branding

So, you’ve started your small business. As a business owner, you want to spread the message of your brand and let customers know the model, practices, and values of your business. Knowing your brand strategy and how it connects to your customers is the key to having a successful business. Here are a few branding tips to lead your business on the fast track to success.

By Brooke Chaplan

Understand Your Target Market
As you are establishing your business, it is important to consider the people and demographics of who your business is aiming to serve, also known as a target market. Consider who your business appeals to and if the products and message of your business align with your prospective customers. Having a clear sense of your desired market helps to establish a customer base and increases the likelihood of returning clients.

Address The Needs of Customers
Businesses operate under the function of providing specific goods and services. When your business connects with customers, it is important for your brand to communicate how your company will address this need. For example, let’s look at two different construction companies. Company A and Company B both promote the construction of commercial properties. Company A advertises itself as a one-stop shop and lists their services. Company B also features a list of services, also includes a list of previous customers and reviews. Which company seems more trustworthy? If you answered Company B, you’re on the way to telling a better branding story with proof points.

Use Proof Points
A proof point is a way to show evidence of a positive customer experience. While some companies are able to write a clear and succinct mission, it is important for customers to know that you are not blowing smoke. Use customer reviews and quotes to show how your business addresses the needs of customers and how your business provided a solution. This is a clear and effective way to emphasize customer experience and what a new client will gain by selecting your company.

Use Visuals

Whether in logo, brand name, or website, use visuals to represent and easily call your company to mind. It should be catchy, different, and unique to you and your company. Graphic design companies can help narrow your focus and give you the logo you’re looking for. Use this opportunity to improve the overall presentation of your business as well. Your building might needs this construction administration solution from Sullivan Engineering to give an older look an update and improve the visual representation you get from customers.

Let these tips act as a guide to creating the most positive experience in connecting to customers. When building your business, consider your brand as the tool in your toolbox, and the customer as the finished product. Just like any project, it is crucial to understand the function of these tools and, while each serve a different purpose, all of them work together to lay a foundation to build your successful business.

Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most her time hiking, biking and gardening. For more information, contact Brooke via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.