Marketing vs. Public Relations

Marketing Vs. Public Relations

Having now studied marketing and public relations, I see there are many differences as well as similarities between to two disciplines.  While studying marketing, we were always taught that public relations was used as a promotional tool and was commonly associated the media talk shows, and newscasts.  But now having focused more of my studies specifically on public relations, it is so much more.

Marketing’s main focus is selling a product or service.  Its priority is how to position a product or service in the market, it engages in product development, determines a target market, identifies the situational analysis, plans on how to reach a specific target etc.  While studying market the 4 Ps were one thing that was constantly stressed; Price, Place, Product, Promotion.  Marketing encompasses the entire brand’s communication, and has a lot of control in the finished product or service.  It plans on how to communicate to a particular audience to convince, encourage, and promote the sale of a tangible or intangible good.  Marketing deals with its customers before their purchase, their decision during the purchasing process, and their post purchase experiences.  Marketing is the one-way communication, company to audience.

Public Relations takes a different stance.  PR is the communication and relationship with a company or organization and the public.  Its goal is to maintain relationships with employees, media, target audiences etc. PR can support the marketing function but has a lot of stand-alone qualities.  These include crisis management, CRM reports, internal communications, dealing with media and so much more. Public relations on two- way communication and main focus is sustaining their relationships.

Sometimes it does seem very beneficial if the two were to work more closely together.  It seems when companies have separate departments, messages are not always consistent and each department is fighting for finances from the company to complete specific tactics to accomplish different goals.  But having these two departments working seamlessly with each other would only benefit the success of whatever is trying to be accomplished.  Also having a clear communication between the two groups of practitioners will allow the company to have a clear and internal understanding of what each department or group is working on.

I am happy that I have studied these two areas of communication as I feel they go hand in hand.  I have an understanding of what marketing and public relations can achieve and know how to combine them in certain situations to execute the best possible strategies for success.