What do you think a “Brand” is?
Is it creating a visual image? Does this visual image, your logo, bring you clientele and set the tone for your business?
NO!
I know, I know. I thought the same thing you did, and most people do too so you’re not alone. But now I’m going to give you 3 key steps you should know as you dive into the world of entrepreneurship.
WHAT’S MOST IMPORTANT?
We’ve reached the crossroad of all questions. Did the chicken come before the egg or vise versa? So what comes first? The logo or the brand? You may be thinking they’re the same, but they are totally different. Branding starts way before the logo process. Let’s find out the keys to unlocking these questions.
KEY 1 – Know who you are
I’m sure you have something spectacular to offer the world. But does the world understand and know what it is and who you are?
Keep in mind that YOU should be clear in telling (or showing) people who you are and how you can help them. Steer clear of an unclear message. Be precise and consistent in your description about you, that way no one is confused in the long run and you don’t come off like a flake.
KEY 2 – Be a problem solver
Ok now I know you feel that what you do can solve all problems, but truth is every problem is not for you to solve.
You have a particular set of skills that can only be delivered in the way that you do it. So what is it? Think long and hard about this one, because you will need to stick with this and incorporate that in everything as you build your brand.
Think of a client in your head that struggles with that particular problem. Now, how will your solving ability (or product, or service) be their superman…or woman?
Narrow down the type of people you can help. That will be the person that needs your services the most. Write down who they are, even down to their personality, income, and problems. Focus on their needs and how you can be an asset to them.
KEY 3 – You are the Brand
If you haven’t heard of Julia “Juju” Hook, she is a brand expert with a wealth of experience in branding. And one important question she asks you to do is to describe who your brand would be if it were a person. Awesome question right?!
Is your brand a Beyonce or Anderson Cooper? Is it energetic and wild or conservative and politically driven? You don’t want to create something that looks nothing like your or does not hold your values or principles as a person. Let the brand be an active part of you and the best part of you.
These 3 key steps to build your brand are just a few steps out of many, but this is a great place to start. Know who you are and build your business from that, and everything else will fall in place.
Hope this helped you. Write in the comments what steps you’re taking to building a phenomenal brand.
Until next time!
Christyl
