SMART Career Goals

Start creating your career plan by setting SMART career goals. SMART stands for:

  • Specific: Is the goal well-defined/clear?
  • Measurable: How will I know when I’ve reached the goal?
  • Attainable: Do I have the skills and resources to reach the goal?
  • Relevant: Does this goal align with my career goals?
  • Time-Bound: How much time do I have to accomplish the goal?

The goal “get a job in HR” wouldn’t be considered SMART because it’s not specific or time-bound. Instead, you could write “get hired for a full time, entry level position in HR with benefits after graduation.” Here are a few more examples of SMART goals that would lead you towards getting a job in HR:

  • Complete 3 informational interviews with HR professionals by the end of the term
  • Secure an HR related externship before graduation
  • Update resume highlighting HR related skills and experience before graduation