Internet buzz words are becoming more a part of our everyday vocabulary. Around 15 years ago the word “branding” emerged. In a nutshell, branding is what identifies your product or service over other merchants, through a picture, logo, word or even a color. Its importance is often underestimated, but it should be the first thing you do when establishing a business plan.
The word branding has been around for many years. We know it is a term used when ranchers brand their cattle in order to discern their cows from their neighbors. Branding literally means to “burn” ones mark on a product and today that is the ultimate goal of a business owner. How do they imprint their image in the minds of consumers everywhere? It is a challenge in today’s world because we all have so many options at our fingertips. If you can make your customer’s perceive and trust that your business or service is the only solution to their problem, then they will pay, not matter what the cost.
What does your company stand for? If you are unable to describe your company in simple terms, then the consumer will not be able to define you either. Come up with a few ideas and build your marketing strategy and business plan from there.
Keep in mind that branding is not about the product itself, but the customer’s perception about your product or service. It is proven that the consumer’s perception is much more important, not the facts. At the end of the day, you want to successfully brand yourself so that you will attract business and create a loyal customer. It does take time, money and consistency, but if you build your brand creatively and accurately, success will come.