An adjective that has or shows an ingenious intelligence, smart is often used to describe goal-setting. But what does it really mean? And how can it help you achieve the career you want? In this article, we'll explore the concept of SMART goals and how they can help you reach your objectives. SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Based. Each element of the SMART framework works together to create a carefully planned, clear and traceable goal.
We'll explain how to use this framework to turn a goal like “I want to be in the lead” into a SMART goal. We'll also provide tips and examples to help you in your goal-setting efforts. When setting goals for yourself, consider if they are relevant or not. Each of your objectives must align with your broader long-term values and goals.
Ask yourself why the goal is important to you, how it will help you achieve it, and how it will contribute to your long-term goals. What is the deadline of your goal? An end date can help motivate and prioritize. Be as clear and specific as possible with what you want to achieve. The more limited your goal is, the more you understand the steps necessary to achieve it. What evidence will show that you are progressing toward your goal? For example, if your goal is to secure a management position for a start-up technology company, you can measure progress by the number of management positions you have applied for and the number of interviews you have completed. Setting milestones along the way will give you the opportunity to re-evaluate and correct the course as needed.
When you achieve your milestones, remember to reward yourself in small but meaningful ways. Have you set yourself an achievable goal? Setting goals that you can reasonably achieve within a certain time frame will help you stay motivated and focused. Before you start working toward a goal, decide if it's something you can accomplish now or if there are additional preliminary steps you need to take to be better prepared. With the example above of how to get a job as an administrator of a development team, you need to know the credentials, experience, and skills required to get a leadership position. The main advantage of SMART goals is that they are easier to know and understand when they have been realized. The SMART criteria are often associated with Peter Drucker's concept of management by objectives.
Although the acronym SMART generally remains the same, objectives and goals may differ. Goals are the distinctive purpose that must be anticipated from the task or project, while objectives, on the other hand, are the determined steps that will direct the total achievement of the project's goals. Using the SMART Goal Framework sets limits and defines the steps you'll need to take, the resources needed to achieve it, and milestones that indicate progress along the way. With SMART objectives, you are more likely to achieve your goal efficiently and effectively. For example, I will get a job as a high school mathematics teacher within three months of graduating with my Bachelor of Science in Education. I will be promoted to Senior Customer Service Representative by completing the required training modules in three months and applying for the position by the end of next quarter. Setting SMART goals can help you advance your career and achieve the success you want.
While objectives can be challenging, using the SMART framework can organize the process and provide structure before starting. Information on this site is provided as a courtesy. Indeed is not a professional or legal advisor and does not guarantee interviews or job offers. In conclusion, smart is an acronym used for setting goals that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Based. It provides structure for creating clear objectives that are easier to understand when they have been realized.
Using this framework can help motivate and prioritize tasks while ensuring that each objective aligns with broader long-term values and goals.
