Before we discuss why branding is important and why it is a game changer, it is important to understand what branding actually is. A common misconception when someone says about a brand is thinking that a brand is a logo. However, this is not quite true. While a logo is part of a brand, there is a lot more to it than that.
A brand is a company's identity or DNA. Every company wants to stand out and be identifiable easily by customers and potential customers. To help them do this, a brand is used. This is a visual representation of the company which falls under multiple categories. These categories include advertising; marketing; strategy; logo or visual representation; design; value, identity; and mission. In my opinion the most important of these categories is identity. Some people may disagree, but it is just my thoughts that identity makes you who you are so it is most important.
Now that I've briefly explained that brand is more than a logo, let's move on to why it is important for the success of a business. For any business, but particularly a startup or small business, one of the most important tasks you face is to grow your client base. Without clients, your business will have no chance to succeed. For your clientele to grow, customers need to be able to see you and your products, but being seen is only half of the task. For you to be successful, it is important that your business is memorable. This is where branding comes into play. Branding allows customers to remember you and helps them to build trust in you.
Branding is used to define you as a company, and can influence not only what people see of your company but also what people think about you. A strong brand can make customers to see you as trustworthy and reliable. Whatever look and feel you are seeking from your company, this is achieved and perceived through your branding.
What does branding actually do for you? As previously mentioned, branding is not just a logo. It goes much deeper than that. One of the benefits of a strong brand is to attract customers. When customers are looking for a business for a specific use, they tend to research the companies they come across. If your brand is recognizable, consistent and fully developed then customers are more likely to use you. If the branding is complete and developed, then it is likely to help build trust. If someone sees your brand and it is strong, then people will know what you can do and what to expect from your services. If your brand is disjointed, then they will think your work will be the same.
When looking for a company to use, people normally do what they do with food. They shop with their eyes. Before people look at your pricing or anything else, your brand has to catch their attention. Strong branding can therefore build a connection with the customers and potential customers. The more customers you get, the more money you will make. If your brand helps you to get more clients then it will increase your business value which in turn will help your company to grow. Your brand can take advantage of the new trends and can grow with the times.
If this blog has helped you to decide that you need a new brand or that your branding needs some refinement, then reach out to us and see how we can help you to grow the way that you deserve to.