[amygoertzen]

I'm in the middle of setting some 2009 goals for my job and have no idea where to start. I'm an executive assistant for a VP at an insurance company...but really that shouldn't matter as most assistants do the same work...

Both my boss and I are completely lost when it comes to my goals - he's never had an assistant before, and I've never been one.

Can anyone give me an idea of what types of goals I should be setting for myself in 2009 and beyond? The only thing I can think of: are educational goals (ie. taking an excel course to increase my knowledge of the program).

Thanks!

[Jackeline]

Hi,

I set goals every year. Some of them stay the same because I always look for ways to improve them each year, but I always try to add 1 or 2 more goals.

To get some ideas of creating goals, take a look at what you do on a regular basis. For example, I schedule evaluations; my goal in this area is to improve the process to ensure all documents, such as evaluation forms, are received in a timely manner. My boss cannot evaluate an individual without the form so I need to make sure she gets the forms in time.

It's also good to be specific with your goals as well. For example, you may have a goal that says 'Provide support to my boss'. Being specific not only helps you to accomlish the goal with realistic measures, but let's you know HOW you're going to accomplish them.

It's also good to create short-term goals, like the excel course you will be taking, and long-term goals. Long-term goals can be going back to school to get a degree.

Hope this helps!

Your goals should relate to what your boss is doing. What are your boss's goals and objectives? Try to match yours up to his or hers. You also have your own goals to improve on your skills etc. You might also have goals of improving on some work functions you are doing.

Patricia
Laughing All the Way to Work: A Survival Blog for Today's Administrative Assistant