First, this article will explain what three cornerstones of high performance teams are, and how to improve each one. Then, it will discuss issues that I encountered during my past management assignments, and what I did to make teams more effective.

Groups vs. Teams A word about difference between groups and teams. Both can be of any size. A team though, holds a specific objective that they are focused on achieving. For example, a classroom of students can be either a group or a team. A class in which each student has an individual goal of a passing grade, is a group. But a class where if one person fails, whole class fails, is a team.

The Three Cornerstones The three cornerstones of high performance teams are: •Productive Climate •Clear Roles •Principled Leadership

Climate is best thought of as intangible environment that team works within. A productive climate will have collaboration and resource-sharing. It will also have clear communication across all levels, building a climate of trust. Productive teams therefore must be high in collaboration and communication.

Roles of team members should be clear, as well as balanced. Regardless of size of team, various skill sets will be needed, from technical expertise to coordination roles. Having a mix of all skills is important, but ensuring clear paths of accountability for tasks and sub-projects is paramount. Effective teams therefore must have clear roles and fair accountability between members.

Leadership is necessary for any project, but more successful projects have pro-active stewardship. A highly skilled leader can encourage right climate of collaboration, and set clear milestones for all members. Effective teams therefore must have principled motivators who focus on achievable goals.

Let me take a few minutes to explain what you need to know about incorporating your business. While it certainly isn’t a move every business will want to make, there are definitely some large benefits associated with incorporation.

MYTH Incorporating means I can’t take money whenever I want it.

TRUTH Yes you can! This is a MYTH that holds a lot of small business owners back from incorporating. If you set a payroll amount for yourself, then decide you want/need more money, you simply write yourself another check and call it an "owner distribution" or a "draw."

MYTH There’s too much paperwork involved once you incorporate. I don’t have time.

TRUTH There are some additional forms you have to complete. There are some additional taxes you have to pay. HOWEVER... read this carefully... for three or four extra forms and cost of additional taxes, most businesses will still save when compared to counting every dollar you make toward personal income.