I’ve seen the words ‘branding’ and ‘marketing’ be used interchangeably lately. Here to spread the word that they are not the same and why it is important to know the differences.

Graphic design is a tactical visual language tool to depict a message through design.

Branding is the strategic development of a business or person’s perceived identity. A feeling, a reputation. Branding is birthing a brand identity for a business to define who they are as a company to then influence an association in people’s minds. Branding puts the consumer in charge to make their own decision. Designing a strategic perception a company wants to be known for is the aim.

Marketing is a tactical and strategic sales plan to promote specific products or services to a specific target audience with a specific message to convert them. Building brand awareness and visibility is the aim.

One cannot happen without the other. In fact many small businesses or newbies go straight to marketing with the focus to generate revenue quickly without laying a brand strategy foundation to shape their business.

Advertising is communicating a specific message (sales copy) with the intent to sell products/services to a specific target market. Driving sales is the aim.

Does this make sense? I know it can be confusing as if they are all pretty much the same thing – but they really aren’t.

You cannot advertise or market a business with a fruitful ROI [return on investment] if there is no brand strategy or a defined brand identity.

Any questions? Drop them below. Hope this was helpful!

📷: Marty Neumeier