Setting objectives and goals — even realistic ones — is fundamental, but there is a tendency to generalise goals. For example, an objective could be to increase sales, but increasing them by how much, and by when? A much more achievable goal could be to increase sales by 10% by the end of this month. That is a SMART goal.
As part of Professional Academy's apprenticeship programme, apprentices are asked to set SMART goals to complete during their time on programme. After learning what SMART goals are and how to apply them, it becomes clear they are much more efficient than a conventional objective.
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What Does SMART Stand For
S — Specific
There is no use in setting a generic goal because it will not suit everyone personally. Adapting the goal to what is needed makes it much more valuable. The right course to prosper in a chosen field of work will not suit everybody in the office thinking the same thing — specificity is key.
M — Measurable
Is the goal quantifiable? Going back to the example objective of selling more, this can be measured by the amount of units sold. Being a measurable goal allows identification of exactly when it has been reached — that is, what is desired as the end result.
A — Achievable
The point of a target is to challenge and motivate completion of a piece of work. Setting a target too high can cause stress and decrease the chance of the target actually being within reach. Likewise, setting a target that is too easy will inhibit progress and lead to doing less. Setting a reasonable target is crucial.
R — Relevant
Running a multi-million pound enterprise by the end of the month might be a little too ambitious. Ambition is a leading trait, but starting off with something more realistic means working towards something meaningful. It is worth remembering that all successful business people do not just become successful overnight — goals must be relevant to the current situation and longer-term direction.
T — Timebound
Deadlines are not something most people like, but something most need. It is easy to get lost in the world of the internet looking at content online, but if there is a job to finish, setting a specific time by which to have it completed will help ensure it gets done. Setting a deadline helps focus the mind and balance priorities effectively.
Why Apply SMART Goals to Working and Personal Life
SMART goals are not just for the workplace. They can help anyone become more organised and sort their priorities. There is such a satisfying feeling to ticking something off a to-do list — SMART goals provide that sense of focus and purpose on a larger scale.
Find out more about SMART and how it can be applied to progressing in a marketing career in the short video below.
SMART is used across all courses and at all levels in Professional Academy qualifications. Whether looking to study a qualification in management and leadership, marketing, or sales, the SMART framework will always come up.
How Professional Academy Supports Your Journey
Professional Academy has supported learners and apprentices for over 27 years in developing the skills and frameworks needed to progress professionally. SMART goal-setting is just one of the practical tools embedded throughout Professional Academy's qualifications and apprenticeship programmes.
To find out which qualification or apprenticeship is the right fit, use the Qualifications Navigator or book a call with an advisor today.
