Career Corner: Count on accountability to support success

When setting career goals, however large or small, long-term or short-term, the key to ensuring success is accountability. Luckily, goal accountability can take many forms and be structured to best fit your personal style. Here are some ways in which your goals can feel achievable.

Be accountable to yourself

• Write down your goals in achievable steps by using a journal, vision board, checklist, planner, or calendar. Perhaps using an app might be motivating.
• Say your goals out loud to yourself often. Positive self-talk is important and hearing your goals out loud reinforces positivity. Knowing your motivations for achieving your goals keeps you on track.
• Celebrate each little win. Be it revising your resume, attending a career development workshop, or introducing yourself to a new colleague, congratulate yourself on all that you accomplish.

Be accountable to others

• Have an accountability buddy. Whether it’s a friendly co-worker, a colleague from another unit, or a personal friend, an action partner can help you achieve your goals. Ideally, your action partner is on the same journey as you are so you motivate each other or is on the sidelines cheering you on and holding you accountable.
• Find a mentor. A mentor can offer guidance, support, and encouragement in developing the skills of a more junior colleague.
• Discuss your goals with your manager. Start the career conversation with your manager, who is there to help you with your journey. An Individual Development Plan provides structure so you can plan out your goals with a timeline to achieve them.

For further guidance and career development resources, contact GROWyourcareer@yale.edu or visit the Career Development page on Learn and Grow.