develop a pool of potential employees. Ask your best employees for referrals for people they have worked with in the past, because they will recommend others who share their work ethic. Don’t overlook retirees and disabled people, either. They could be among your most valuable assets.  

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