If you have ever wondered if Marketing and Branding are the same things, you are not alone. Many people confuse one for the other and use the terms interchangeably. But if you run a business, understanding the difference between the two concepts is important. Knowing the difference allows you to use them effectively to boost your business. This post examines the little differences between Branding and Marketing. Below, we explain the meaning of both concepts.
What is Branding, and how is it different from Marketing?
A brand is the distinguishing feature that identifies your business. It is your business identity. Branding is telling people who and what your business is all about. It is using the right strategies to shape your brand image. In contrast, marketing is an activity that builds brand awareness. It makes people aware of your products or services. The following important features help you determine what your brand is:
- Your core values
- The business mission
- What makes you unique
- What feelings you want people to associate with your business
- How you want your customers to describe your company
These points help you determine your business identity and help you represent it in your brand image. The brand elements are your business name and logo, including design and branding style. These should project your brand image and leave a lasting impression in the customer’s mind. The brand image is the reason a customer chooses Pepsi over Coke or Coke over Pepsi, even though both items are just drinks. Proper branding provides clear direction for marketing activities.
What is Marketing?
Marketing is the activity a company conducts to build brand awareness. The goal of marketing is to get people interested in your brand. It involves promoting the products or services that your business offers. It is any activity that is aimed at letting people know the benefits of your products or services. A successful marketing plan relies on branding. The business must first determine its identity and what it wants customers to perceive.
Branding and Marketing go together
People see business logos or emblems all the time in passing. They may be fascinated by one or more of these because of the catchy design. However, more is needed to develop their buying interest. Marketing is necessary for this purpose.
Marketing and Branding are two different concepts. But you need a combination of both to achieve business success. Good branding is a great foundation for successful marketing. Through it, marketing can clearly show the brand’s features and benefits. The brand becomes hard to forget because people see the designs and get the message. If the branding is good, the marketing campaign will be effective and generate the desired result.
Final thought
Knowing the difference between the two concepts can only benefit you as a business owner. Both branding and marketing are essential for business growth. It is highly beneficial to lay a good branding foundation early in the business. Marketing should follow proper branding.
