Part of the HR templates hub. It is free, printable and placeholder-based — read it here, copy the block, or use the print/save-as-PDF button. For the wider practice, see the related employer-operations guides and the HR metrics it supports.
Template overview
The template defines each goal, how success will be measured, the timeframe and owner, and when progress will be reviewed. It keeps goals concrete and connected to the work, and feeds reviews and development plans.
When to use it
- Setting goals for an individual, team or period.
- Translating a plan into measurable goals.
- Aligning on what success looks like and by when.
Who it is for
- Managers setting team or individual goals.
- Employees owning their goals.
- Founders cascading objectives into goals.
Template structure
- Goal — what you are aiming for, specifically.
- Measure — how you will know it’s achieved.
- Timeframe and owner.
- Check-ins — when progress is reviewed.
Printable template
Copy the block below and replace every [bracketed] placeholder. It contains no real names or data — adapt every part to your situation.
Example (placeholder version)
An illustrative version using placeholders only — it shows the kind of content each part holds, with no real employee or company data.
Customisation guidance
- Keep goals specific and measurable — avoid vague intentions.
- Limit the number of goals so focus is real.
- Give each goal one owner and a clear due date.
- Set a check-in cadence so goals are revisited, not forgotten.
Common mistakes
- Goals too vague to know when they’re done.
- Too many goals, so none get real focus.
- No owner or due date.
- Setting goals and never reviewing them.
Export, edit and share documents
Once you have filled in this template, you can export, edit, sign, store and share it as a PDF with the HELPERG PDF Editor — handy for sending a finished document or keeping a clean record.
Free, printable HR resources
Every template here is free and ungated. Grab the matching downloadable checklists too — no signup.