Why More Marketing Isn't Always the Answer
- Katie Kimball Dyer
- May 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 30
Post more. Spend more. Promote more. Push harder.
This approach makes sense on the surface, but it is not always the right answer.
In Episode 5 of Heart of Finance, Katie Kimball Dyer and Mikki Wilson discuss a common pattern they see in business owners, especially women entrepreneurs: when income slows down, the assumption becomes “more marketing equals more revenue.” However, that connection is not always direct. Treating marketing like an emergency fix can lead to frustration, increased spending, and burnout.
Understanding the Marketing Challenge
The challenge is that good marketing does not usually create instant sales. Katie points out that strong marketing builds awareness, trust, and relationships over time. It is often a long game, not a quick patch for a revenue problem in business. This is especially important for business owners who are already stretched thin and trying to make careful financial decisions.
That does *not* mean marketing is not valuable. It is. But if money is tight and the business is under pressure, it may not be the first place to throw more time or money. As Katie and Mikki discuss, sometimes the better question is not, “How do I market more?” but “What is actually causing the revenue problem?”
Identifying the Root Causes
In some cases, the issue may be burnout. Mikki describes working with women who were overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, and stuck, convinced they simply needed to do more marketing. What they really needed was clarity, focus, and support. Feeling pulled in too many directions can make it hard to make smart business decisions, and burnout often shows up long before people recognize it.
The Importance of Support
In other cases, the issue may be a lack of support. If a business owner is trying to do everything alone, marketing can become just one more spinning plate. Katie and Mikki both emphasize that entrepreneurship is hard to sustain without help, systems, and people you can rely on. Sometimes the smarter move is hiring help for short-term tasks, getting bookkeeping or accounting support, or leaning on trusted relationships that can help you move forward more effectively.
Creative Solutions Over Increased Spend
Sometimes the answer is not more marketing spend, but a more creative or differentiated approach. Katie notes that a business may benefit more from improving what it is already doing than simply increasing the budget. Better messaging, clearer positioning, or a more interesting strategy can go farther than just turning up the volume.
The Unique Challenges for Women Entrepreneurs
This is especially relevant for women entrepreneurs, who often balance business ownership with caregiving, emotional labor, and the mental load of daily life. When that pressure builds, the temptation is to keep adding more effort. But more effort is not always the solution. Sometimes the real need is focus, support, and a more honest look at what is and is not working.
Marketing matters. But it is not magic.
If revenue is slowing down, it may be time to look deeper before reaching for another ad spend, another campaign, or another round of content just for the sake of doing more. Sustainable business growth usually comes from understanding the real problem first and choosing the next step with intention.
Taking Action
So, what can you do? Start by reviewing your numbers and assessing your current marketing strategy. Are you truly addressing the root causes of your revenue challenges?
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out for support. Whether it’s hiring a professional or leaning on your network, remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Ready to look at what your numbers are really telling you?
By taking a step back and evaluating your situation, you can make informed decisions that will lead to lasting financial well-being. Remember, it’s not just about doing more; it’s about doing what truly matters.
