You are here:  Home  Blog  Blog Details

Thursday 17th May 2012

Be SMART, Ladies

Blog Archive

Be SMART, Ladies

Posted by Guest Blogger 15 December 2011 Business |  Careers |  Guest blogger |  Technology |  Women |  Women in business Information Technology has long been a male-dominated industry. However, recent years are bringing about a trend of more women in the sector. For women currently in IT, or those interested in getting started, SMART goals can be a great tool for helping women get an IT career started, or propel those already in the industry, while changing the male-dominated trend.

SMART goals are similar to regular goals, but more successful because of their attention to detail, individual steps and time-sensitivity. Rather than a general statement like, “I want to lose weight,” a SMART goal has some specificity and other characteristics tied to it. “I want to lose 10 pounds this month by running one mile per day and reducing my calorie count by 400” is an example of a SMART goal.

If you don't have a Specific plan in place, how can you expect to know whether a goal is being reached? The goal should have some benchmarks associated with it that can define progress (Measurable). Make sure the individual steps and the end-goal are Actionable and Realistic, which further aid in keeping track of your progress. Since the Time-sensitive element of SMART goals gives you a deadline, you'll always know when you should be working harder or putting in more effort.

Example #1 - For Women Interested in Entering the IT Field

“I will start my entry into the IT sector by the end of this month by enrolling in IT Service Management training classes, speaking to an IT professional, and gaining experience by volunteering at my church and helping them fix their recent computer issues.”

This goal is quite specific (getting into IT through enrollment, volunteering and learning from IT professionals). It’s measurable, as you can see whether you’re progressing in the one month time frame with the specific steps outlined. The goal is actionable - get out there and start enrolling, making phone calls, and learning as much as you can. Realistically speaking, the goal is absolutely doable and it falls within a time frame that keeps you moving forward.

Example #2 - For Women Seeking to Advance Their IT Career

“I will enhance my IT knowledge, skills and marketability within two years by earning my Master of Science in Information Technology and applying these skills within my company.”

Again, this is Specific and Time Sensitive (in the next four weeks I will enhance my knowledge and marketability). You’ll be able to measure progress of the actionable items (either you’ve enrolled in certification classes and are studying, or you haven’t). It is a realistic goal, as there isn’t anything about the statement that cannot be done.

When making sure your goals follow the SMART model, you’re setting yourself up for success.

While your male counterparts are focusing on beating each other to the punch, you'll be making actionable and realistic goals that will position you front and center in the IT world.

University Alliance provided this article on behalf of Villanova University and their online programs. Villanova’s online programs can help to diversify your skill set and help improve your marketability.
Delicious
Submit
1 comment
It's much eisaer to understand when you put it that way!
Posted by Tangie, Date 30 January 2012, 02:14 PM
Add new comment
*
*
*

Latest Jobs

  • Service Desk Technician

    The Technology Services and Development (TS&D) Support department provides technology support and service delivery to BBC Monitoring. The team consists of the service desk providing call logging services and 1st and... More

  • Java Developer

    Overview: Java developer required for Rates Cash Trade Processing platform. This role would involve strong real time development and object oriented skills and a proven ability to turn high level specification into high... More

  • FI Research Web / Java Developer

    Role / Principal Accountabilities: A strong Java developer with a strong background in web development is required to work closely with Nomura’s front office Fixed Income Research... More

  • eCommerce Java Senior Developer

    The FX eTrading team are looking for a hands-on experienced Java developer to work in close partnership with the quant desk. The primary focus for this role will be on writing systems which directly benefit the eFX... More

  • Enterprise Architect

    Are you ready to seize an opportunity to work with established and innovative enterprises in a long-term relationship?  Looking to work closely with top Line of Business and IT Executives in large Enterprises... More

Job search

Job search