Focus on behavior first, the person second.

If you let your best employee get away with or do something would you be willing to let your worst employee do the same thing? If yes, you're good to go. If no, watch out, you're engaged in favoritism and creating a very, very confused environment.

They need to know what you stand for...and what you WON'T stand for.

People will follow you if they know where it is you're leading them and what's waiting for them when they get there. Remember it's not a popularity contest, you're NOT running for prom king or prom queen.

If you want THEIR respect give them your respect.