If you’ve been in business for more than, say, 10 minutes, you’ve probably been bombarded with advice—books, podcasts, social media posts, well-meaning “experts” telling you how to make it big.
Some of it sounds amazing. Some of it feels like common sense. And some of it… honestly, should come with a giant flashing WARNING sign.
We’re going to call out a few of the biggest business myths floating around—and more importantly, what actually works if you’re serious about growth, success, and keeping your sanity intact.
Myth #1: “If You Build It, They Will Come”
This is one of the most dangerous myths out there.
The idea that you just need a great product, a beautiful website, or a fantastic storefront, and poof! customers will magically appear.
Reality check:
Building something amazing is only step one.
Marketing, selling, and building relationships are what actually bring people in.
You need a plan to tell the world who you are, what you do, and why they should care. Otherwise, you’re just shouting into the void—and trust me, the void isn’t buying.
✅ What works:
- Smart, targeted marketing (not just “post and pray”)
- Clear messaging that speaks to your ideal customers
- Consistent outreach and relationship-building
Myth #2: “Work Harder, and You’ll Succeed”
Look, hard work matters. No argument there. But if hard work alone was the key, every exhausted business owner would be a millionaire by now.
The reality:
Hard work without a strategy is just busywork. It’s not about putting in more hours—it’s about putting energy into the right activities that actually drive results.
✅ What works:
- Prioritising high-impact actions
- Delegating, automating, and simplifying
- Focusing on smart, strategic growth, not just more hustle
Myth #3: “The Customer Is Always Right”
This one’s tricky.
Respecting your customers? Absolutely. Listening to feedback? 100%.
But taking every customer demand as gospel?
That’s a fast track to burnout and a blurry brand.
Reality check:
Not every customer is your ideal customer. Some aren’t a good fit. Some will drain your energy. And some demands just aren’t aligned with what’s best for your business long-term.
✅ What works:
- Setting clear boundaries with clients and customers
- Being professional, but firm, about what you offer (and what you don’t)
- Building a customer base that values your expertise, not just your willingness to say “yes” to everything
Myth #4: “You Have to Be on Every Social Media Platform”
The pressure is real, right? Instagram! TikTok! LinkedIn! YouTube! Threads! (And by next week, who knows what else.)
The reality:
You don’t have to be everywhere—you just have to be where your customers are. Spreading yourself thin across every platform typically just leads to mediocre results (and major overwhelm).
✅ What works:
- Picking 1–2 platforms where your audience actually hangs out
- Posting consistently and engaging meaningfully
- Doubling down on what’s working, instead of chasing every shiny new app
Myth #5: “Success Happens Overnight”
Scroll through Instagram and you’ll see it:
The “I made $100k in one month” posts. The “quit my job and now I’m a millionaire” stories.
Sure, lightning strikes happen. But for 99.9% of businesses?
Reality check:
Real, lasting success is built over time—with patience, persistence, and a whole lot of learning from mistakes.
✅ What works:
- Setting realistic goals and milestones
- Celebrating small wins along the way
- Staying focused even when things move slower than you want
Here’s the thing, you don’t have to buy into the myths. You don’t have to chase every trend, exhaust yourself with busywork, or pretend that success is one quick hack away.
The businesses that win? They focus on what works: clarity, strategy, consistency, and real relationships.
You’ve got this—and if you ever need help cutting through the noise and building strategies that actually work, we’re here to help.
Reach out to THE HBB GROUP today and let’s talk about how we can help you build a business (and a sales strategy) that’s built on truth, not tired myths.
Call 1300 833 574 or email info@hbbausgroup.com.au to get started!