A Guide to Set SMART Goals

In last week’s article, we were able to define our career goals using two different exercises. So, how do we now achieve those goals? This week we will take a look into SMART goals, a quick and easy tool that can lead you to accomplish anything you set out to do. Follow along to create your own SMART goals as we define what each letter means.

Set SMART Goals

SMART Goals

We will analyze the following goal to make sure it is a SMART goal:

I will find an entry-level job in the Retail Energy industry by the end of summer by applying to 4 jobs per week.

Specific: Goals that are specific have a significantly greater chance of being accomplished because they clearly define what you set out to reach. A vague goal can be I will find a job. Our example includes that the job seeker knows two things, what kind of job they are looking for and how they will accomplish it. This helps narrow down exactly what you would like to achieve without blindly applying to jobs and interviewing for positions you would not be interested in where you could have invested that time elsewhere.

Measurable: A SMART goal must-have criteria for measuring progress to determine if you are on track to reach your goal. Our jobseeker decided to apply to 4 different jobs per week. They are able to measure exactly how many job applications they have sent off to ensure they are meeting their end goal.

Achievable: A SMART goal must be achievable and attainable. The achievability of the goal should be stretched to make you feel challenged but defined well enough that you can actually achieve it. Searching for a new job is a job on its own. As you embark on your job search, you have to make sure the amount of job applications you choose is feasible to complete. For example, applying to 4 jobs is a reasonable number because it will give the jobseeker adequate time to search for different companies who are hiring while giving time to schedule in any interviews or networking events without feeling too overwhelmed.

Realistic: A SMART goal must be realistic. This depends on the person setting the goals. SMART is as realistic as we make them, they become more realistic when tied to an objective or reason you are willing to work towards the goals. Finding a job is a realistic goal for any jobseeker in the market. Despite the high unemployment rates, you can find job opportunities anywhere and on our website under “Job Listings.”

Timely: With a clearly defined timeline, you can create a sense of urgency to achieve your goal at your target date. If you feel you are running out of time, it may lead you to think of alternative ways to solve your goal. Because the end of summer is distant, this weekly goal will help keep the jobseeker on track to find a job by re-evaluating what needs to be done. 

As you can see, SMART goals are a simple tool that can help you redefine the goals you want to achieve. Next week we will go into Expanding your Skill Set!