Being Cheap with Marketing and PR: The Shortcut That Leads to Nowhere

Think saving on marketing and PR is smart business? Think again—your budget cuts could be cutting you out of the competition.

Don't let a budget mindset cost you long-term success.

Truth be told—being frugal is an art form. So many of us thrive on the ability to buy for pennies on the dollar. But when it comes to your business, being cheap with marketing and PR isn't just about saving a few bucks; it's about losing a whole lot more. If you're thinking, “It doesn’t need to be all that,” or “I’m just keeping it real,” let's have a little chat. Because, honestly? That mindset is doing you more harm than good.

The “I’m Just Keeping It Real” Fallacy

You might believe that people aren’t looking for “all of that”—fancy websites, polished branding, professional photos. But here’s the truth: They are. And not only are they looking for it, they expect it. If you underestimate your audience’s expectations, you’re essentially telling them they’re not worth the extra effort. And nothing scares away potential customers faster than feeling undervalued.

When you cut corners on marketing and PR, you’re sending a clear message—intentional or not—that you’re unwilling to embrace challenges. That lack of investment reflects a lack of confidence in your own business, and trust me, people can sense that from a mile away.

Why You Get What You Pay For

Now, let’s talk about the freelancer vs. the agency owner. Sure, that freelancer might be able to complete a specific task for a fraction of the cost, but there’s a huge difference in quality. They’re not necessarily going to tie their work back to your brand or service in a meaningful way. You’re still left to add that personal touch and flavor to make it all come together. And to be honest—you didn’t pay the freelancer for that. You just paid them for one part of the task. But with an agency, you’re paying for a holistic approach that considers your brand’s voice, goals, and overall strategy, ensuring that everything aligns and drives your business forward.

Customers Can Tell the Difference

Let’s talk websites. People can absolutely tell the difference between a basic, thrown-together site and one that’s been thoughtfully crafted. Imagine visiting a site where the photos are blurry, the product descriptions are vague, and there’s no clear way to ask questions or securely check out. Are you buying? Probably not. Neither are your customers.

If a customer has to work too hard to figure out what you’re offering, they’ll take their money elsewhere. And if they do take a chance on you and have a bad experience, not only are they not coming back, but they’ll also tell their friends and family to avoid your business too. Ouch.

Investing in the Customer Experience

Your customer's experience with your marketing and PR is a dealbreaker. It's not just about having a presence; it's about the quality of that presence. Tools like interactive product shops and real-time chat features are game changers. Platforms like Wix make it easy to integrate these elements into your website, giving your customers the seamless experience they crave.

And don’t get me started on social media. The days of “Post and Hope” are over. While ads still have their place, they're not the heavy hitters they used to be. Today’s consumers want more—storytelling, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and real-time engagement. That’s why Instagram Live, TikTok Live, and interactive landing pages are killing it right now. They’re not just selling a product; they’re selling an experience.

Your Competition Isn’t Holding Back—Why Are You?

Let’s face it, your competition is putting in the time, money, and strategy to attract loyal customers. They’re investing in quality marketing and PR, and guess what? It’s paying off. They’re not just earning more revenue; they’re building relationships and trust with their audience. And in today’s market, that’s priceless.

So, if you’re still holding on to the idea that “it doesn’t need to be all that,” it’s time to let go. Investing in quality marketing and PR isn’t about being flashy; it’s about showing your customers that you’re serious about your business and their experience. Because at the end of the day, if you’re not willing to invest in yourself, why should they?

Time to step it up. Your customers—and your bottom line—will thank you.

Are you investing enough in Marketing and PR for your business?

• Absolutely! Quality marketing is worth every penny.
• I’m trying, but I could probably do more.
• Not really—I’m on a tight budget.
• Nope, I don’t think it’s necessary.