In our Setting SMART Goals article, we defined SMART goals and how to set them. In this article, we've provided examples of SMART goals to help you start writing your own. You can also download the worksheet to get step-by-step guidance.
Overcome Your Fear of Presenting
I will build my confidence to deliver presentations so I can do so with less anxiety. I will take a training program in Q1 to get some strategies, templates and coaching. I will practice my presentation skills at least twice per month and will record and watch these sessions to improve my approach. I will practice for my presentations in advance and ask for input from trusted colleagues on my delivery.
Be a Better Coach.
I will improve my coaching skills. I will commit to a 1:1 coaching conversation per week with each of my six employees. This will enable my team to independently resolve challenges or issues with greater confidence and free up my time to work on other strategic priorities.
Build Your Network
I will expand my professional network by 15% by the end of this year. I will do this by attending at least 2 meetings per month including networking coffees, professional or association events and/or conferences. This will result in more new, key contacts to help me gain insights into my industry, improve the quality of my work and expand my career.
Get my PMP Designation.
By September 2019, I will write my PMP exam to gain my designation. I will devote at least 6 hours per week to study the PMBOK® Guide for the exam and will take an Exam Prep Workshop to test my readiness to pass the exam successfully. I will connect with at least 2 Project Managers who have successfully achieved their PMP for advice on preparing for the exam. I will explore study groups and the option of a study buddy to help hold me accountable.
Improving Productivity
I will improve my personal productivity in 2019. I will set priorities at the beginning of each month, week and day to focus on achieving my goals. I will leverage my calendar to schedule focused work time for when I do my best thinking. I will commit to delegating more tasks to my team to free up time in my day to focus on other projects. I will limit checking my emails to 5x day and only spend 30 minutes/day on social media platforms.
Become a Leader
I will find a mentor by the end of Q1 who can provide coaching and guidance to support my career development. I will commit to reading 1 recommended article/book per month connected to leadership development. I will take a course to help me develop leadership competencies by the end of Q3. I will actively seek out opportunities to take on informal leadership responsibilities at work or through volunteer opportunities.
Be a Strategic Thinker
I will develop my ability to take a big picture view and build strength in strategic thinking. I will commit to thinking before reacting/acting to ensure what we’re doing fits into the strategic vision of our organization. I will engage with my colleagues quarterly to understand their priorities in order to identify where there are opportunities to gain efficiencies. I will conduct monthly meetings with my team to link our accomplishments to our strategic goals and ensure alignment of our priorities for the month ahead.
