Final answer:
Marco should start by having a candid discussion with his boss about the unachievable goals, suggesting a revised, realistic set of goals using the SMART criteria. He should remain professional and optimistic, document all communications, and respond proactively to feedback while demonstrating a willingness to go above and beyond.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Marco Should Address Unachievable Goals Set by His Boss
If Marco is given targets by his boss that he knows are unachievable, he should approach the situation professionally and proactively. Marco will need to communicate effectively to manage expectations. First, he should attempt to have a candid conversation with his boss about the goals. During this discussion, Marco can present a more realistic set of goals, perhaps using the SMART criteria—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—to explain how the targets could be adjusted to be more achievable. If the conversation does not lead to a compromise, Marco should look to remain optimistic and aim to demonstrate a willingness to go above and beyond. He should also stay accountable, be professional in response to feedback, and try to offer feasible solutions to achieve what is possible within the given constraints.
Moreover, Marco should document all communications and plans, including the reasons why the initial goals might be unachievable and any alternative proposals he presents. This record will be valuable for future discussions and performance appraisals. In addition, it is important that Marco respond professionally to feedback, identifying which areas he can work on, what adjustments can be made to his approach, and how he can contribute to the organization's mission while respecting his manager's authority.