We work with a variety of businesses every day, and it is always interesting to hear their initial thoughts on marketing - what it means, how it works, what they can expect... The reality is that marketing has many moving parts and can be pretty complex, especially as businesses grow. We work with our clients to develop an overall strategy and plan, but we also like to break down some of the basics. We’ve compiled a list of 5 common myths about marketing that we hear all the time. We hope these help clarify some confusion and explain how it really works.
Myth #1: Marketing is Expensive.
Truth: The reality is that marketing doesn’t have to be expensive. Yes, there are ways to spend a lot of money on it if you want - but there are also many ways to get started with very little or no budget. The key is knowing what you need and how to find it!
Myth 2: Marketing is Only for Big Businesses.
Truth: It's a common fallacy that only large organisations must invest in marketing. Whether big or small, marketing is essential for the growth and success of a business. In fact, smaller organisations often benefit more from customised marketing strategies to reach their niche customer base.
Myth 3: Online Marketing is the Only Way to Go.
Truth: While it's undeniable that online marketing is critical in today's digital age, traditional marketing isn't obsolete. Depending on your target customers and industry, direct mail, in-person events, and print advertising can also be super effective.
Myth 4: Social Media Marketing Gives Instant Results.
Truth: Social media marketing does not come with a magic wand. It's about building relationships, generating dialogue, and engaging customers in meaningful ways. Results often require a consistent strategy over time, but pivoting and changing direction to adapt to changing situations is also critical to a successful social media presence.
Myth 5: More Traffic Means More Revenue.
Truth: Bigger does not always equate to better. What matters more than just website traffic is the quality of that traffic, defined by how well it converts into paying customers. Rather than just getting more web visitors, focusing on conversion optimisation can often yield better results.
Myth 6: Email is Outdated.
Truth: Despite the surge of social media platforms, email marketing remains an efficient and personalised channel with a much higher return on investment compared to many other activities. It can be particularly effective for small and medium-sized enterprises to build long-lasting relationships. Email marketing allows you to build a relationship with your customers, which is more important than ever in today’s hyper-competitive business environment. And it can be used for more than just promoting products and services; it can also help improve customer support experiences, drive sales and grow your brand.
Myth 7: Negative Feedback is Bad News.
Truth: Receiving negative feedback can be tough, but it can also be an opportunity for growth. It helps you pinpoint areas that need improvement, and if you handle it well, it can enhance your business's credibility and trust. By responding promptly, honestly, and respectfully to negative feedback, you can show your customers that you genuinely care about their experience. It's a great way to demonstrate your company's commitment to customer satisfaction and service quality.
Myth 8: Marketing is a One-Time Investment.
Truth: Marketing is something that requires ongoing attention and effort. It's essential to stay up-to-date with changes in the market, as well as the needs and preferences of your customers. While some strategies may work well in the short term, it's essential to keep investing to achieve long-term success.
Remember, the key to good marketing is understanding your customers, being authentic, and continuously evolving your strategies based on market trends and performance insights. There's no right and wrong - just what works and doesn't work for you and your business.
If you'd like some help with your marketing, we offer on-demand services and monthly outsourced packages. Drop us a message or book a call with us to discuss our requirements.