Why is Branding Important For Small Businesses?
Branding is what sets you apart from every other company out there. It's all about creating an image, a vibe, a feeling - something that sticks with people long after they've seen your logo or heard your name. And let's be real, it's not just about having a beautiful logo or a fancy tagline, it's about the whole package.
Visual
First off, let's talk about visual identity, also known as branding design. This is the visual representation of your brand, the look, and the feel. It's your logo, color scheme, typography, imagery, and packaging design. A strong visual identity is what makes people remember you, it's what makes you stand out in a sea of mediocrity. But it's not just about looking good, it's about creating a consistent image across all your marketing materials.
Voice
Next up, we have your brand voice. This is the tone and style of communication you use, it's the language, messaging, and tone used in advertising, social media, and customer service. A consistent brand voice is crucial, it's what makes people trust and believe in you. It's what makes you sound like you know what the hell you're talking about. Your brand voice can be whatever you want it to be. If you want to cuss, then get your ass out there and do it. If you want to call all of your customers your BFFs, then set that precedent early on. Whatever your voice is, make sure it’s authentic to your business and represents who you want to become.
Values
And finally, we have your mission statement. This is a brief statement that outlines your brand's purpose and values. It's a clear and concise statement that defines your vision and the reason for your existence. A strong mission statement not only guides the direction of your brand but also serves as a source of inspiration for your employees and customers. I encourage clients to tap into their authentic selves and define their core values first. Then I challenge them to craft a bold and genuine mission statement that truly represents their business, and then refine it into a kickass "elevator pitch" that leaves a lasting impression when they're asked "what's your business all about?".
In short, branding is what separates you from every other business in your industry. It's about creating an image and a voice that people can't forget. It's about having a mission and a set of values that people can get behind. So, if you want to be the next big thing, invest in your branding now.
