Final answer:
The first step in management by objectives is discussing possible goals. This involves setting clear, specific, achievable, and relevant goals that can be executed over time and tracked for progress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in management by objectives (MBO) is c. Discussing possible goals. This stage is essential as it involves the collaboration between management and employees to identify clear, achievable, and appropriate goals for the organization and individual team members. Once the goals are agreed upon, they can then be broken down into actionable steps with target dates, ensuring progress can be monitored effectively. Discussing possible goals lays the foundation for all subsequent steps in the MBO process, such as developing operational plans, reviewing progress towards goal achievement, and adjusting strategies as needed.
When discussing potential goals, it's important to consider who is involved, what needs to be accomplished, where any activities need to take place, when objectives should be achieved, and why they are important. This level of detail helps to create specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, which are more likely to be successfully achieved.