Prepare for a Stronger 2026

If you watched any part of the NFL season, especially the playoffs, one thing is impossible to ignore – Coaching matters – a lot!

As a lifelong Chicago Bears fan, I can say this with confidence – This was a strong season. Not because everything was perfect but because leadership, discipline, and execution finally showed up on the field. And yes, Ben Johnson has already made a visible impact. The Bears didn’t just “hope” things would improve they changed the playbook.  What changes have you made in your playbook?

Now look at the rest of the league.

On Black Monday (1.5.26) alone, six NFL head coaches were fired – Cardinals, Raiders, Browns, Falcons – with the Titans and Giants making changes mid-season.  Why? Because when results aren’t there, leadership is held accountable.  That lesson applies directly to Staffing and Recruiting.

Habits of top performers who will dominate in 2026

Identify the Right Mentor or Coach
The top 5% of peak performers in our profession all have one thing in common – They don’t do it alone. They have:

  • A coach who challenges their thinking
  • A mentor who holds them accountable
  • Someone willing to change the playbook as the market changes

So, I’ll ask you directly:

  • Who is your coach or mentor?
  • Who pushes you when results dip?
  • Who helps you adjust strategy instead of blaming the market?

If the answer is “no one”, that’s a liability not a badge of honor.

I would love to be your mentor or coach.
For the next 7 days (January 7 – 14, 2026), if you enroll in any of our training programs, you’ll receive 20% off.

Scan the QR Code to schedule a conversation with one of our experts to discuss your goals – or call Jodi directly at 219.613.7367.

Focus on Increasing First Interviews — Every Month

You don’t win games by “activity.” You win by moving the ball down the field. If first interviews aren’t increasing:

  • Your intake is weak
  • Your qualification is sloppy
  • Or you’re working the wrong job orders

Track it. Own it. Improve it.

Stop Pitching Jobs Before You Know Career Goals

This is a performance killer.  Top performers:

  • Ask better questions
  • Listen longer
  • Align opportunities to career direction, not desperation

No career clarity = no commitment.

Increase Candidate Referrals

Elite recruiters manufacture referrals — they don’t wait for them.  They:

  • Ask consistently
  • Ask professionally
  • Ask at the right moments

Referrals shorten time-to-fill and increase placement confidence. Period.

Market a Candidate Daily

Great recruiters don’t wait for jobs.  They:

  • Create demand
  • Control the conversation
  • Position talent as a solution — not a resume

One candidate. Every day. No excuses.

Conduct Reference Checks Daily

Reference checks aren’t an afterthought — they’re a business development tool.  Used correctly, they:

  • Strengthen credibility
  • Create new client conversations
  • Reduce falloffs and surprises

Daily discipline wins long-term.         

Bottom Line – The Bears didn’t improve by accident.  They improved because coaching, accountability, and execution finally aligned. If you want a stronger 2026, don’t wait for the market to change.

Change your habits. Change your playbook. Get a coach.

And if you’re ready — we’re ready to help!  

Scan the QR Code or call Jodi at 219.613.7367.

Barbara J. Bruno

 

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