His advice about checking email (or any distraction, ahem, Hacker News, Reddit, Facebook) in bursts is spot on. You'll see your productivity go up and your focus will improve.
As an entrepreneur, my ability to hire and motivate great staff is a big concern. Branson is right about it being essential to a successful business. I'd like to see specific, practical advice on selecting and retaining stellar employees.
Having worked at a startup that had the most loyal employees I've ever seen, I can offer these points that I noticed (aimed at the rockstar employees):
1. Pay them above market rate.
2. Involve them in your idea process.
3. Give overall guidance, but let them brainstorm how to implement an idea and who will work on it.
As an entrepreneur, my ability to hire and motivate great staff is a big concern. Branson is right about it being essential to a successful business. I'd like to see specific, practical advice on selecting and retaining stellar employees.