A look at Branding vs. Marketing

Two simplified human figures wearing boxing gloves are facing each other, one with red gloves and the other with black. This visual element is perfect for branding, conveying a sense of confrontation or competition.

What is the difference between Branding and Marketing?

When I am in front of a group talking about Branding and Marketing, I always start with a definition of both. There are a lot of ways to define Branding- even more about Marketing. Somewhere along the way, I found a simple, easy to remember definition.

Branding is who you are. Marketing is what you do.

When you put it in that context, it’s easy to put the two into an order people understand. When you know who you are (and what your business is all about), only then can you truly market (aka get it out there).

Knowing the difference is the key to a strategic marketing initiative in any and every case. There is no point in putting out flyers with your logo on them if you haven’t thought through your brand and your identity. It’s like expecting a table with three legs to support itself. You’re missing something big.

A must-do before doing any Marketing

I work with clients on Brand Strategy every day. What this means is that I look at their business and determine the best and most effective ways to get their message/product/service/story out to the right audiences/customers/clients at the right time. A Brand Strategy is the pre-cursor to implementing an equally strategic marketing plan- a marketing plan that converts prospects into loyal, repeat customers.

Doing the right first thing first

I love what I do because often times I can see the proverbial light bulb above the heads of my clients as they understand that there is an order to things and that I will guide them in doing the right first thing first.

For the next few weeks, I will be elaborating on Branding vs. Marketing, so stay tuned to get a deeper understanding of both and how you can benefit from not only knowing the difference between the two, but knowing how to use both to your (and your business’) advantage.

If you’re ready to dive into either Branding or Marketing, I can help. Email me now to see if coaching is the right fit for you and your business.

sherrables