No marketing? No business.
Reaching out to audiences with relevant content and information is essential to showcasing products and establishing brand identity. With so many new developments in social media and mobile technology, marketing campaigns have more potential to interact with larger audiences than ever.
Forget leprechauns guarding pots of gold. March is particularly rife with myths and misconceptions about marketing, and businesses should be aware of these common marketing myths, especially as we round the corner on the first quarter of the year.
Myth #1: Your brand doesn't matter.
Don't make the mistake of underestimating the power of smart, consistent branding. Today's market is overwhelmed by competition. Businesses are selling similar products, and the most important differentiating factor is storytelling.
Myth #2: Marketing is all about tactics.
Don't get wrapped up in the supposed science or theories of marketing. There is no secret formula involved in effective marketing. It's about understanding people and how they interact with products and advertising. Keep in mind how your marketing campaigns will resonate with the people viewing them, and how they will impact the human element. Audiences are smarter and more self-aware than ever, so honesty and transparency in your ad campaign will make an impression.
Myth #3: New is always better.
Innovation is important in marketing, but be mindful of current developments and trends. The most successful marketing ideas tend to incorporate traditional advertising tropes or methods in a new way. Audiences like to be surprised, especially in today's image saturated market.
Myth #4: Marketing is a world unto itself.
Don't isolate your marketing team from the rest of your business. Marketing functions in sync with brand development and product development. It's only one piece in the machine of your business, and informed marketing teams are successful marketing teams. Get input from different perspectives for a well-rounded campaign, because your consumer market will be diverse.
Myth #5: Marketing means an eye-catching brochure.
So many marketing campaigns are breaking new ground with video, editing, storytelling, participation, and creativity in general. Marketing can be powerful, funny, dramatic, shocking, and beautiful. Don't fall into the pit of predictability - unleash your team and give them enough freedom to explore daring ideas.
Don't let your budget box you in.
Good marketing should never rely solely on money. You don't need an extravagant budget to achieve smart, direct advertising. Some of the most impactful marketing ideas are derived from simple, clever ideas. As much as marketing is constantly evolving, it's hard to find a single source to rely on. Assembling a team of people who work well together is your best chance at achieving competitive, edgy marketing in the coming quarter so you'll be poised to reach the goals you've set for this year.
