Public Relations vs. Marketing: What's the dif?

Public relations and marketing are two tools every business needs to succeed. But why? And what exactly is the difference between the two? Not to fret, we’re breaking it all down for you -- read on for the 411. 

Hubspot defines marketing as, “the process of getting people interested in your company's product or service. This happens through market research, analysis, and understanding your ideal customer's interests. Marketing pertains to all aspects of a business, including product development, distribution methods, sales, and advertising.”

Whereas public relations professionals, “help a business or individual cultivate a positive reputation with the public through various unpaid or earned communications, including traditional media, social media, and in-person engagements. They also help clients defend their reputation during a crisis that threatens their credibility.”

Confusing? Maybe. Essential? Definitely. 

There’s one specific word in that PR definition that changes everything: earned. PR is based off of solid storytelling, nurtured relationships, trust, and engagement. That means that the article you’re reading in Cosmo or Vogue is written because the reporter believed in the story, and wanted to share it with consumers. The slick Gucci ad on the first page, on the other hand, is there because a marketing team paid for its placement.

Let’s not get it twisted - marketing and PR work best when they work in tandem, not against each other. When utilized correctly and efficiently, marketing and PR amplify each other’s strengths to make sure a brand’s goals are reached. 

Here at RPM (in case you haven’t caught on), we’re proud to be a boutique public relations firm that focuses primarily on lifestyle brands, while taking a holistic approach in working with your team. From brand messaging, to media relations, social media management, influencer relations, event consulting, and creative services, our overall goal is to influence target audiences on behalf of our clients.

And that, friends, is what we love to do.