Objectives are omnipresent: they guide projects, guide actions, personal and professional development, and structure follow-ups. However, it is not uncommon to see objectives that are vague, too broad or poorly understood, which hinder the effectiveness of teams and the achievement of expected results. With the creation of clear and motivating goals, you will increase productivity… and fun!
Do you prefer the video format? It is below.
Why clarify the objectives?
A well-defined goal not only better directs efforts, but also mobilizes the people involved. It facilitates decision-making, progress tracking, and communication. To achieve this, the SMART model is a must-have – to which we add an E for ‘Engaged’ and ‘Energizing’ here.
The SMART + E model for clear and motivating goals
|
Letter |
Meaning |
What it means |
|
S |
Specific |
The objective is clear, precise and unambiguous. |
|
M |
Measurable |
We can know if the objective has been achieved or not. |
|
Has |
Achievable |
The objective is realistic according to the means available. |
|
R |
Relevant |
It is aligned with strategic priorities. |
|
T |
Time-bound |
A clear deadline or timeline is specified. |
|
E |
Engaged and Energizing |
The objective is carried by a person or a team AND it makes sense, it motivates. |
Three examples of SMART+E goals
- Improve onboarding of new employees
- Formulate it as follows: “Set up an online onboarding process by September 1st, used by 100% of new hires from their first day, and validated with the HR team.”
- Reduce customer service irritants
- Formulate it as follows: “Identify the 3 main irritants experienced by customers by April 15, propose at least 2 concrete solutions for each, and implement those that are feasible by June, with the service team concerned.”
- Optimising office space
- Formulate it as follows: “Redesign the head office offices by September 30 to free up 25% of space, integrating 2 collaboration areas and 1 concentration area, according to the needs expressed by employees during the internal survey.”
The steps to create a good goal
- Identify the “what”: define the goal in a SMART+E way.
- Clarify the “why”: how is it relevant, and for whom?
- Defining the “how”: what major steps or levers should be considered?
- Test the clarity of the lens with a few simple questions.
- Communicate and validate the objective with the people concerned.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Being too vague or too technical.
- Confusing objective and solution.
- Omit the deadline or success criteria.
- Not validating the teams’ ability to carry it out.
- Keeping the lens in a forgotten document, without bringing it to life.
In conclusion
A well-formulated objective is a powerful lever to guide action, mobilize teams and ensure consistent execution. The SMART+E model provides a simple, yet essential, structure to transform an intention into a clear, motivating, and measurable commitment.
It’s up to you to create your clear and motivating goals!
