Definition for Marketing

People always ask me, "What is the definition for marketing?". Well, how do you explain something that is constantly changing?

Here's the thing: It is hard to come up with a definition for marketing because definitions vary and marketing is always trying step up the excitement and drive potential customers wild and into the arms of salespeople. Sales and marketing are two sides of the same coin.

Here's one definition:

Main Entry: mar•ket•ing Pronunciation: ˈmär-kə-tiŋ

Function: noun

Date: 1561

1 a: the act or process of selling or purchasing in a market. b: the process or technique of promoting, selling, and distributing a product or service. 2: an aggregate of functions involved in moving goods from producer to consumer (Source: Merriam-Webster).

                     

The definition for marketing may not have changed since 1561 but the business world sure has! Gold coins were frequently used back then but most people prefer their credit cards now, don’t they?

How about this?

marketing • noun. The promotion and selling of products or services (Source: Ask Oxford).

Well that seems a little short for something that takes a great deal of energy!

What would Oxford's marketing department have to say about that?

I prefer the Merriam-Webster definition, myself, in particular: the “aggregate of functions involved in moving goods from producer to consumer.”

Let’s go with that.

The function of marketing is really the nut that everyone is trying to crack. What is good for other businesses may not be the best choice for you. This is very important to keep in mind. The "right" marketing for your business is something that is customized just for you. Social networking is the fastest thing going these days but getting your head around it for your business may be a little intimidating. There are other, simpler, things you can do to get your feet wet, like advertising in your local paper or sending out thank you cards to your existing clients. When was the last time you received an actual Thank You card in the mail? Your customers would be so impressed.

Everyone loves success!

A realtor I know uses the closing line, “I am never too busy for your referrals.” It works great!