Final answer:
Middle managers are primarily responsible for setting Tactical Goals, which are short-term and aimed at implementing upper management's strategies. These goals should be achievable, relevant to the organization's overall objectives, and have specific deadlines.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goals that apply to middle management are primarily Tactical Goals. Unlike strategic goals which are set by top management and focus on long-term company objectives, tactical goals are more short-term and focus on how to operationalize the strategies set by upper management into actionable plans. Middle managers are responsible for developing and implementing these plans within their departments or teams. The goals should be achievable and time-bound, ensuring they support the overarching strategic goals and can be completed in a specific timeframe.
To make the goals achievable, middle managers will need to assess realistic and attainable outcomes, considering potential barriers and how they can be overcome. In terms of being relevant, the goals must align with and support other objectives within the organization, ensuring a cohesive approach to achieving the company's mission and vision. Lastly, ensuring goals are time-bound provides a clear deadline or target date for completion, which is essential for creating urgency and measuring progress.