What is a SMART Goal?
SMART goals are an effective way to set objectives and measure progress toward achieving them. They are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. When setting SMART goals you should identify what you want to achieve, set criteria for success, set realistic goals, ensure goals are relevant, and set a timeline for achieving goals.
You can use SMART goals for as many goals and time frames as you like. Constantly look at your SMART goals and document your milestones to measure progress, especially while working remotely. SMART goals are a great way to gather information and proof for a salary review.
How to set SMART goals
- Specific: Identify what you want to achieve, be clear and precise, and set an exact goal
- Measurable: Set criteria for success, track progress towards a goal and monitor goals regularly
- Achievable: Set realistic goals, consider current resources, and set an attainable timeline
- Relevant: Ensure goals are relevant to your overall mission, consider the impact of your goals, and make sure goals are aligned with the company’s values and vision
- Time-bound: Set a timeline for achieving your goals, break down goals into smaller milestones, and set deadlines throughout the process
What are the benefits of setting SMART goals?
SMART goals make goals more achievable and easier to track. It also establishes a timeline and action plan for achieving goals, this forces us to reflect and come to realistic expectations. Lastly, SMART goals allow for better use of resources.
What are examples of SMART goals in the workplace?
- I want to increase the number of partners in channel marketing networks by 10% in the next two months by implementing a partnership management platform to manage affiliate and referral programs to increase revenue by 8% and strengthen our community of partners.
- I want to increase our ad conversion rate by 20% by the end of the year by including more display ads in our paid ad marketing mix to increase the number of conversions for our products and revenue by 10%.
