Have you thought much about goal setting? Even as you’re looking for your next job or trying to determine your best career path, it’s helpful to put a framework around what you want to accomplish. SMART goal setting helps you do this. What is it, and how does it work?

Let’s take a closer look.

Specific

To better plan your goals, you need to be specific about the outcomes. If you plan around “I want to find a job,” that might be too broad a category. Instead, focus on what specific area you’re looking in and plan the next steps accordingly.

Measurable

How will you evaluate your progress? It can take time to reach your goals, but you should have a way to look at how far you’ve come and readjust if necessary. Check on your progress every week or every month to give yourself an idea of where you’ve been and how you can move forward more effectively.

Attainable

Your goal should also be possible. If your goal is to make a certain amount of money, you need to be looking at the suitable types of jobs to accomplish that. If you’re not qualified for those jobs, your road will be more difficult. Make sure your goals are realistic.

Relevant

It’s also essential for your goals to align with your long-term plans and values. For example, if you want to relocate, you may want to consider the implications of a move on your personal life and your family.

Time-Based

Deadlines are also critical to the success of your goal setting. Without giving yourself a realistic time frame, you could struggle to see any forward progress. Deadlines are motivating, which doesn’t mean you can’t make changes as you reassess your time frame.

Are you ready to set SMART goals for your life and career? Contact the team at Nextaff to see how we can help today.