Trade Secret:
Get
SMART
Sample
SMART Goal
Downloads:
SMART
Goals Exercise (pdf) 
SMART
Goals Samples (pdf)
Related Trade Secrets:
Don't
Sweat the Small Stuff
Hat
Trick
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Let's apply the SMART technique to one of our earlier stated goals: "Implement a Guest Comment Card System"
S = Specific
Is this goal specific? Yes. There is a beginning and an end to the project, and it is clearly defined.
M = Measurable
We'll need a little more information to meet this requirement. How about defining a specific number of completed comment cards you wish to collect as a measurable goal.
A = Achievable
Yes, you and your company are willing to invest some extra time, energy and resources to implement the system.
R = Realistic
Once the initial set-up is complete, you have a designated person with the time and knowledge to run the comment card program.
T = Time Dated
We have a problem here. We haven't specified a due date. Allow yourself enough time to create and print the cards, train your staff on how to distribute them, receive completed cards from the customers and time to compile the feedback.
We finish this exercise by applying the "so that" discipline. Here's the reworked goal:
"By April 1 we will have received and compiled the results from 250 completed guest comment cards... so that we can gain the feedback necessary to exceed our guests expectations."
Once a goal has become SMART, begin identifying the tasks that will be necessary to accomplish your goal. Each of these smaller tasks should also meet the SMART requirements. For example, let's say you will have the comment cards printed in color. You'll need to start by finding a printer who can print the cards within the timeframe and budget you have set. First set a due date for this action step. Perhaps you'd like research four printers by January 31st, and make your final decision by February 5th. Place these dates in your calendar so youcan monitor your progress.
You can reap tremendous benefits by using the SMART system. It is an excellent way to manage action steps while measuring proactive behavioral change around pre-set goals. Remember you can't manage results, you can only manage the process. Stop working harder, and start working SMARTer!