At the start of the year, many of us set ambitious goals with excitement and determination. But as we approach the end of the first quarter, it’s the perfect time to check in, reassess, and make any necessary adjustments.
Back in January to my email subscribers, I introduced the concept of goal setting with a twist—a strategy focused not just on setting and communicating goals but also on translating them into meaningful, engaging objectives for teams and individuals. Now, as March draws to a close, let’s take a moment to reflect on progress and make sure we’re on track.
The Twist: Translating Goals by Connecting the Dots
Setting goals is one thing—keeping them relevant and motivating is another. Too often, organizations cascade high-level goals down to employees without truly connecting the dots between those goals and everyday work. That’s where translation comes in. It’s about helping individuals see how their daily tasks contribute to the bigger picture.
Back in January, I recommended three key steps:
- Have a Conversation – Groundbreaking, right? Hear me out. Talk with your team members about their goals instead of simply assigning them. Discuss how their contributions matter.
- Ask What Matters to Them – Understanding their motivations can help align goals with personal interests, increasing engagement.
- Challenge Them to Set Goals – Encourage team members to draft their own objectives tied to company priorities, giving them a sense of ownership.
These steps ensure that goals feel relevant, rather than just another checkbox on a performance review.
The Q1 Check-In: Where Do You Stand?
Three months in, now is the time to take stock. Here’s how you can conduct a meaningful check-in:
- Review Progress – What goals have been met, and where are you falling behind? Are the targets still realistic, or do they need refinement? What is most important right now and going forward?
- Assess Engagement – Are team members still motivated by their goals? If enthusiasm is waning, it may be time to realign objectives with their interests. Or, call in reinforcements – who else can help or shift the workaround to get a fresh perspective and create new momentum.
- Reinforce the Vision – Reiterate why these goals matter. Remind yourself and your team of the bigger purpose behind the work.
Adjust, Don’t Abandon
If you’re not as far along as you hoped, don’t get discouraged. Progress isn’t always linear. Instead of scrapping goals, make adjustments. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. Celebrate wins—no matter how small—and keep moving forward.
As we head into Q2, let’s refine our approach, stay adaptable, and ensure that the goals we set at the start of the year remain meaningful and achievable. Here’s to a strong second quarter!
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Gia Hunter has 20 years of Human Resources experience, including talent development, talent acquisition, compliance, engagement, people operations, career counseling, and conflict management strategies. She is a highly skilled and experienced HR professional dedicated to helping businesses succeed.
