Marketing vs. Advertising vs. PR: Which One Does Your Business Actually Need?

Marketing vs. Advertising vs. PR: Which One Does Your Business Actually Need?

I know exactly what it’s like to be the "everything officer" of a business. You are the visionary, the technician and the salesperson all rolled into one. So many brilliant entrepreneurs work tirelessly to build something special, only to hit a wall when it comes to "getting the word out."

"We need marketing! No, wait, advertising. Or do we need PR?"

When you’re in the thick of it, it’s completely natural to feel a bit overwhelmed by the jargon. All three fall under the same umbrella of promoting your business, but they have very different jobs. Knowing the difference is the key to spending your budget wisely and actually reaching your goals.

Here is the simplest way to break it down:

• Marketing is your map: Think of this as the logic behind your business. It’s the deep work of understanding your audience, setting your prices, and deciding which products to launch. It’s the strategy that ensures your business actually meets a need.

• Advertising is your megaphone: This is a fantastic tool for instant visibility. When you pay for an ad, you own the message and the timing. It’s you telling the world, "I have a great solution for you!" It’s direct, bold, and effective for quick reach.

• Public Relations is your gold star: While advertising is you talking about yourself, PR is about earning the trust of others like journalists, influencers, and local leaders, so they tell your story. It’s the "third-party validation" that turns a stranger into a loyal customer because someone they trust gave you a thumbs-up.

You've already built a foundation you're proud of. Now let's make sure you have the reputation to match.

Ready to see how PR can transform your business? Let me help you build a strategy to help you reach your goals.