I want you to choose between the brands that I am going to mention now:
- Tim Hortons vs Starbucks
- Nike vs Adidas
- Apple vs Microsoft
- RBC and TD
- Bell vs Rogers
Have you ever noticed that every day you choose one brand over another?
Why?
What is a brand?
Branding goes way beyond just a logo or graphic element. People wear brands, eat brands, listen to brands. It’s simply the shorthand statement of who you are and what you can do for someone.
When you think about a brand, you really should think about the entire customer experience from the visual identity like the logo to the way that phones are answered, tells the customer about the kind of company that you are.
Are all these points of entry telling the right story?
A story is something we all do—in our company and in our personal lives. It’s the story we tell someone when we meet them, “Hi, my name is Arezu and I’m a Creative Director at a branding agency.” It’s the “I’m Batman” moment.
Why is branding so important for a business?
A lot of people have a hard time doing those simple things. A lot of companies cannot succinctly and interestingly tell you what they do, who they do it for and why they do it. They just can’t. It’s as if this whirlpool of nuance and details begins swirling at their feet churning up mud until the waters are so dark nobody can see through them. And what happens when something is difficult?
People don’t do it. They give up.
A good brand communicates a clear story.
Companies with clear stories are valued higher by customers and investors.
Why Poor Branding Can Hurt Your Business:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Blending in with the competition or inconsistently presenting your brand.
Branding is like a magic wand that gives businesses their own special sparkle. It’s not just about standing out from the crowd; it’s about leaving a lasting impression on people’s minds. Think of it as wearing a signature outfit that everyone recognizes you by. When a business sticks to its visual style and message, it becomes a familiar face in the marketplace. Customers feel more comfortable doing business with brands they know.
In today’s global market having a standout brand is essential. Your brand is like a spotlight that shines on what makes you special and worth noticing., in a nutshell, effective branding isn’t just about being different; it’s about being memorable.
Failing to align branding with core values or connect emotionally with your audience.
Branding is a window into a company’s heart. It shows what they believe in. And when people connect with those values, they start talking. Whether it’s through a catchy logo or a friendly chat with a customer service, every part of branding shapes how people see a business.
And here’s the thing: when people love a brand, they can’t wait to tell others about it. But if a brand doesn’t leave a mark, it gets lost in the shuffle., it’s not just about being seen; it’s about being unforgettable and starting conversations that last.
Inconsistent messaging or failing to deliver on promises.
Branding’s a promise of quality and dedication. When a business maintains consistent messaging and delivers on promises, it builds trust with customers. This trust isn’t just about the product or service; it’s about the owner’s unwavering dedication to meeting customer needs.
A strong brand is like a rock-solid handshake, it reassures customers that they’re in good hands. And when your brand speaks loud and clear about your values and commitments, customers know they can rely on you. Remember, your brand isn’t just what you show the world; it’s a reflection of your dedication to your customers’ satisfaction.
