by Kelly Sigler

Created on: August 05, 2008   Last Updated: June 13, 2009

OVERCOMING THE BARRIERS OF BUILDING AN EXECUTIVE TEAM

"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some hire PR officers." - Daniel J. Boorstin

Ah, humility! Perhaps the first step in building an effective executive team, especially in a new startup business, is to admit that you cannot handle every detail yourself. Most things, yes, but not all of them. Somewhere along the way, you will need to find people to order around. What you truly need for your startup company to succeed is a group of intelligent executives to help out with the management of daily tasks. But how to connect with these paragons of corporate virtue? There are some definite barriers to overcome when attempting to find a team of people who can work well independently and still come together for the good of the enterprise, but once you are able to overcome these obstructions, your corporation will be unstoppable!

TRUST
"The only way to make a man trustworthy is to trust him." - Henry L. Stimson

When it comes to hiring people who will be managing your new business, trust is of utmost importance. However, trust is not something that just comes easily between groups of people. It must be earned both ways, and it's important to remember this when working with new executives. One of the best ways to foster trust in your employees is to give them as much information about your company as you are able. Letting them know some of the problems and obstacles that they will be facing can also build a sense of responsibility toward your new enterprise, and will increase their productivity. If someone is aware that you trust them, they will be less likely to abuse that trust, and will work harder to earn yours. For example, you can let them know that sales aren't doing well this quarter, or that you see some difficulties in the future with a new program. It probably isn't necessary to mention that the toilets are malfunctioning. Let them think it's their fault.

RESPECT
"Probably no greater honor can come to any man than the respect of his colleagues." - Cary Grant

As with trust, respect must be earned especially in the business world. When working to build a solid and effective executive team, respect must lead the way. While it's great to be "liked" by your employees, respect from them and for them is much more important. You can begin by making a conscious effort to take responsibility for your own actions, and giving credit where it is due. The ability to admit to your mistakes and to reward others for

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