14. 10 Marketing Strategy Myths That Are Holding Your Business Back

If you’ve been feeling a little off about your marketing strategy—or wondering why all the effort you’re putting in isn’t translating into growth—you’re not alone. I hear it all the time from Christian CEOs and service-based business owners: “I'm doing all the things… so why isn't it working?”

In this episode of the Higher Purpose Marketing Strategy Podcast, we’re cutting through the noise and calling out 10 common marketing myths that might be keeping you stuck. Some of these are rooted in hustle culture, some in fear, and some in outdated strategies that just don’t work anymore—especially when you want your marketing to reflect your values and faith.

Let’s dig in.

Myth 1: You have to be everywhere to be successful

The truth: You don’t need to chase every shiny platform. In fact, trying to show up everywhere can wear you out—and confuse your audience. The goal isn’t to be loud. It’s to be clear.

Instead:

• Figure out where your ideal customers actually hang out

• Go deep on one or two platforms where you can truly show up and serve

• Build connection over content volume

Myth 2: More followers = more success

The truth: Engagement matters more than audience size. A small, committed audience is more powerful than a big, quiet one.

Instead:

• Track conversations, not just likes

• Focus on moving people into deeper connection (email list, discovery calls, etc.)

• Remember: sales happen in the relationship, not just the reach

Myth 3: Talking about your faith will scare people off

The truth: The people you’re called to serve will lean in when you show up honestly. You don’t need to preach—but weaving your values into your message creates deeper trust.

Instead:

• Share stories about how your faith shapes your business decisions

• Talk about what matters to you in a natural way

• Trust that God will bring the right people

Myth 4: If you build it, they will come

The truth: You can have the best product in the world, but if no one knows about it… it won’t grow. Visibility isn’t vanity—it’s stewardship.

Instead:

• Get clear on who you're for—and where they spend time

• Use consistent, intentional marketing strategies

• Don’t be afraid to talk about what you offer

Myth 5: You have to follow every trend to stay relevant

The truth: Trends can be fun, but they shouldn’t drive your entire strategy. Clarity and consistency build trust.

Instead:

• Filter trends through your values and goals

• Stick to a plan that reflects who you are and where you're going

• Don’t sacrifice peace for popularity

Myth 6: Success = scaling fast

The truth: Big growth without strong roots leads to burnout. God’s timing is often slower than ours—and way better.

Instead:

• Focus on delighting and serving your current clients well

• Build a business that can sustain success, not just chase it

• Ask for feedback—and use it to refine what you offer

Myth 7: Marketing feels prideful or salesy

The truth: When your heart is to help, marketing becomes ministry. You’re inviting people into something that can truly serve them.

Instead:

• Shift your mindset from self-promotion to service

• Talk about the transformation you create, not just the features

• Use honest, transparent messaging that reflects your integrity

Myth 8: High-ticket offers aren’t faith-aligned

The truth: High-value services deserve high-value pricing. And being well-compensated allows you to give generously and grow your impact.

Instead:

• Communicate the real value of your offer—not just what it includes

• Share how your pricing supports others (team, mission, giving, etc.)

• Don’t shrink back—own your expertise

Myth 9: Marketing is just about selling

The truth: Marketing is about building trust and relationship. The sale is the result of connection, not just persuasion.

Instead:

• Think about the journey your customers are on

• Create helpful, relevant content for each stage of that journey

• Focus on relationship-building over quick wins

Myth 10: If I'm faithful, the right customers will find me

The truth: Faith doesn’t cancel out effort—it energizes it. You still need to plant, water, and tend the soil.

Instead:

• Move forward with prayer and purpose

• Be faithful in the work—and let God be faithful in the results

• Show up consistently and trust the process

Need help identifying which myth is tripping you up (and what to do about it)?

I have three open Power Hour Coaching spots next month—and one of them could be yours.

In this 60-minute session, we’ll tackle the biggest marketing challenge you’re facing, get clarity on your next step, and walk away with a plan you can implement right away. No fluff. Just focused, strategic help from someone who gets your values and your goals.

Click here to book your session before the spots fill up.

Let’s build a business that reflects your calling—and doesn’t burn you out in the process.