What does having a brand really mean?
What exactly is branding, and why do you need it? The brand is an essential element of any successful business. It’s more than just a logo or a tagline—it's the overall perception that people have of your company. A strong brand can help you stand out in the marketplace, differentiate yourself from your competitors, and build trust and credibility with your customers.
Here are some ways you can go about starting your brand.
You can do it yourself! There are plenty of tools on the market that you can use to build your own branding. Canva being a personal favourite for those of us who may be less technically or creatively inclined.
You can hire a freelancer! The internet is never short of hardworking professionals who can support you reach your goals. Investing in someone with the tools and experience might be the best option. You can hire someone local or you can use websites like fiverr or upwork to choose someone to create your branding. Sometimes this can be a huge weight off your shoulders! If you’re a marketer, don’t be shy to outsource things that aren’t in your wheelhouse!
You can hire an agency! This would likely cost the most, but also be the most holistic approach. You might not be there yet in your business, but an agency has access to a list of specialists who can help you set up your brand perfectly from the start. The job will have graphic designers, content specialists, SEO specialists, ad word specialists and so on. Don’t stress about things being perfect. Not everyone has this kind of budget starting out.
Here are a few key reasons why a strong brand is important for your business:
It helps you stand out from the competition: In today's crowded marketplace, it's important to differentiate yourself from your competitors. A strong brand can help you do this by creating a unique and memorable image that sets you apart from the competition.
It builds trust and credibility: A strong brand can help you build trust and credibility with your customers. When people know and trust your brand, they are more likely to do business with you and to recommend you to others.
It helps you connect with your customers: A strong brand can help you connect with your customers on an emotional level. By creating a brand that resonates with your audience, you can create a connection that goes beyond just selling a product or service.
It can increase customer loyalty: When customers have a positive association with your brand, they are more likely to be loyal to your business. This can lead to repeat business and long-term customer relationships.
So how do you build a great brand? What do you need? Now, I am not saying you can’t build an amazing brand on your own, but the average person running their small business isn’t usually a graphic designer or brand specialist.
As the business owner or marketer, you can create the core elements needed on your own. There are plenty of tools available to build a logo and the visual baseline for your brand. You will also want to take the time to understand what either your or your clients business is all about. Define a clear and concise brand message so people know what the company is all about. This message should be unique and memorable, and should communicate the value that your business offers to customers.
Build relationships with your customers by providing high-quality products and services, and by engaging with them on social media and other channels. This can help to create a positive perception of your brand in the minds of consumers.
Be consistent and persistent in your branding efforts. Building a strong brand takes time and effort, so it's important to stay focused and dedicated to your goals. Don’t give up!
A strong brand is an important foundation for any business. It helps you stand out. It helps you connect. It helps you reach your audience and it helps you communicate your ‘why’ as a company. Making an impression from day one will help you stand out!
