Getting Focused in 2011...Social Media and more!

I often talk about how setting goals for Social Media efforts is a key factor for optimizing participation. I think the same can be said about anything in life. By setting goals you are managing expectations for yourself.

United States Marine Corps says:
"Discipline is the instant willingness and obedience to all orders, respect for authority, self reliance and teamwork. The ability to do the right thing even when no one is watching or suffer the consequences of guilt which produces pain in our bodies, through pain comes discipline."


That is a very dramatic statement but getting yourself focused and ready to take on the New Year is more than just the resolutions we make and steps we take towards our goals, it is the AFDI solution! (Actually Freaking Do It) I removed the expletive to stay PG.

This past week was the beginning of a dream/goal coming true for me. Having a featured column at AllAccess.com called, "SocialMediology 101". Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday I post tips, then Wednesdays a full blog post done in a more editorial, instructional and/or entertaining way; filled with all the Jess-isms and simple advice I give clients.

Setting goals for yourself is a powerful way to make things happen! I believe that it is more than making vague statements like, "I want a new job" or "I need more business." It means creating a written plan that includes reasonable and measurable long-term and short-term objectives. It means setting SMART goals. I found this wonderful acronym from Annette Richmond who wrote, "Stop Dreaming and Start Doing"

Lots of people use the SMART acronym to explain goal setting. Each one uses a slightly different set of criteria. In this case, S.M.A.R.T. refers to goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time Framed. I use the Get a G.R.A.S.P. for Social Media: Goals, Reach, ABCs, Socialality, Promotion. I think the Acronym SMART crosses some of the same points but it laser focused to help you set obtainable goals and measure the value and probability of the actions!

"Specific: Goals need to be something specific. Often we set goals that are so loose, it's nearly impossible to judge whether we hit them or not. For example, a statement like "I will lose weight" is too vague. How will you know if and when you've reached your goal? Saying, " I will lose five pounds this month" is more specific. At the end of the month it will be a simple matter of weights and measures: take your measurements and get on the scale.

Measurable: Goals need to be measurable. For example, many of us want to increase our number of contacts. But, "making new contacts" is an ambiguous statement. A clearer objective is "I will attend four networking events each month and try to connect with one person at each." It's a simple, concrete goal. This makes it easy to see if you hit your target.

Achievable: Goals need to be reasonable and achievable. Nearly everyone has tried to drop a few pounds at one time or another. Often their success or failure depends on setting practical goals. Losing 15 pounds in 30 days is unrealistic (unless you're planning a medical procedure). Losing six to eight pounds in 30 days is reasonable. Don't set yourself up for failure by setting goals that are out of reach.

Realistic: Goals need to be realistic. When we're kids we think we can do anything. As adults we learn that while we can have a lot, we can't have it all at the same time. It's important to honestly evaluate yourself. Do you have the ability and commitment to make your dream come true? Or does it need a little adjustment? For example, you may love to play tennis, but do you have the time, talent and commitment to become a pro? Be honest.

Time Framed: Goals need to have a time frame. Having a set amount of time will give your goals structure. For example, many of us want to find a new job or start their own business. Some people spend a lot of time talking about what they want to do, someday. But, without an end date there is no sense of urgency, no reason to take any action today. Having a specific time frame gives you the impetus to get started. It also helps you monitor your progress."

Good Luck in 2011! I hope all your dreams come true! If you are so inclined I am nominated for a Shorty Award, I would be so grateful if you would vote for me! Here is the link: http://shortyawards.com/JessicaNorthey?category=socialmedia you have to be sure put something after the "because" or it doesn't count.
Thanks in advance!