Good news. We’ve come through the economic eye of the storm.The skies are clearing. Those who have survived – and thrived - are creative and work smart. 2010 will be a better year for business and the job market.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the key factors of success in business and recruiting.  In my experience, the #1 factor of success is planning.  Planning takes thinking and work. 

Recruiters and search consultants who plan out earn those who do not by 35% on average. 35% of £100,000 is £35,000. 35% of £200,000 is £70,000.  For a business or recruiting team, 35% of £500,000 is £175,000.

Many know that planning is a key exercise in goal-setting.  This involves both long term (strategic thinking) and short term (near term action-oriented steps).  Do you have 1 year, five-year, 10-year, 20-year plans? Are they in writing?

Planning is so important because it lays out a mental framework, a path to achieve goals. It helps to smooth out the inevitable “bumps in the road.”

The Seven Steps of Planning:

1. Determine your goal (time frame, quantify it).

2. Envision yourself achieving it (mental picture).

3. Write it down (be specific and detailed).

4. Determine the actions required (steps with dates).

5. Take action (follow your plan).

6. Review your plan/goals regularly (semi-annually, annually).

7. Reach your goals (check off accomplishments).

Many top billers have daily and weekly plans. They know exactly what they will do each day before they arrive at the office.  Successful owners have strategic, detailed multi-year plans.

Planning is a process. Time taken to plan will be time well spent. Plan to win and you will. 

Mike Ramer, CPC, CSP, is founder and president of Ramer Search Consultants in the New York area.  Mike is an international trainer for the search and recruitment industry. He designed “The Art of Search” © training programs, which he presents at industry events, conferences and recruiting firms worldwide. For more about Mike’s training, visit  www.RamerGroup.com or email him at [email protected].  Follow him on Twitter: @MikeRamer.