Final answer:
The first goal-setting skill is to write down the goal, which serves as a base for developing an action plan and staying motivated. An effective goal should be SMART and include specific details regarding the 5 W's. Setting career goals and action steps helps maintain focus and flexibility in one's career progression.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first goal-setting skill is to write down the goal. Writing down a goal is an essential step as it provides a tangible reminder of what you are working towards. It allows for more clarity and serves as a motivational tool to keep you on track towards reaching your objective, such as a career target. Once the goal is written down, developing an action plan should follow, listing the steps necessary to achieve the goal and setting a target date for those actions to help monitor progress.
With your goal made SMART—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timed—you can start to create an Action Plan to outline the necessary steps to achieve your career aspirations. This plan should include the 5 W's: Who, What, Where, When, and Why, to ensure that your goal is specific and has a clear directive.
Moreover, setting career goals with an action plan can help you stay motivated and adapt to new opportunities as they arise. Always be open to modifying your goals based on your personal development and the ever-changing nature of the job market. Remember to set measurable milestones to track your progress and use these as further encouragement on your career journey.