Looking for work can feel overwhelming, especially when things aren’t moving as quickly as you’d like. It can be difficult to stay motivated when progress feels slow, but setting small, achievable goals can make a big difference.
SMART goals are a helpful way to bring structure, focus and momentum into your job search. Read along to learn what SMART goals are, why they’re helpful, and some examples you can apply to your own job search.
What are SMART goals?
SMART is a simple tool to help you turn big ideas into clear, manageable steps. A SMART goal is:
- Specific – What exactly do you want to do?
- Measurable – How will you know when it’s done?
- Achievable – Is it realistic for where you’re at right now?
- Relevant – Does it connect with your bigger goals?
- Time-based – When will you do it by?
When you’re job hunting, SMART goals can help you stay on track and feel a sense of progress as you cross tasks off your list.
Why SMART goals are helpful
Job searching can feel like a full-time job in itself. You might be applying for roles, updating your resume, practising for interviews, or even learning new skills. Without a plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
SMART goals give your efforts direction. They help break down big, uncertain tasks into something more manageable. Instead of saying “I need to find a job,” you might set a goal like, “I will update my resume by Friday” or “I will apply for three jobs by the end of the week.”
This kind of goal-setting can improve your confidence, give you a sense of control, and help you build helpful habits over time.
Examples of SMART job search goals
Here are a few examples of how you can apply SMART goals to different parts of your job search:
Building skills
- I will complete an online resume workshop by the end of the month.
- I will finish one module of a free online course each week.
Applying for jobs
- I will apply for three roles that match my skills every week.
- I will update my cover letter for each new job I apply for.
Interview prep
- I will practise two mock interviews this month with a friend or support worker.
- I will write down answers to five common interview questions by next Friday.
Staying motivated and accountable
Even when you have a clear goal, it’s completely normal to feel unmotivated at times. It’s human to want to avoid things that feel uncomfortable, but gently facing those challenges at a pace that feels right for you can help rebuild your confidence.
It also helps to check in with how you’re speaking to yourself. Are your thoughts supportive or critical? Practising positive self-talk can make a big difference to how you feel.
These tips can help you stay on track:
- Track your progress – Keep a notebook or digital checklist to tick off your goals
- Celebrate small wins – Every step counts, even taking time to write a list of your strengths or update just one part of your resume
- Get support – Share your goals with a friend, employment consultant or mentor who can check in with you
- Review and adjust – If something isn’t working, that’s okay. Goals can be flexible
Connecting goals to your values
The most powerful goals are the ones that reflect your values — the things that matter most to you.
Ask yourself: Why am I setting this goal? What will it help me move toward?
When your goals feel meaningful and connected to something bigger, it’s easier to stay motivated, even when things feel tough.
This is called committed action – doing what matters, even when it feels uncomfortable. It’s one way to build confidence, resilience and long-term progress.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re starting your job search for the first time or getting back into it after a break, SMART goals can help you stay focused, motivated and clear on your next steps.
At WISE, we can work with you to set personalised goals and support you through the ups and downs of job searching. Learn more about how our Occupational Rehabilitation services can help you take the next step.