Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Critical Path Method • Performance Metrics • Scrum

Management by Objectives

Term from Management industry explained for recruiters

Management by Objectives (MBO) is a way of running teams and organizations where managers and employees work together to set clear goals. Instead of just telling people what to do, this method involves having conversations about what needs to be achieved and agreeing on specific targets. It's like creating a roadmap that everyone understands and agrees to follow. This approach was made popular by Peter Drucker and is used by many companies to make sure everyone is working towards the same goals. Similar approaches include OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) and SMART goal setting. Think of it as a structured way to make sure everyone knows what success looks like in their job.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented Management by Objectives program across 5 departments, improving team performance by 30%

Led team of 15 using MBO principles to achieve quarterly targets

Trained managers in Management by Objectives techniques and goal-setting processes

Typical job title: "Management Professionals"

Also try searching for:

Manager Team Leader Department Head Performance Manager Business Manager Operations Manager Project Manager HR Manager

Where to Find Management Professionals

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

• LinkedIn Management Groups
• Reddit r/management

Learning Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement an MBO system in a company that has never used it before?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss gradual implementation, starting with pilot teams, training managers, setting clear timelines, and having a system to track progress. Should mention importance of buy-in from all levels and regular review processes.

Q: How do you handle resistance to MBO implementation?

Expected Answer: Should discuss communication strategies, showing benefits through examples, addressing concerns proactively, and providing proper training and support. Experience with change management is important.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for setting objectives with team members?

Expected Answer: Should describe collaborative goal-setting, ensuring objectives are measurable and aligned with company goals, and regular check-ins to monitor progress.

Q: How do you measure the success of MBO implementation?

Expected Answer: Look for answers about tracking key performance indicators, employee satisfaction surveys, goal achievement rates, and improved team performance metrics.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of a good objective in MBO?

Expected Answer: Should mention SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) and explain why each component matters.

Q: How often should objectives be reviewed and updated?

Expected Answer: Should discuss regular review cycles (quarterly/monthly), importance of flexibility, and how to adjust objectives based on changing business needs.