A business with a good business plan, marketing plan, sales plan, etc. is going to have thought about how to prevent (or at least reduce risk of) other 9 items on this list.

Review this list again and ask yourself, "How prepared is my business to deal with these potential problems?" If answer is YES, then take some time to review those plans to ensure they're still valid. If answer is NO, spend some time TODAY to address those issues.

Make sure that you give team "rules" so that it can respond quickly to changing situations.

6. Teams can survive only if there is open & honest communication at all times.

Everyone on team must be able to offer input, ideas, and criticisms. Nothing must be held back for fear of reprisals.

7. Teams that learn most will lead most.

Your teams must stay aware of latest information, techniques, and technology. They must enjoy learning and should have ample opportunity to do so.

8. Teams should focus on their own efforts, not competition's.

It's o.k. to stay in touch with what competition is doing, but your team's focus should always be on what it needs to do for it's success.

9. For your team to make a difference, it must do things differently.

If you do it "same old way" your team will stay exactly where it's always been.

10. A team approach may not be best approach.

It's great to want to create a team environment in your business, but a team approach is always appropriate or necessary.