Goal Setting in 3 Easy Steps

Updated: Aug. 31, 2017  |  Categories: StarChapter Admin, Fundraising, Goal Setting  

Associations, and their leaders, face an ever-changing landscape, which requires an on-going goal setting endeavor. There is never a perfect time to lead a change in both an association and its management style, so why not now? 

But what are some good goals for chapters? And how can you ensure they actually happen?

Step 1: Set Goals for Success.

Selecting goals is a difficult task that can seem overwhelming for anyone, especially when going beyond the personal level to goals aimed at chapter growth and success. Ultimately, it is best to set realistic goals with incremental levels to track success.

Some realistic goals can include:

• Raise membership by an appropriate amount each month based on your total membership count.
• Increase attendance at the annual conference by a certain percentage as compared to the previous year.
• Improve financial stability through sponsorship efforts.
• Expand local chapter reputation through public relations and email campaigns.

Obviously, your goals should fit the needs of the organization. Check out some additional ideas for possible revenue related goals by reading this article.

Local chapter leaders who use StarChapter, can track their goal progress year-round through specialized tools and reports built into the system.

Step 2: Publicly Announce Goals For Accountability, Then Follow Through.

Once you have established your goals, it is best to publicly state them for accountability, then put the plans into action for completion. There are many levels of public and some goals may not be suited for announcement on your local chapter website. For instance, it may be better to keep the goal of increasing membership numbers “public” within the board or certain committees, while a desire to have 10% more attendees at the annual conference may be included on the chapter website or sent out in newsletters via mass email. 

Once accountability for goal completion is established, then you put into practice whatever strategy you have in place to accomplish the goals. Read this article that covers the ways to set up and implement the strategy.

Step 3: Plan for the Future.

The ultimate purpose for setting goals is to plan for the future. As an association, you want to have longevity, to have membership thrive and grow, and to provide a positive room for growth. Your goals should be in line with a long term plan. Depending on the size and mission of the organization, you can create a 2 year plan or a 5 year plan.

With planning for the future, you must remember to be realistic and flexible, as you may need to adjust aspects of the long term plans based short-term results. Additionally, as industry, profession, or economic conditions evolve, it might impact the goals of the organization.

Your path to that success begins now with the goals you have set for the future. If you are a StarChapter customer, reach out the StarChapter Support Team and we’ll help you navigate through the system to ensure your goals will be met this year. Not a customer yet? Ask for a demo today and make this a successful year for your organization.

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