How Purpose Drives Goal-Setting

As a manager, you (and your team) need to answer the question “Where are we going?” in order to be successful in setting goals.

For you to be able to answer this question, though, you first need to know the purpose of the team. How does your team contribute to the organization’s goals? After knowing this, you can set goals that will move your team toward this purpose.

Although it’s important to get your team’s input while creating a purpose, the organization’s goals will give you a general idea of the direction your team should take. It’s energizing to be a part of a purposeful and engaged team that is creating something great for the organization!

• What is your idea of your team’s purpose? What are you trying to create and accomplish as a team?
• How does this contribute to the organization’s goals?
• What is each team member’s role? How are these members an important part of the team’s story? List them all and how their role and experience fit into the team’s story.

How will you connect your team members to the team’s purpose? When we connect team members to the team’s purpose, productivity and efficiency skyrocket. As a manager, one of your roles is to help team members personally connect with the team’s goals.

While creating your team’s purpose, there are some critical points to remember: 

1. Brainstorm with your team for buy-in and commitment. Hold a meeting in which your team can brainstorm a compelling purpose together. Ensure you communicate any non negotiables to your team and that everyone on the team has input and the opportunity to influence the team’s purpose.
2. Provide inspirational value. Your purpose should serve others and make a difference in the world. Help your team connect to a meaningful purpose that is bigger than themselves.
3. Give everyone a starring role in the story. People are always creating stories. If you are not intentional about ensuring everyone plays a starring role, people will make up counterproductive stories.

Using these tips can set you on a path to accomplishing all your organization’s goals.