It’s not hard to spot a good employee. Here are a few characteristics I’ve identified:
1. Comes to work on time or early
2. Has a pleasant attitude and is helpful
3. Works a full day without supervision
4. Goes the extra mile without being asked
5. Has self-motivation
6. Has a vested interest is his or her professional development
7. Meets [...]

The formula for building and retaining a great staff is simple:  create an environment that rewards excellence, optimize talent by putting the same intensity into developing people that you put into achieving other goals, and raise the visibility of your team (not just yourself).
But the execution is devilishly difficult and a challenge to personal ego.  [...]