We call it: Goals Planning

So you have decided that you want to start a marketing campaign. You have all these wonderful ideas and can’t wait to begin. Great! But wait… before you begin running with that awesome idea there are a few important things you should do. Successful marketing campaigns begin with thoughtful planning of goals and objectives that will define your marketing strategies.

We all want to grow and reach new people, but how?  Most people start with the platform or method before even defining what they are trying to accomplish.  Your goals should determine how and where you market, so how do you set good quality marketing goals?  

Defining Your Goals:

Your marketing strategy is an explanation of the goals you need to achieve with your marketing efforts. Your marketing strategy is shaped by your business goals.

Your marketing plan is how you are going to achieve those marketing goals. It's the application of your strategy a roadmap that will guide you from one point to another.

The issue is that most people try to set out to achieve the "how" without first knowing the "what." This can end up wasting resources for a company, both time and money.

When it comes to marketing, we must always identify the what and then dig into the how.

So, what do You Consider a Success?

In other words, what are your goals? Without specifically defined goals and objectives your marketing campaign is likely to fail; how will you know if and how successful (or not successful) your campaign was if you did not set specific quantifiable objectives you can measure?

We use SMART goals.  

SMART Goals are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely.

Be specific when defining your goals. Though wanting to grow your business is the vision, it doesn't make for a good marketing goal.  Where do you want to grow?  With who? The more narrowed down and specific your goals are the better you can use your resources to accomplish it!

Are your goals measurable, meaningful and manageable? Too many times we narrow down our vision to a goal but don't put a real measurable number to it.  If you want to increase website traffic, by how much?  Putting a tangible marker on your goal will allow you to not only meet the goal but measure your progress along the way!

Are your goals attainable? Though your goal should stretch you and take work, it shouldn't be impossible or unreachable. Ask yourself, how realistic is your goal based on past growth?

Are your goals relevant. Understanding why you chose this goal will help you better understand the weight of your mission.  You don't need a goal just to have a goal. Ask yourself, does this help meet your needs? Is this the right time?

Set a timetable for attaining your goal. Your goals should be able to be achieved within a reasonable time period. When do you want to see your goal met? Put a date on it and write it everywhere. Celebrate small victories and big steps towards completing your goal.

‍