I am developing a program for a group of administrative leaders for the Bio-Med division of my university. While there are very clear goals in place for both the university and the division, this group has never formalized goals. I want to start with an activity that illustrates:
1. Identifying clear goals results in a stronger outcome.
2. Sharing goals with the other members of the group helps everyone be more effective.

Since this is a serious group, I would like for this activity to be fun and could also be useful for team building since this is a newly formed team. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

Are these "administrative leaders" unaware of the two things you wish to illustrate? These two things you've listed are good WIIFMs to suggest to participants...but they are not where you should focus your actual activities.

If the point is for them to create formal goals, then that is where the focus should be.

Since this is a serious group, I wouldn't waste their time with a "fun" activity. I would get straight to the point.

I have done an activity where the group comes up with a collaborative goal that is used as demonstration, and then create an activity around the SMART goal method (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, timely). Have the group run their demo goal through the SMART formula and have them determine whether it is a SMART goal or not.

I have used a variety of goal setting activities with different levels of leadership at my workplace. In regards to your request, I would agree with JYates1966 by incorporating SMART goals into your activity (tons of information online). One way to incorporate SMART goals and team building would be to have the participants work in pairs or groups and plan an event (whatever is relevant to your group i.e. meeting, major project, birthday party) from scratch. Give the event a theme/objective and have them set smart goals for everything.

If you would like any more information, feel free to contact me.

Thanks,
Beth Fredrick
Potawatomi Bingo Casino
bfredrick@paysbig.com