Goal Setting – Why so Hard?
At the beginning of every year the topic of Goal Setting is being discussed in every department. It always amuses me the arguments over what’s a goal, what’s an objective, etc. I think we make it to complicated. So here are the basics. Stick to this and you’ll do fine.
- Goal Description – What is it we are going to do, increase sales, better health?
- Measure – How are we going to accomplish this? Be specific. The description usually doesn’t tell us how. So for increased sales – new customer adds with revenue greater than $5000; for better health, reduce sugary foods, exercise, read.
- Target – What is the desired outcome for the measure above? Sales – 50 new customers. Better health – Carbs <30% total diet, exercise 3 times/week, 1 book a month.
- Responsible – Who’s responsible to make it happen? In the above cases its you.
- Plan Start – When do we begin?
- Plan Stop – When are we supposed to reach the target?
Granted there are all types of goals. But the basic structure is pretty much the same. So whether it is a strategic initiative, departmental goal, or a personal objective – describe it, define the measure (how), define the target (how fast and how far), assign it (who is responsible), and date it (start/stop). Quit making it so hard.