Sales and Marketing: From the Top

Abstract

Sales and marketing are two critical components of any organization involved in business, without them, the very existence of an organization is not conceivable. Despite of their significance, the precise differences between the two always remain under a cloud of confusion. Therefore, this article presents a detailed account on the differences between sales and marketing. The differences are described in a three step manner:

1) From a historical perspective

2) By definitions available in the literature and

3) Functionality of both the components in an organizational setting.

It is also indicated that both the components should have a certain amount of independency from one another with regards to daily operations however, at the same time, sales and marketing must be completely integrated for planning and development of strategy. Finally, also mentioned are the differences which impart a positive impact on the organization and those, which can be deleterious to the organization.

Keywords: marketing, sales, differences