One of the most important keys to organizational progress and learning how to be successful in business is setting clear goals. Before you begin another business year, plan and write down a set of clear goals that your team can work towards achieving.

Be specific on what each person is expected to contribute. These goals will serve as your blueprint and map to success.

Once everyone in the team understands and appreciates their role in the plan, then it’s time to get started. It is essential to keep everyone motivated towards achieving your goals.  Success will depend on each person moving towards achieving their individual goals, so the team can achieve it’s team goals. 

Here is how to encourage your team to work towards the goals they have set:

Revisit the goals

Every now and then, make sure to review the goals you have set with each team member. Check their progress and ask about the challenges or barriers that are holding them back.   Do they need additional resources or training?  Don’t jump to thinking you need to change the goal.  Find out what they need to achieve the goal as defined,  and help them get it.

Create a culture that promotes progress

Start building a culture that will keep the energy going. As a leader, make sure you are seen by your team as someone who sets goals and follows through, no matter what.  Keep your promises and commitments to them.  If you don’t follow through the team will be tempted to abandon the target you have set for them.

Provide regular feedback

Gather your team regularly to provide feedback on everyone’s progress. Give suggestions on areas that need improvement. Acknowledge individuals that are demonstrating hard work and commitment to their goals.  And don’t forget to acknowledge the team effort.  

Encourage creativity

Allow your staff to exercise creativity in reaching their goals. Give them room to be innovative and make decisions.  When they make mistakes look at it as a chance to grow and learn. By giving them space to take responsibility, they are able to learn and grow as professionals. 

Expand a person’s potential

One of the best ways to motivate staff to keep working towards intended goals is by expanding their skills and potential. When possible, allow them the opportunity to get the necessary training they need to be better at what they do.  Identify a mentor within the organization for them to work with who may be on a different project or department. 

There is no magic formula that will teach you how to be successful.  However, if there’s one thing that experience has taught me, it’s that your ability to set goals for yourself and others is a major contributing factor in success.

For most people developing a plan and creating goals is onerous, challenging, and downright frustrating.  It doesn’t have to be though.  

Download The Dos and Don’ts of Planning.  It’s full of information that will help you and make planning easier.