The Big Difference Between Marketing and Advertising

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The words “marketing” and “advertising” get thrown around thousands of times each day across the web – marketing increasingly more so. Many people outside of the industry use these words interchangeably. It’s no surprise then that people like yourself are left asking ‘What is the big difference between marketing and advertising?’

Advertising is like a first date.

Sure, prior to your date you’ve talked a few times. You’ve even done some Facebook stalking. But when it comes right down to it, all you can do is cross your fingers and hope the night goes well.

Like a first date, advertising doesn’t require any long term commitments.

That’s not to say that advertising is a complete shot in the dark. For example – Facebook marketing. Many people would define advertising as non personalized, but with platforms like Facebook that simply isn’t true. It allows you to target audiences based on demographics, behaviors, and even contact information.

Even still, advertising is more about putting yourself out there, not about building a relationship with your audience. Marketing, however, is in it for the long haul.

Marketing is like a marriage.

How many times have you heard “marriage takes work”? The same can be said for marketing. Marketing times time, persistence, and is ongoing. Your business should try a few different approaches, see what happens, and return back to the drawing board to look for improvements.

Most marketing strategies look something like this..

Step 1: Analysis

  • What are your demographics?
  • What are their problems and goals?
  • What kind of market trends are going on?

Step 2: Strategy

  • What are your business’s objectives?
  • What are your financial objectives for this?
  • How is your business different from others in your industry?

Step 3: Budget & Plan

  • Which avenues would help you reach your objectives?
  • How much do these avenues cost?
  • Which avenues line up with your budget?

Step 4: Design & Implement

  • What kind of content will best resonate with your audience?
  • How can you best describe your vision accurately to the designer?
  • Are you ready to put the plan in action?

Step 5: Improve

  • How are your approaches performing?
  • Are you hitting your goals?
  • What can you improve moving forward?

In the end, the big difference between marketing and advertising is that marketing is your business’s full approach to reaching new customers, and advertising is just a component of that approach.

If you’re looking for an all encompassing marketing strategy and a partner to help set it in motion, our team is here for you! Schedule your free phone consultation today.

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