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Being able to set clear and specific objectives is crucial for anyone not just leaders or managers, and for anyone in a management position this specific competency is a must for achieving measurable results and success on the job.

This is a simple yet important activity that complements any management or leadership skills training that involves setting proper objectives.

This activity can be done individually or in groups, simply flip chart the example in the frame below to explain the proper way of writing objectives. Print and handout the vague desires listed below for skill practice. 

Directions: Change the following vague desire to a specific objective

Vague desire: Productivity improvement

Specific objective:

I will                     +                            +                           +   

        -----------           ---------------           ---------------                ---------------

     action verb          targeted area        measurement         target date

Directions: Change the following vague desire to a specific objective

Vague desire: Cost reduction

Specific objective:

I will                     +                            +                           +   

    ---------------         ---------------          ---------------         --------------

     action verb          targeted area        measurement         target date

Directions: Change a vague desire to a specific objective

Vague desire:

I will                     +                            +                         +   

    ---------------         ----------------         ---------------                 ---------------

     action verb          targeted area        measurement         target date