marketing vs. sales: similarities

If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is, I break it down for you here. So the next time you’re standing around at a cocktail party or maybe in an elevator and feel the need to strike up a conversation, you’ll be ready. That’s right, you’ll know exactly why marketing and sales are often lumped together and just what the difference is between the two activities. Here’s a look at marketing vs. sales: similarities and differences.

Marketing vs. sales: the similarities & differences

Marketing involves designing a product according to the needs of the market and customers, promoting the product through advertising etc. and setting up a competitive price for the product. Marketing is a platform which drives sales. The sales process is what you do to successfully sell a product and win the business.

Sales and marketing work together, both activities depend on each other and are necessary to the success of a business.

Marketing is the backbone of a company’s future and launching pad for the sales. While the marketing process encompasses items such as, the design of the product, branding, advertising and promotion, the sales process is the execution of all the efforts. Marketing happens behind the scenes, sales is front and center. Sales involves direct interaction with client either by in-person meeting or cold calls or by networking.

Despite the fact that both activities are crucial to success, there always seems to be this ongoing rivalry between the two. Marketing people say they have are most important because they determine design, branding, campaigns, strategies and even help develop the necessary tools essential for the sales team. Sales people seem to hold to the idea that since they are the ones out in the trenches actively prospecting, networking and selling that it is their team driving the company’s growth. The truth is both are correct, and both are necessary.

Marketing drives sales and sales drives companies’ success.

Marketing vs. sales: two sides of the same coin

The most important role of marketing department is to create opportunities for the sales department. A successful marketing campaign will make the sales process easier. Marketing is the foundation of sales. Sales success begins with the ability to understand your target market and the ability to reach the demands of that market. Both teams must work together to understand the company’s ideal market and develop and implement strategies tap that market. Whether you’re in sales or marketing, one thing is for certain, it is the integration of these two entities that fuel a company’s growth.

And there you have it, a bit of clarity on two departments that often share a friendly rivalry!

Ready to grow your business through targeted marketing that leads to sales? Check out the 3 part training series designed to help cut through the frustration and overwhelm of expanding your business online and learn steps you can implement immediately to reach your ideal market.

Have a question you’d like answered? Send to: support@kimkelleythompson.com