Setting "SMART" Goals

Wed, 2014-11-05 05:07 -- tomjonez

 

Recently while completing a course sponsored by FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency), I read a section in the syllabus about setting goals.  It is so simple and memorable that I decided to share it with my friends.  The concept is built around the acronym “SMART”.

Here it is:

Developing a Goal Statement

Your goal statement expresses what you hope to achieve... [Effective]  ...goals should be:

S = Specific - Goals should be stated in clear, concise terms that have meaning for those working on the campaign and other key stakeholders.

M = Measurable - Measurement is how you evaluate success, but make sure your numbers reflect significant achievement.

A = Attainable - A goal that makes you stretch is good. One that is completely out of reach is de-motivating.

When considering whether a goal is attainable, ask yourself: Do I have the skills and resources—or can I get them—to achieve this goal?

R = Recorded - Once you have identified your goal, write it down! It will keep you focused and is the foundation for evaluating your campaign’s success.

T = Time Bound - All goals should have a target date for completion. You should set a realistic deadline and interim benchmarks, as needed.

This material can be found online at: http://emilms.fema.gov/IS29/PIOsummary.htm

I trust this is helpful to you - and to those you lead.