A key part of mentorship is the formal, guided progress. Although the specific outcome of any mentorship relationship will be different and flexible, goal setting can create a plan and guide the work that a mentor and mentee do together.
Setting larger objectives (like getting a specific type of job) can be supported by smaller, short-term goals that can be reviewed and assessed at each mentorship meeting. Goal setting can keep the relationship on track and provide a framework for discussion for what you want to accomplish at each meeting.
Goal setting can keep the relationship on track and provide a framework for discussion.
SMART goals are a common concept used to set goals that are meaningful and help you make real progress.
Specific: Set goals that have a clear end target. It is better to set many small, clear goals than one large general goal.
Measurable: Use numbers or targets to help you be specific about what you want to accomplish.
Achievable: Set goals where you control the outcome, not ones that are reliant on the action or decisions of other people.
Realistic: Set goals that you have the skills, time, and ability to meet.
Time: Set a time for when you expect to reach the goal. Setting a deadline will push you to meet it.
An example of SMART goals related to your job search could be:
I will attend 3 industry networking events this month.
I will ask at least 1 person from each event to meet for an informational interview.
Setting goals between each mentoring meeting will push you to move forward in your job search.
These goals are clear and achievable. Setting goals like these between each mentoring meeting will push you to move forward in your job search and can be designed to help your search wherever you are at. Write down the goals you plan to work on before the next meeting with your mentor. When you write them down:
- You are more likely to reach your goals.
- You will have a plan for your job search.
- You and your mentor can hold you accountable for working on your goals.
- If you have challenges reaching your goals, you and your mentor can look at what is preventing you from reaching your goals and adjust your plan.
- You will have a record of your success when you complete your goals.
Download our SMART Goal Setting Worksheet to help you set your own goals.