Running a small business means wearing a hundred hats. Marketing often gets squeezed in between everything else — and that’s where mistakes happen. The good news? Most marketing mistakes are easy to fix once you know what to look for.
Here are the five biggest marketing mistakes small business owners make (and how you can avoid them).
Mistake 1: Trying to Be Everywhere at Once
From TikTok to LinkedIn to YouTube, it’s tempting to think you need to be on every platform. But spreading yourself too thin usually means doing everything badly.
✅ Fix it: Focus on 1–2 channels where your ideal customers actually spend time. Do them well, consistently.
Mistake 2: Copying Competitors Blindly
It’s easy to assume what works for others will work for you. But your audience, resources, and brand may be completely different.
✅ Fix it: Use competitors for inspiration, not instruction. Test what works for your business.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Your Message
Many businesses put all their energy into logos, ads, or social media without fixing the root problem: unclear messaging. If people don’t “get it” instantly, they won’t buy.
✅ Fix it: Invest time in your marketing message first. Clear words beat flashy graphics every time.
Mistake 4: Forgetting Consistency
Marketing is like going to the gym — you can’t post once and expect results. Stopping and starting kills momentum and makes your brand forgettable.
✅ Fix it: Create a simple routine you can stick with — even one post a week is better than bursts followed by silence.
Mistake 5: Not Tracking Results
If you’re not tracking what’s working, you’re flying blind. Many small businesses spend money on ads, websites, or campaigns with no idea what’s actually delivering customers.
✅ Fix it: Measure one or two simple metrics (like enquiries or sales) linked to your marketing. If it’s not moving the needle, change it.
Conclusion
Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll save yourself time, money, and stress — while actually seeing results.
If you’re unsure where you’re going wrong, book a Reality Check session with me. I’ll review your website, socials, and messaging — and tell you exactly what’s working (and what isn’t).
