By
Bill Fields
Submitted On February 22, 2011
When setting a performance objective, assigning a task or
chartering a project, it is vital that the Manager clearly articulates
the goals and expectations for the assignment. Spending time on this at
the outset, will help reduce possible confusion and missed outcomes. The
best way to accomplish this is by developing S.M.A.R.T. Goals.
S.M.A.R.T. Goals are:
* Specific
* Measurable
* Achievable
* Relevant
* Time-Bound
These descriptions can be understood as follows definitions indicate:
Specific
The desired outcome is described in sufficient detail with real precision and clarity. There is no ambiguity or confusion
Measurable
Appropriate metrics and standards have been developed and discussed. They are observable and quantifiable.
Achievable
The assignment has a reasonable expectation of being successful. It may be a stretch-goal, but it is not unrealistic.
Relevant
There is a direct and explicit connection from the organization to the assignment to the employee. The employee understands their role and importance.
Time-Bound
The Due Date and any related milestones have been identified. In may instances, the more important the undertaking, the shorter the timeline is.
The Manager always should ensure that the goals are understood properly. In order to ascertain such confirmation, ask the employee to express in his or her own words the understanding of each of the S.M.A.R.T. Goal's elements. Paraphrasing is the best techniques to confirm that there is a common understanding.
This approach will help create the pre-requisite conditions for accountability and performance enhancement. It is a tool worth practising.
S.M.A.R.T. Goals are:
* Specific
* Measurable
* Achievable
* Relevant
* Time-Bound
These descriptions can be understood as follows definitions indicate:
Specific
The desired outcome is described in sufficient detail with real precision and clarity. There is no ambiguity or confusion
Measurable
Appropriate metrics and standards have been developed and discussed. They are observable and quantifiable.
Achievable
The assignment has a reasonable expectation of being successful. It may be a stretch-goal, but it is not unrealistic.
Relevant
There is a direct and explicit connection from the organization to the assignment to the employee. The employee understands their role and importance.
Time-Bound
The Due Date and any related milestones have been identified. In may instances, the more important the undertaking, the shorter the timeline is.
The Manager always should ensure that the goals are understood properly. In order to ascertain such confirmation, ask the employee to express in his or her own words the understanding of each of the S.M.A.R.T. Goal's elements. Paraphrasing is the best techniques to confirm that there is a common understanding.
This approach will help create the pre-requisite conditions for accountability and performance enhancement. It is a tool worth practising.
Diamond Management Institute develops high-performance
organizations through customized management consulting, strategic and
operational planning, leadership development, and employee training
solutions. We are passionate about improving performance and
effectiveness - for organizations and for individuals.
Contact Bill Fields, President at 905-820-8308 or http://diamondmanagementinstitute.com
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Bill_Fields/936591
Contact Bill Fields, President at 905-820-8308 or http://diamondmanagementinstitute.com
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