Is there true definition of marketing? Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary states that marketing is, “the process or technique of promoting, selling, and distributing a product or service.” The word marketing is possibly derived from the Latin word mercatus, which translates from marketplace referencing the Village Marketplace. 

It is not the dictionary’s job to tell us how to market. And it is easy to get lost in all the types of marketing: email, content, B2B, influencer just to name a few. 

When we think in terms of the Greek reference to the Village Marketplace, is marketing a place or a verb, or just a thing?

In the process of communicating to individuals about a product, service, or organization, marketing can become manipulative. Several brands have been utilizing manipulative neuromarketing (which is a fancy word for the psychology of marketing) tactics for years. Prominent examples: does everyone remember Disney’s ‘vault’ and McDonald’s special McRib ‘farewell tour’? 

The marketplace and the act of marketing will never go away, nor should it. How else are we going to find running shoes and potato chips and pillows for our home? Ultimately, marketing can be understood and accepted as a form of communication, announcements to the general public, and commercials for life-saving medicines. 

Marketing is not an easy discipline. It takes experience, training and education. Hopefully, the person managing your marketing is aware of trends and market analysis for your industry and customer base. 

One thing is certain, leave the marketing up to the professionals to communicate the message of your brand coherently and consistently.