Which SMART Goals Can Help Improve Professional Growth? 

Even with the concept of SMART goals applied, it can still be tough to understand which goals will have the most return on investment. While job titles, industries, and professional trajectory will all factor into the specific goals being set, there is a handful that remains universal.

Learning new skills: New career opportunities might require new skills, and while that’s true for movement within an organization, it’s especially true for those looking to change job roles or industries. Whether it means going back to school for an advanced degree or taking advantage of on-the-job professional development, make this goal very specific, and don’t hesitate to talk to management or upper-level supervisors to help develop a plan.

Build a Personal Brand

Looking for a new job? Looking to move up within the organization? Either way, thought leadership and expert insight will offer serious momentum. Building a personal brand through actions like increased social media presence, a personal website, and even public speaking means potential employers will get a comprehensive picture of their potential new hire. It can also be leveraged to bring to an existing organization when looking for a promotion. 

Find a Better Balance

Although organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of a work-life balance, it’s ultimately something that we (and not our higher-ups) need to tackle on our own. Think about what that balance means; it could be better on-the-job perks, a more flexible working schedule, or even a heartier vacation policy — it could also mean switching jobs to get what you need. Ultimately, being an advocate for better balance makes for a happier, more productive, and more successful employee. 

Look For Leadership

“Moving up” in an organization involves more than just crossing your fingers and hoping for a promotion. It often means taking on more responsibilities to get the recognition that highlights your leadership capabilities. Work with your manager to set a firm timeline with milestones along the way to help keep progress on track, and take the time to create an action plan with steps to help get there.

What Can Be Done To Stay on Track?

Once SMART goals are established and the plan to get there has been implemented, it’s important to know how to stay on track for meeting these goals. Start with attainable goals — there’s no reason (or advantage) to spend precious energy on lofty goals that may take much longer to meet. Make sure to be consistent with your efforts and take reasonable steps every day to work towards those goals. 

Another excellent way to keep on track is by asking for feedback from those who can help track progress and offer important insight. This can be a mentor, superior, or even a coach who has experience working with SMART goals and the people who set (and achieve) them. 

With private coaching, you can receive help with putting together step-by-step strategies and plans of action for setting goals and even exceeding them, with the help of a mentor by your side.

The business coaches who conduct The Alexander Group coaching sessions are both certified and experienced with mentoring — let’s start working on SMART goals.