Examples of SMART Goal Statements

Vague Goal Statement: I want my job to be a good fit.

SMART Goal Statement: By the end of November of [insert year], I will be in a position that fits with my Myers Briggs Type Indicator (e.g. ENFJ), utilizes my top ten transferable skills, fits my top five career values, correlates with my top 5 passions, provides for the top five work environment preferences I have (e.g. short commute, open concept office, matrix management style, natural light in work area and perfume free environment). I will join a job search club, research to create a list of 50 companies that fit with my good fit profile and participate in ten or more networking events.

Vague Goal Statement: I will take some professional development courses.

SMART Goal Statement: By January 1st of [insert year], I will have researched and decided on five courses I want to complete over a three year period. I will register in my first course to start September of [insert year]. My course plan fits with my five year career plan and I will have determined a budget and gathered the financial resources and family support in place prior to January 1st [insert same year as above].

Vague Goal Statement: I want a raise.

SMART Goal Statement: By December 1st of [insert year], I will have positioned myself to ask for a raise of a minimum of 10% of my salary by cutting my department's budget by 10% and increasing my departments sales by 10%.