For companies aligned with the calendar year, the beginning of the year is typically focused on finalising plans to achieve sales goals. For many animal health sales professionals, whether calling on companion animal practices or large animal food production segments, the inclination is to jump in full steam ahead. However, a thoughtful and focused approach with rigorous business planning leads to better results. Dr Wendy Heckelman of WLH Consulting identifies general principles that should be followed when developing your plan (geography or account-based).