Now that you understand the SMART goal framework, let’s look at how to apply it in real-world marketing scenarios. Below are examples from three common types of business goals—each broken down using the SMART method to give you a clear picture of how this framework works in action.
📅 Goal Example: Promoting an Upcoming Event
Want to drive registrations for an event? Here’s how a SMART goal might look:
Specific: Increase the number of registrants by sending targeted email campaigns and posting on social media platforms with event reminders.
Measurable: Use a dedicated registration page and analytics tools to track sign-ups and compare to previous campaigns.
Achievable: Increase registration rate by 20% using a multi-channel approach—weekly email newsletters and daily social posts.
Relevant: More attendees mean more donations and better year-over-year outcomes—supporting visibility and impact.
Time-bound: Open registration one month out. Check progress at the halfway point. Adjust promotional efforts if needed. Assess final success post-event.
🛍️ Goal Example: Boosting Online Store Sales
Running an online store? SMART goals can help you sell more during peak seasons:
Specific: Increase product sales during Black Friday/Holiday season through email campaigns and social media promotions.
Measurable: Monitor product sales using your store's analytics and compare to last year’s performance.
Achievable: Increase sales by 30% using a 20% off coupon and targeting repeat customers with holiday promos.
Relevant: More sales = better profit margins and more revenue to reinvest in growth.
Time-bound: Track results right after Black Friday weekend. Adjust your strategy through the rest of the season as needed.
📈 Goal Example: Growing Your Brand Presence
Want to grow your email list and brand visibility? Here's a SMART way to do it:
Specific: Launch a social media campaign that drives traffic to a dedicated sign-up landing page.
Measurable: Use UTM parameters and analytics to track which platforms/posts generate the most sign-ups.
Achievable: Grow your list by 50% in 30 days through a mix of organic content and paid social ads.
Relevant: A bigger list means more engaged contacts and future sales opportunities.
Time-bound: Check progress at the campaign midpoint. Adjust tactics if needed, then review again at the end to plan next steps.
💡 Tip: Once you start emailing new subscribers, make sure your email content aligns with the tone, style, and messaging of your social media to keep your brand consistent.
Putting It into Practice
These examples show how breaking a broad goal into a SMART format makes it easier to act on, track, and ultimately achieve. As you think about your own marketing objectives, use this session as inspiration to create specific, focused goals that move your business forward.
Ready to create your own? Head to the next session where you’ll put SMART goal setting into action with a quick worksheet.
