Tips for Setting Goals

It’s a new year, and already time seems to be escaping us. Getting back into our hectic working lives can be a struggle after a generous helping of holidays and setting goals in the workplace can make for a “big bang” start to the year. There are a range of different goals that you can set; personal, departmental, company as well as daily, short term or long term goals.

Things to remember when setting goals:

• Make sure you have set goals that are achievable and to also decide on specific goals, rather than a general idea. Many people tend to set similar goals each year, and though they are taking the right step to actually set a goal, it may not be too beneficial in the long run. For example, instead of setting the goal to achieve “finding new clients” or “increasing turnover”, set a specific goal such as “find ten new clients before June” or “increase turnover to $1.6 million this quarter”, or something similar.
• By setting broad goals, you have no real driving force and no real way to measure success, whereas if you have target, the goal will seem more attainable and provide more satisfaction.

Remember to keep the following in mind when you are setting goals, and make sure each goal is:

S = Specific

M = Measurable

A = Attainable

R = Realistic

T = Timely