The Good Manager’s Guide

This is a book that contains 77 practical checklists for day-to-day management

Author: Trevor Boutall

In section managing Teams and Individuals the following is a good set of checklist for Setting Objectives.

SETTING OBJECTIVES

  1. Involve staff in Setting Objectives – Ask staff to be proactive in identifying what their objectives should be
  2. Set Clear Objectives – agree SMART objectives with your staff which are

    3. Specific – be precise about what must be achieved
    Measurable – how will you know if it has been achieved
    Agreed – by you, the member of staff and the team
    Realistic – objectives have to be achievable
    Time-buond – to be completed by a specified time.

  3. Explain objectives clearly – when explaining objectives, think about the person you are talking to, and make sure you communicate with them in a manner and at a pace which is appropriate
  4. Encourage staff to seek clarification – check on their understanding and give them opportunities to ask questions
  5. Update Objectives regularly – review objectives as often as appropriate in the light of changes to individual and team workloads and organisational priorities.
  6. Check that objectives have been achieved – as part of the objective-setting process, agree the date when you will review with your staff whether the objectives have been achieved.
  7. Provide Feedback – both formally and informally which includes constructive suggestions and encouragement for improving future performance.