Starting Strong: How to Set Clear Communications Goals for 2025
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reassess, refocus, and set the tone for the months ahead. In the world of communications, having a clear strategy and actionable goals can make the difference between staying stagnant and achieving impactful growth. At SMJ Communications, we believe that 2025 is your year to shine—and it starts with setting clear goals that align with your mission and audience.
Why Goal Setting Matters in Communications
When you’re clear on your goals, your messaging becomes sharper, your team more focused, and your audience more engaged. But vague aspirations like "improve engagement" or "increase awareness" aren’t enough. Strategic goal-setting requires defining what success looks like and identifying the steps to get there.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essentials of creating a strategic communications plan that brings clarity and purpose to your efforts. Whether you’re a nonprofit, school district, or organization striving to amplify your message, this is your blueprint for success.
1. Reflect on 2024
Before setting new goals, take stock of the past year.
What worked well?
What challenges did you face?
Which campaigns, messages, or strategies resonated most with your audience?
Reviewing data, feedback, and outcomes will give you valuable insights to shape your strategy moving forward.
2. Define Your Priorities
Focus on the 2-3 most important outcomes you want to achieve this year.
Examples:
Increase donor engagement by 20%.
Strengthen community trust through consistent messaging.
Launch a new initiative or program with impactful communications.
Prioritizing prevents overwhelm and keeps your efforts targeted.
3. Align Goals with Your Mission
Your communications should reflect your organization’s core values and mission. Goals that are authentic to your mission not only resonate with your audience but also strengthen your brand identity.
Example: If your mission focuses on educational equity, your communications might emphasize storytelling about student success and advocating for resources.
4. Set SMART Goals
SMART goals ensure clarity and accountability:
Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve.
Measurable: Include metrics to track progress.
Achievable: Be realistic about what’s possible.
Relevant: Align with your mission and priorities.
Time-bound: Set a deadline to create urgency.
Example: “Increase email open rates by 15% by the end of Q1 by revamping subject lines and targeting specific audience segments.”
5. Plan for Quarterly Reviews
Quarterly check-ins keep your goals actionable and adaptable. Use these sessions to assess progress, adjust strategies, and ensure you’re staying aligned with your mission and audience needs.
2025 is a blank slate filled with potential. By setting clear, strategic communications goals, you can position your organization for measurable growth and lasting impact. At SMJ Communications, we’re passionate about helping you achieve success through tailored strategies, fresh perspectives, and expert guidance.
Ready to set your goals and start the year strong? Download our Reflection Worksheet to inform your goals for 2025!