How to set SMART PDP goals that actually stick?

If you're unsure about your career, classes, or internships, creating a professional development plan can provide direction. Rather than relying on chance, a PDP encourages proactive measures. PDP goals involve small and workable steps aimed at skill improvement. This blog will explain the SMART method and assist you in setting PDP goals that you can maintain throughout the semester.

Understanding PDP Goals and the SMART Framework

Goals for a professional development plan (PDP) can be seen as a GPS, guiding you to the skills, experiences, and roles that match your career aspirations.

PDP goals are the targets you set for growth, like improving public speaking, learning Python, building a portfolio, or preparing for an internship.

The acronym SMART guides goal creation. It stands for:

Specific: Goals should be clear and detailed.

Measurable: Use numbers to track progress.

Achievable: Goals should be realistic, given available time.

Relevant: Goals should align with your major or interests.

Time-bound: Set deadlines to create a sense of urgency.

Making Goals Specific for Your PDP

To make the most of your Personal Growth Plan, it's key to set goals that are clear and detailed. Goals that lack specifics are easy to lose sight of. Instead, aim for goals that spell out exactly what actions to take, when to take them, and what success looks like.

For example, instead of a general goal like Improve my writing, try something like Complete one essay each week for my English course, and schedule a meeting at the writing centre every Friday.

Ensuring PDP Goals Are Measurable and Achievable

To ensure your professional development plan is both measurable and achievable, consider the following points. Quantifiable metrics can provide tangible evidence of progress and allow for necessary adjustments along the way.

Instead of a generic goal like read more, specify a concrete target, such as read five business books this semester. For tasks like this, tracking progress every week through a simple notes application can be helpful.

It is crucial to formulate realistic goals, given your current workload and commitments. Aim to integrate study periods during available time blocks between classes, rather than scheduling them for times when you are likely to be fatigued, such as after midnight.

Conclusion 

To make your professional development plan actionable, set SMART goals. Ensure these goals are specific, trackable, realistic, relevant, and time-bound. If you need assistance crafting goals aligned with your major and schedule, consider our personalised coaching for plans and accountability. Begin today and see your goals come to fruition.