As the new year approaches, it’s a natural time to reflect on the progress made in 2024 and plan for 2025. Business owners everywhere are thinking about what’s working, what needs improvement, and, most importantly, how their team has embraced the goals set for the year. But let’s pause for a moment—if we were to interview your team members today, from your delivery and installation crew to your sales team, is there a universal goal they would all point to as a driving force for the waning year’s plan?

Far too often, the hustle and bustle of running a business pushes goal creation—and, unfortunately, execution—into the back seat. When we don’t actively prioritize goals, they fade into the background, becoming an afterthought rather than the guiding force behind day-to-day operations. As you look forward to 2025, what is the one thing your entire team should be focused on, and how do you get everyone on board to know the goal and understand what it looks like to contribute to it daily?

Create Clarity

Setting measurable, actionable goals is the foundation of successful execution. Whether you manage a smaller appliance dealership with a tight-knit team of 10 or a more extensive operation with over 50 employees, one thing remains consistent. Every person, from top leadership to entry-level employees, must understand their role in achieving the company’s objectives. This clarity is the difference between simply showing up and fully engaging in daily tasks with purpose and intention.

Start at the Top

The key lies in creating an environment where goals aren’t just set by leadership but pushed down through the ranks in a way that makes sense to every individual. That means starting with leadership. So, what are your strategic objectives for 2025? Once those are clear, guide your managers in setting specific goals for their areas of operation. Then, it’s time for managers to meet with their teams and identify individual goals. Every team member should clearly understand how their performance contributes to the overall vision.

Make Your Good Employees Great

Not only should these goals be measurable, but you should also have a clear path to recognize when they’re achieved. Metrics of success might include improving delivery times, reducing installation errors, or enhancing customer satisfaction on the showroom floor. Goals bring focus, and a noticeable shift occurs when everyone knows how to hit the mark. Good employees who show up daily and put in the work, can be transformed into great employees who understand their impact, take ownership of their roles, and are recognized for their contributions.

Ultimately, it comes down to this: You plan, you execute, and you achieve. If the plan fails, you adjust. But without clearly defined goals, neither achievement nor meaningful improvement will happen. A sophisticated business model starts with leadership defining the big picture, guiding managers to develop department-specific goals, and aligning individual team members to contribute. The result? A harmony and level of improvement that can move your business forward in ways you never thought possible. Make 2025 the year where goals don’t just exist—they drive action, fuel growth, and create lasting success.