Setting goals is an annual process at Intertech. If the leaves are changing colors and kids are heading back to school, you can count on the principals at my company gathering together to plot the coming year's corporate goals. Here are the guidelines we follow:

• Limit goals to no more than three, with one identified as the top goal. 
• Make goals measurable so you know when your goal has been met.  
• Assign someone with the proper authority ultimate responsibility for each goal
• Have frequent updates to "shine light" on progress (or lack thereof) toward each goal. 
• Create a theme that ties everyone in the company to the top goal for the year.  
• Hold quarterly offsite meetings to review what's been done and what's next. 

Tom's Takeaway:  Set goals annually; with no more than three per year. Define who is responsible for each goal and make goals measurable. Clearly identify the top company-wide goal, with a corresponding reward if the goal is met. Finally, communicate...communicate...communicate about the goal throughout the year.