SMART Goals

A successful mentorship starts by making sure you and your partner agree on how their relationship will function and what you want to achieve during the year. During your first meeting talk about how you want to communicate, when you would like to meet, and set goals you want to accomplish.

Goal setting is an important part of the mentorship process because it will help you focus on what you want to get out of the partnership. Goal setting might also be new to you, and that's ok. One way to create a good goal is to make it SMART:

Specific: The goal statement should be concrete and action-oriented. What specifically are you trying to accomplish?

Measurable: How will you know when you have achieved the goal? How will you track and measure progress? How is success defined?

Achievable: The goal should require work, but be attainable. Is the goal too big or too small?

Realistic: Do you have the ability and commitment to reach the goal? What additional resources of time, money, or capability will be needed to reach the goal?

Timely: There should be a specific time-frame for achieving the goal.

Go beyond "get an internship" and attach actionable steps you and your mentor can take to accomplish it like reviewing your resume and conducting a practice interview. If you're not sure how to break down a goal into actionable items, ask your mentor for their advice.

Potential areas of focus for goal setting:

  • Identify and work on developing specific skills relevant to the industry
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Develop communication skills
  • Explore personal interests and abilities
  • Learn and practice effective networking skills in a professional setting
  • Develop organizational skills
  • Explore future career paths and opportunities
  • Develop and refine professional etiquette
  • Practice resume and cover letter writing or interview skills
  • Enhance online professional presence, including LinkedIn and other industry-specific platforms

SMART Goal Examples

1. Enhance Professional Network

Specific: Expand my professional network by connecting with at least 5 industry professionals through my mentor's contacts.

Measurable: Achieve at least one meaningful connection or conversation each month over the next 5 months.

Achievable: Use my mentor's introductions and LinkedIn to reach out and schedule informational interviews or attend industry events.

Relevant: Building a strong professional network is crucial for career development and gaining insights into the industry.

Time-Bound: Complete these connections within the next 5 months.

2. Career Path Planning

Specific: Create a detailed career development plan with actionable steps and milestones, guided by my mentor's insights and experience.

Measurable: Outline at least three career goals and the steps needed to achieve them, including necessary skills, experiences, and networking.

Achievable: Regular meetings with my mentor to review progress and adjust the plan as needed.

Relevant: Having a clear career plan will provide direction and motivation, ensuring I stay focused on long-term objectives.

Time-Bound: Finalize the career development plan within the next 3 months and begin executing the outlined steps.

3. Secure an Industry-Relevant Internship

Specific: Obtain a summer internship in a company within my field of study that aligns with my career goals.

Measurable: Apply to at least 10 internships, secure at least 5 interviews, and receive at least 1 offer.

Achievable: Leverage my mentor's network for referrals, attend career fairs, utilize university career services, and tailor my resume and cover letters for each application.

Relevant: Gaining practical experience through an internship will enhance my skills, provide industry exposure, and improve my employability after graduation.

Time-Bound: Secure the internship by the end of the current academic year.