If you were to go looking in cyberspace, you might read elsewhere that when it comes to understanding the difference between Marketing and PR, the only thing you can be sure of is confusion.
So what should you do if you are considering a graduate career in this twin-titled sector?
Maybe you fancy becoming a Marketing Executive but the role of PR Manager sounds more rock ’n’ roll?
If the position of Communications Manager sounds right up your street, why not the title of Digital Marketing Executive, too, or even the intriguingly entitled Proposals Executive?
Thankfully, here at s1jobs we have our own font of knowledge when it comes to getting to the barefaced facts. And his name is Davey.
So, Davey, what’s the difference between Marketing and PR?
“Well, let’s get back to basics. The truth is both Marketing and PR exist to promote an organisation and its services or products. The only real differences lie in the means each uses to achieve this primary aim.”
What do you mean ‘means’?
“Well, if you want to be a Marketing Executive, your means are the projects and programmes that assist you in the company’s promotion.
So first you will use data to pinpoint a service or product’s target customers. You will use market research to frame the best way to launch your campaigns – and liaise with the finance team to ensure there is a budget to make all of this happen.
Your means might also include utilising the talents of a Website Designer or a Digital Marketing Executive.
Finally, more feedback data will let you know whether you’ve succeeded.
PR, on the other hand, uses the means of advertising, press releases and newsletters to generate positive media coverage, all in order to maintain and promote the good reputation of the company.”
I read somewhere the real difference is ‘paid v free’?
“There are folks who will tell you Marketing is simply paid-for advertising, while PR is free coverage. While adverts are paid for and good stories can sell themselves, this simplification also suggests a good marketeer can simply buy success, while the public relations guru needs nothing more than a four-leafed clover.
The fact is many companies will have combined Marketing and PR teams that incorporate many different players, all operating within the same department and budget. Smaller companies may even have key players who perform both Marketing and PR duties.
Success will most often be as the result of Marketing and PR working together and so to identify who paid or made is to miss the point of good team work.”
So what should I go for: Marketing or PR?
“Always play to your strengths . . . but keep in mind these are easily transferrable. So, while an interest in people, the ability to communicate effectively, commercial awareness, and creativity are often cited as talents for a graduate career in Marketing, they are certainly also most often the exact same skills most welcomed in the world of PR.”
Erm, so, really is there a difference between a career in Marketing or PR?
“Yes, that’s the easy part and it can be summed up in one word. You.”
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