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Respect above all else, even when your employees are wrong. Professionalism at all times, even when you're angry.
As the leader you must be able and willing to do any job. You must also know every job. If they see you doing the lowest job on the totem pole because it was needed, they know you respect the worth of their job. If an employee feels worth, they will do their job to the best of their ability.
Always seek the input of your team members. When a decision is made, explain why that decision was made. This allows buy-in to the decision made. I honestly can't say I've ever made a decision where there wasn't at least someone on the team that agreed with me. They won't all agree but as long as someone below you owns it, it won't create hostility for you.
Admit when you're wrong and pivot to a better idea, many times an idea from someone else. Thank them for their thinking and praise their idea in front of others. You must always work towards buy-in from your team. This is how you achieve excellence, with open communication and honesty.
Sniff out toxic gossip and meet with that person(s) quickly. Have an open and honest conversation and allow them to vent. Correct misinformation and seek to address their needs. Allowing employees to create a toxic work environment because you don't want someone to ask you the tough questions breeds complacency and turnover. You cannot hire and retain good staff if you work culture is toxic. You many times will only know if your work place is toxic by "leadership by walking around." Humans always want to talk and if you're out with your employees, you'll hear it from somewhere.
Lastly, be ethical. If you don't have integrity, you don't have anything.
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