Career Planning

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SMART Action Plan

The purpose of an action plan is to clarify goals, list the steps to achieve those goals, and

identify the resources required. Action plans can be written for individuals, groups, or

organizations.

A SMART action plan should include both long-term and short-term goals. Long-term goals

could take five years or more; short-term goals are usually achievable within a year or less.

SMART Goals

To create SMART goals, start with a list of broad goals, then break them down into

specific, manageable pieces. The final goals specified in the action plan must be as follows:

Specific: Each goal must be clear, focused, and unambiguous. State exactly what you want to

accomplish, who is involved in the effort, and where the action will occur. Avoid generalities and be as detailed as you can. If necessary, state why the goal is important.

Measurable: A SMART goal is a goal for change that can be measured quantitatively.

Specify how you will know when the desired change has occurred and what criteria you will use to measure progress.

Attainable: The goal must be achievable. To ensure the goal is attainable, describe how

the goal will be accomplished. That is, what strategies will you use?

Realistic: The goal must be capable of being achieved given available resources. Set goals

that are challenging but not impossible. Goals should adequately and accurately address the scope of the problem and be reasonable.

Time Bound: The goal must have a target date or series of target dates. Set a deadline for

accomplishing your goal and establish interim milestones to help yourself stay on track and accountable.