You’ve finally decided to start your own business and there are a lot of big decisions ahead of you.
One of them is how to brand your business.
Should you invest hundreds or thousands of dollars into professionally designed branding, or is a DIY brand the right option for you?
Only you can answer that question, however, there are some important branding tips you should know for launching your startup business.
I’ve worked with a lot of different clients since I started Sugar Studios in 2011. One thing they’ve all had in common is that they needed my help with branding.
As a branding and design expert, I’m here to tell you that branding is more than just a logo. It’s how your business connects with your audience and builds relationships.
Here are 4 branding tips you’ll want to consider when launching a startup business…
1. Find the Pain Points of Your Target Audience
What problem are you solving for your customers? Think about why they are seeking your help and how you may be able to make a difference in their lives. Being of service to others is my #1 branding tip, because it actually works, plus it feels really good to help other people out. Read more about my number one tip for building your brand.
2. Create a Brand Board and Stick to It
Clients are always telling me how valuable the brand board is that I’ve created for them. They print it out and keep it near their desk as a guide to how their brand should be styled. Your brand board can include inspirational imagery, fonts, colors, logos, submarks and patterns that should all be used consistently in your branding. Read my post on exactly how to create a brand board for your business.
3. Introduce Yourself and Tell Your Story
Every business has a story behind it. Mine is that I wanted a way to work from home while raising our family. I love designing brands and websites and working with other entrepreneurs, especially ones who are also moms. You can use my free workbook to help find the ultimate way to tell your brand story.
I tell my brand story throughout this website and on social media. Telling your story just once on social media is never enough. Every day you have new followers who want to hear your story, it’s your opportunity to connect with your audience on a personal level. Don’t be afraid to repeat your message over and over again!
4. Invest in Your Brand the Smart Way
There are a lot of expenses when starting a new business. You’ll need to figure out the smartest way to invest in your brand – and choose the investments that will get you the most in return. For my business, I invested in brand photography and copywriting. These were two things I couldn’t do on my own and I knew they would make a major difference in my business.
To figure out the smartest way to invest in your brand, think about what investment will attract the most customers, help tell your brand story and is something you absolutely cannot do on your own.
I'm a former corporate employee who decided to ditch the 9-5 and start my own business. Stick with me while I share my best business tips, design advice and website how-to's.