Fun topic! I'll list the top reasons for my own personal success. Whether I am actually a "smart" recruiter is debatable!

1. Emotions:

I can take a $50K punch in the stomache and get right back up! In this business you MUST be able to "rise above" the daily ups and downs. No other profession has so much at stake with each day. I work in both direct and contract staffing. One day my spirit might be soaring high with a few new placements ready to start - and the very next day they might both call with a "change in plans"......only to be topped off with a 3rd contractor being "not extended" if you catch my drift! So as a recruiter you need to rise above the money involved - and realize you can NOT be in the recruiting profession without being hit with falloffs, no-starts, offers turned down, etc. Just gotta keep going!

2. Technology

I began my career before any of the technological advancements we all rely on today. I have an intimate understanding of each and every process which has now been automated out of our daily lives. So while many recruiters know how to use the tools - they may not have the complete understanding of the "how/what/why" that is behind the tools. Give me a yellow notepad, a phone and Pentel P207 mechanical pencil - and I will amaze you!

3. Community

Reaching out beyond my personal desk has always been important to me. My ability to serve my customers is directly tied to my ability to rely on "community". There is great value in meeting others around the world who share in your values.

4. Family

I was "smart" enough to "marry up" nearly 15 years ago! My wife has inspired me to become the best I can be - and the addition of 3 great kids has only increased my desire to "work smart" rather that "work hard" so I can have all the free time I need to share in the lives of my wife and children.

5. Perseverance

"Big Things" don't "just" happen. I set big goals for myself and have absolute confidence in making them a realilty.