Clueless About Your Marketing Spend? Don’t Worry—Here’s How to Start

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Not knowing your marketing spend isn’t the end of the world—it’s where smart strategy begins.

You’re Not Alone

Most businesses don’t know exactly how much they’re spending on marketing—and that’s okay. You’re not some rogue operator; even successful companies often miss this step. But here’s the kicker: almost all large, high-performing companies track their marketing spend compared to revenue. Why? Because knowing your numbers is like flipping the light switch in a dark room—it reveals opportunities, inefficiencies, and a path forward.

Not knowing isn’t failure; it’s a fresh start. Here’s how to move forward.

Step 1: Start with the Marketing Budget Benchmark Tool

The first step is simple: Use the Marketing Budget Benchmark Tool. This easy-to-use resource consolidates 15+ years of marketing-spend data to help you see where your business stands compared to industry norms. By inputting your revenue, industry, and size, you’ll get a tailored benchmark that serves as your roadmap to smarter decisions.

Step 2: What Counts as Marketing?

Marketing spend goes beyond just ads. Here’s a quick list of areas you might not think to include:

  • Digital ads (Google, Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
  • Website hosting and development
  • Content creation (blogs, videos, graphics)
  • OTT (over-the-top) video advertising
  • Customer research and testing
  • Agency fees or freelancers
  • Social media management platforms

Think of this as your marketing ecosystem. Understanding these components is key to building an accurate budget.

Step 3: Find Your Benchmark and Plan for Growth

Your benchmark isn’t just a comparison tool—it’s a growth map. Once you know your benchmark, you can:

  • Optimize Your Spend: Identify campaigns or channels delivering low ROI and reallocate to high-impact areas.
  • Meet Your Benchmark: If you’re underspending, focus on proven areas like digital ads or customer research to close the gap.
  • Exceed the Benchmark: Outspend competitors strategically to grow your share of voice (SOV) and capture market share.

Step 4: Build for Long-Term Success

The real magic happens when you use your benchmark as the foundation for a long-term strategy:

  • Balance Short- and Long-Term Investments: Use the 60/40 rule—60% for brand-building, 40% for sales activation.
  • Track and Adjust: Review your spend regularly. Your benchmark isn’t static; it evolves as your business and market grow.

The Bottom Line

Not knowing your marketing spend isn’t a failure—it’s an opportunity to grow strategically. By starting with the Marketing Budget Benchmark Tool, you’ll gain the clarity needed to optimize your budget, grow smarter, and turn marketing into your competitive edge. Understanding the impact of marketing on business growth is crucial for any organization aiming to thrive in a competitive marketplace. Implementing targeted marketing strategies can significantly enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. As a result, businesses that prioritize effective marketing often experience sustainable growth and long-term success.

Call to Action:
Stop guessing and start growing. Use the Marketing Budget Benchmark Tool today to build a smarter, more strategic budget.

Let me know if you’d like to adjust any sections or if you’d like to move forward with the next call-out article!

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