S - Specific When setting a goal, be specific about what you want to accomplish. Think about this as the mission statement for your goal. This isn't a detailed list of how you're going to meet a goal, but it should include an answer to the popular 'w' questions: Who - Consider who needs to be involved in achieving the goal (this is especially important when you're working on a group project). What - Think about exactly what you are trying to accomplish and don't be afraid to get very detailed. When - You'll get more specific about this question under the "time-bound" section of defining S.M.A.R.T. goals, but you should at least set a time frame. Where - This question may not always apply, especially if you're setting personal goals, but if there's a location or relevant event, identify it here. Which - Determine any related obstacles or requirements. This question can be beneficial in deciding if your goal is realistic. For example, if the goal is to open a baking business, but you've never baked anything before, that might be an issue. As a result, you may refine the specifics of the goal to be "Learn how to bake to open a baking business." Why - What is the reason for the goal? When it comes to using this method for employees, the answer will likely be along the lines of company advancement or career development. M - Measurable What metrics are you going to use to determine if you meet the goal? This makes a goal more tangible because it provides a way to measure progress. If it's a project that's going to take a few months to complete, then set some milestones by considering specific tasks to accomplish. Milestones are a series of steps along the way that when added up will result in the completion of your main goal. As the "M" in SMART states, there should be a source of information to measure or determine whether a goal has been achieved. The M is a direct (or possibly indirect) indicator of what success for a particular goal will look like. Sometimes measurement is difficult and managers and employees will need to work together to identify the most relevant and feasible data sources and collection methods. Data collection efforts needed to measure a goal can be included in that goal's action plan. Even if a perfect, direct measurement source is not immediately feasible for a given goal, the discussion about the desired result (why this goal is important) and what the measurement options are (what success might look like) is an important and valuable part of performance planning. Measurement methods can be quantitative (productivity results, money saved or earned, etc.) and qualitative (client testimonials, surveys, etc.). A - Achievable This focuses on how important a goal is to you and what you can do to make it attainable and may require developing new skills and changing attitudes. The goal is meant to inspire motivation, not discouragement. Think about: how to accomplish the goal, if you have the tools/skills needed, if not, consider what it would take to attain them. R - Relevant Relevance refers to focusing on something that makes sense with the broader business goals. For example, if the goal is to launch a new program or service, it should be something that's in alignment with the overall business/department objectives. Your team may be able to launch a new program, but if your division is not prioritizing launching that type of new program, then the goal wouldn't be relevant. T - Time-Bound Anyone can set goals, but if it lacks realistic timing, chances are you're not going to succeed. Providing a target date for deliverables is imperative. Ask specific questions about the goal deadline and what can be accomplished within that period. If the goal will take three months to complete, it's useful to define what should be achieved halfway through the process. Providing time constraints also creates a sense of urgency. Template for writing a S.M.A.R.T. Goal Crafting S.M.A.R.T. Goals are designed to help you identify if what you want to achieve is realistic and determine a deadline. When writing S.M.A.R.T. Goals use concise language, but include relevant information. These are designed to help you succeed, so be positive when answering the questions. Initial Goal (Write the goal you have in mind): ______________________________________________________________________________ 1. Specific (What do you want to accomplish? Who needs to be included? When do you want to do achieve ? Why is this a goal?) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 2. Measurable (How can you measure progress and know if you've successfully met your goal?): ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 3. Achievable (Do you have the skills required to achieve the goal? If not, can you obtain them? What is the motivation for this goal? Is the amount of effort required on par with what the goal will achieve?): ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 4. Relevant (Why am I setting this goal now? Is it aligned with overall objectives?): ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 5. Time-bound (What's the deadline and is it realistic?): ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ S.M.A.R.T. Goal (Review what you have written, and craft a new goal statement based on what the answers to the questions above have revealed): ______________________________________________________________________________