We all have individual goals, but what about team goals? When teams share common goals, staffers can grow from individual workers into a cohesive and unified team. Setting team goals can give everyone a sense of purpose and foster a culture of hard work. These kinds of goals can also bring people together and encourage a spirit of communication and collaboration.

Not sure how to set team goals? We’ve got you covered. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we’re highlighting a post from the Range blog that explains some best practices and tips for establishing effective team goals.

1. Look at the big picture. Whether you work in sales, marketing, human resources or another area, you should always consider your company’s overall direction and objections. Sit down with leaders in other departments to ensure everyone is on the same page. The Range post says once you have a feel for how your team can work toward the company’s goals, you’ll know how to better move forward.

2. Make your goals SMART. Just like establishing individual goals, it’s important to set SMART goals for your team. Make your goals Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Realistic and Timely.

3. Let team members set their individual goals. Once you’ve set your team goals, the Range post advises letting individuals set their own goals. Most people appreciate working toward organizational goals while improving themselves in the process.

4. Build a realistic timeline and set deadlines. Find out from your team members what’s currently on their plate and any constraints they may be facing. According to the Range post, once you define a target deadline, you can create timelines with smaller, individual goals and milestones.

5. Keep your team accountable. One way to do this is by setting regular progress meetings. The Range post recommends sitting down with your team members and discussing everyone’s progress and where they may need help. This keeps the team updated and helps improve individual accountability.

6. Strive for improvement. Check in as your team progresses toward its goal. Reflect on what went well and where your team may need to improve. The Range post says this will empower employees to learn from mistakes and be more successful next time.

Setting team goals doesn’t mean employees won’t be working toward their individual goals – the two are interrelated. Individual and team goals both serve different purposes and provide direction, motivation and focus. If you want to set or revisit your team’s goals, follow the guide above.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: The Range blog. Range is a team communication tool for check-ins and meeting management.