There’s certainly no shortage of marketing advice floating around the internet these days – but let’s face it, not all of it is genuinely helpful. Some myths persist simply because they sound intuitive, even if they’re not. Believing them can actually hinder your marketing effectiveness.
So, let’s do some much-needed myth-busting with five of the top marketing myths holding you back – and show you how to focus on the right marketing channels so you can whip your marketing strategy into the best shape possible.
Myth #1: You need to be everywhere all at once
Here’s the truth: you don’t need to maintain a presence on every platform under the sun. That kind of scatterplot approach can lead to serious marketing myopia – when you focus so much on selling the product that you lose sight of what your customers actually want. It’s a common trap, and it’s one that can lead to wasted time, budget blowouts, and serious burnout.
“It’s not about being in every channel and undertaking every type of marketing activity available, but about doing the right marketing.” says Caroline Healy, We Are Savvy’s CEO.
Instead, focus on the platforms your clients are actually using. If you’re B2B, LinkedIn is usually your sweet spot. Selling to an older demographic? Facebook’s still going strong. After Gen Z? TikTok and Instagram are your friends.
As Caroline adds: “A great way to manage this is to do a simple audience audit to find out who your customers really are before spreading yourself too thin. That way you can make decisions based on data, not assumptions.”
Myth #2: More followers mean more success
If your plan is simply to chase followers, you might be investing in the wrong digital marketing goals. Vanity metrics – like follower counts – don’t necessarily lead to more sales or long-term customers.
What you really want to track is engagement and conversions. Real interactions that move people down your sales funnel mean more than empty numbers. Foster a genuine community, and you’ll see your marketing strategy pay off.
Myth #3: Email marketing is dead
Email marketing? Far from dead – it’s alive, kicking, and can be one of your most powerful tools when it’s done properly.
Myths like this persist because too many brands send emails that are, well, a bit of a snoozefest: too generic, too frequent and too salesy. But when you craft emails that are relevant, engaging, and genuinely useful, this channel shines.
“Email lets you control the message straight to your audience.” Caroline says. “It’s direct, personal, and often one of the most cost-effective parts of your marketing mix” In short, it’s one of the most valuable touchpoints you can have.
Myth #4: Your product will sell itself if it’s good enough
>It’d be nice if that were true, but even the most brilliant products need a helping hand. That’s where proactive marketing becomes your best friend.
“You need to make sure your target audience knows you exist.” Caroline explains. “People can’t buy what they don’t know about.”
Sharing authentic client testimonials and case studies is a clever way to establish credibility and show the real-world value of what you do – proving your product is every bit as good as you say it is.
Myth #5: Marketing is too expensive for small businesses
Here’s a not-so-well-kept secret: a good marketing strategy doesn’t have to blow the budget.
“Low-cost strategies – like writing helpful blog content, teaming up with local partners, or investing a bit of time in organic social media – can all produce real results.” says Caroline. Small, consistent actions often add up faster than one flashy, one-off campaign, making marketing accessible for businesses of any size.
So, next time someone tells you one of these myths, feel free to smile knowingly – you’re already one step ahead.
Need help crafting a plan that’s tailored to your goals? Get in touch via hello@wearesavvy.com.au. We can help you focus on the actions that are right for you.