Goal Setting Best Practices

  • Review the following for input prior to developing goals:
    • Institute and unit goals/objectives
    • Employee job description
    • Previous year's objectives and performance evaluation
    • Customer feedback
    • Budgetary considerations
    • Employee skills set and developmental needs
  • Set aside adequate time, and schedule the goal setting meeting within thirty days of the annual review
  • Involve employees in the process (i.e., seek their input and ask for their ideas)
  • If goals are assigned (as opposed to being mutually developed), explain the reason for the goal to help gain employee commitment
  • Use the SMART method to develop goals. SMART goals are:
    • Specific
    • Measurable
    • Achievable
    • Relevant
    • Time-bound