We are working together towards setting better, more attainable goals, and we are still exploring the Review portion of the process. As you continue to asses your current goals, take a step back. It is common practice to revisit your mission when goal-setting, but today, we are going to keep looking back at the start of the year. In fact, we are going to take it a step further and look back at the start of the company itself.
This is our recommended micro and macro piece of the review process. Consider your brand story, the emotional, compelling culture you have created to engage customers. It is likely that along with the story, the conception of your company comes to mind. This story – your company’s purpose and beginnings – is an essential piece of the puzzle. It should never be forgotten, even when it comes to business goals.
Your company’s visionary goals should run parallel to the story told day in and day out by your brand. Ask yourself how this year’s goals align themselves with your company story.
Perhaps even more telling is this question: how is your company story told through your current goals? Hopefully, the answer will be easy, painless and on target.
If you find your goals are telling a different story, one that has veered from the course, it might be time to re-examine and start anew. That does not mean your goals or story are wrong, but it might mean that it is time for you to examine the point at which they diverged. Consider your history, and realign your brand story or goals, if necessary, to reflect the different future you envision for the company.
Long-term and short-term goals should maintain a close connection to the principles the company was founded upon. The values that lie at the core of the business, the ones that made it first come to life, should always be present in the goal-setting process. They serve as an important guide, a reminder of where you came from and where you want to go.
If the goals set for your company stay relevant to the story, adhere themselves to its original values, they have a higher likelihood of being adapted naturally within the business. Employees are likely to feel a greater connection to the company if they sense that its core principles never waver. Their work will have more meaning, and though it may seem unlikely, this type of value will make its way to the customer base and probably result in a sales increase. Authenticity is noticeable, and today’s consumers like it.
With some thought and intention, it is not hard to align your goals with your brand story, and doing so will mean greater impact, both internal and external. Good luck!
Image credit: d_pham
(Click here to expand)
