Evolve from S.M.A.R.T. Goals to Impact Outcomes!
The importance of executive support cannot be understated, but there is no one-size-fits-all approach to defining its objectives and goals. Unfortunately, performance appraisals are often viewed as a perfunctory task that yields little benefit for either the employee or the company. Given the crucial nature of executive support, it is imperative to adapt the appraisal process to extract maximum value for all stakeholders involved.
The end goal of performance appraisals is to evaluate an employee's ability to achieve set goals. However, determining the success of executive assistants (EAs) can be a complex and varied process. The standard method of setting SMART goals may not be the most effective solution anymore. It's time to shift our approach and focus on achieving valuable outcomes that benefit both individuals and organizations.
1. The Limitations of SMART Goals
While setting SMART goals has been a popular approach for many years, it's not always the most effective. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. While these descriptors may seem helpful on the surface, their structure is rigid. Following this template can be limiting in that they help to focus only on short-term, quantifiable outcomes rather than the long-term, collective results that arise from one's work.
Certain aspects of the work of executive support professionals are difficult to measure or may not fit so neatly into the SMART framework. For example, relationship-building with stakeholders or fostering a positive work environment cannot always be measured in numerical terms. As a result, the SMART framework can be limiting and unhelpful.
2. The Advantages of Impact Outcomes
On the other hand, impact outcomes focus on the overall impact that the executive support's work has on the organization. Rather than setting specific targets that may or may not be relevant to the organization's objectives, impact outcomes measure the overall effect that the work of this multi-skilled professional has on the organization's success. This approach allows for greater flexibility and acknowledges that executive and personal assistants often have varied roles and responsibilities. By focusing on overall impact, executive support personnel can take a more holistic approach to their work and contribute meaningfully to the organization.
3. The Importance of Executive Support
Implementing impact outcomes requires the support and participation of the executive team. EAs are often the right-hand person to the Executive team, but they need the necessary tools and clear direction to succeed. Collaboration between EAs and executives is essential to align objectives and create a clear path forward. Transparent and open communication can help both parties work towards the same goal and ensure that the EA's impact outcomes are aligned with the organization's overall strategy.
4. Practical Steps Towards Impact Outcomes
Creating impact outcomes for EAs requires a change in mindset. Instead of focusing on specific targets, there should be a focus on how the EA's work contributes to the organization's success. Impact outcomes should align with the organization's overall goals and clearly understand how the assistant's work contributes to these goals. It's essential to have ongoing communication and check-ins to ensure everyone is on the same page and that the assistant's contribution aligns with organizational goals.
5. Embracing Change - Moving Forward
It's time for organizations to move away from using the traditional SMART goals approach for their executive and administrative support professionals. Impact outcomes provide a more effective and practical approach tailored to the unique role of assistants within an organization. By collaborating with executive teams and being transparent and open with communication, they can have a more significant impact on the organization. It's time to embrace change and focus on the impact their work has on their organizations.
Many organizations don't realize the value of their EA talent, resulting in the underutilization of skills. To truly make an impact, boost engagement and quantify achievements, executive support professionals need a flexible and holistic approach - SMART goals alone won't cut it. By embracing change and working closely with executives, assistants can begin to set meaningful impact outcomes that will have a ripple effect in the organization.
Setting Impact Outcomes can revolutionize your work approach. This innovative strategy is a game-changer for executives support professionals, elevating career momentum and success.
Contact us to learn more about implementing this game-changing strategy and unlock the full potential of your executive support team!