Now that we’ve worked through the process of setting goals and conducting a performance conversation, it’s a good time to revisit goal setting.

Start SMART to finish strong

The quarterly review provides an ideal opportunity to assess whether your job-specific goals need to be revised. After using the new rating scale last quarter, you may have realized that more information is needed, the timeline needs adjusting, or the outcomes need to be more specific. After discussing your current goals, set aside some time in the conversation to modify your goals for next quarter. The performance discussion is an excellent occasion to make any necessary modifications to ensure expectations are clear.

One tool for writing goals is using the SMART model. Consider adopting the motto: “Start SMART to Finish Strong.” Now is the time to adjust goals so you can receive feedback on them during the third quarterly review due April 1, 2024. before the final summary review due April 30, 2024.

What’s not SMART?

Before we define what SMART goals are, let’s be clear about what they are not:

• They are not your job description.

• They are not general statements.

• They are not things outside of your control.

Is it okay to change a goal?

It’s not only okay to change a goal, it’s wise to do so when needed. We’re all new to this process, and setting SMART goals can help clarify expectations and outcomes. As we progress in our understanding, it might become apparent that a goal doesn’t meet the SMART framework or in some other way, has become less relevant. In that case, it’s important to modify the goal or replace the goal with one that is SMART.

Goal setting is the cornerstone of the Employee Development and Performance Management system. In the same way that building a structure goes smoothly on an accurately constructed foundation, our review process is streamlined when goals are constructed well. When setting goals, be sure to make SMART goals.

What is a SMART Goal?

SMART is an acronym to help you remember to be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-based in your goal-setting. There are many goal-setting models and this is a familiar model to many people. See the SMART Goals graphic for more information and you can use this worksheet to help write SMART goals.

Here are some examples of well-written SMART goals:

1. Goal for Completing TEP

Objective: Enhance my professional capabilities by successfully completing TEP and applying its principles to current projects.

• Specific: Successfully complete all modules and pass the final requirements for TEP. Subsequently, apply at least three new methodologies learned to an active project by its next major milestone.

• Measurable: Certification obtained by November 30, 2025. Score 85% or higher on the final exam. Document and present the application of the three new methodologies in the project's bi-weekly status report, along with observed improvements.

• Achievable: I have allocated 5 hours per week for study and have access to all necessary course materials and support. My manager has approved the time to attend the program.

• Relevant: This program will strengthen my technical skills, directly benefiting ongoing and future team projects, and aligning with my career development plan.

• Time-bound: Complete the program by November 30, 2025, and apply new methodologies by December 31, 2025.

2. Goal for Delivering a Project on Time and on Budget

Objective: Successfully lead and deliver the "Q4 Regional Expansion Strategy" project, meeting all established timelines and financial allocations.

• Specific: Lead the "Q4 Regional Expansion Strategy" project from initiation to final stakeholder approval, ensuring all deliverables (e.g., stakeholder analysis, operational plan, budget proposal) are completed as per the project charter.

• Measurable: Project completed and approved by December 15, 2025. Actual project expenditure remains within 2% of the approved budget of $50,000. All key milestones (e.g., market research complete, team assembled, draft strategy presented) are met on their scheduled dates.

• Achievable: The project scope is clearly defined, necessary resources (team members, tools, data) are available, and I have the authority to make critical decisions.

• Relevant: This project is crucial for the company's growth strategy and directly impacts future revenue streams and market position.

• Time-bound: Project initiation by September 1, 2025, and final delivery by December 15, 2025.

3. Goal for Completing a Maintenance Project 

Objective: Safely and efficiently complete the resurfacing and pothole repair of Main Street, ensuring minimal disruption to traffic and meeting quality standards.

• Specific: Oversee and complete the full resurfacing and comprehensive pothole repair of the 2-mile stretch of Main Street (between Oak Ave and Elm St). This includes managing the crew, equipment, materials, and traffic control.

• Measurable: Project completed by October 31, 2025. Pass final inspection with 100% adherence to UDOT road quality standards. Maintain traffic flow disruption below 15% during working hours (as measured by daily traffic monitoring reports). Achieve zero safety incidents for the duration of the project.

• Achievable: All necessary permits, materials, and equipment have been secured, and the crew is adequately staffed and trained. Weather contingencies are factored into the timeline.

• Relevant: This project is essential for public safety, improving local infrastructure, and maintaining the municipality's commitment to quality road maintenance.

• Time-bound: Project commencement by September 1, 2025, and full completion by October 31, 2025.