If you’re not a brand expert, branding can be a tough subject to fully understand. Especially when there is so much information floating around the internet about branding that is definitely not true.
I’m here to help put those ideas to rest so you can start making smart brand decisions for your business. Here are some of the popular branding myths or misunderstandings I’ve seen pop up in conversations on social media and around the web.
01. Your brand should be all about you.
It’s your brand so it should be all about you, right? Well no. A self-centered brand isn’t going to catch anyone’s attention but yours… and what would be the point of that? It’s true, you are the creator of the brand, but the real strength of your brand lies in its ability to connect with others. You do that by creating a brand that’s centered around your customers. What do they like? What are their problems? What do they need? Your brand should be built on these answers.
Related Post: The Essential Guide to Branding for Female Entrepreneurs
02. Your logo is the most important part of your brand.
Truth: Logos are fun to make and look at! BUT, a logo is not the most important part of your brand. That may be surprising to hear from a logo designer, but your brand visuals like your logo and color palette are just one piece of the (brand) puzzle. If you are only focusing on your brand’s outward appearance and not also on market research, messaging, and audience profiles, your brand is going to be a hollow shell – pretty on the outside but with no substance underneath. Who wants that?!
03. Your brand (and logo) doesn’t really matter.
When your business is more like a hobby you can get away with not investing as much in your outward appearance and customer experience. But as it evolves into a legitimate business and the demand for your product/service increases, at some point you’ll probably increase your prices. Naturally, with increased prices, people will expect more from your offerings. Part of that expectation calls for an elevated brand experience, visuals included. A well put-together brand will give buyers the confidence that what they are spending their money on is worth the investment.
Related Post: Branding Matters: Show Your Brand Assets Some Love!
04. You should spend lots of $$$ on your brand when starting out.
It’s true that you should consider branding your business as an investment, but that doesn’t mean you have to sink your life savings into it. If you’ve just created your business it may be a smart move to DIY your logo or other brand elements while you are starting out. Once you’ve established yourself and proven your business as a viable pursuit, then you should start saving. A professional logo design can really help set your business apart and attract a new kind of clientele.
05. Cohesive branding is only for big businesses.
Every business has a brand – even if they don’t know it! Some people invest money and are very strategic with their brand while other’s may not give a second thought to it. But, it’s not all about having a beautiful logo design or fashionable look – The core of branding is about your business’s purpose and how it can solve your ideal client’s problems. The more you can operate by this principle within your business, the more likely you will be successful. So whether, you are a big or small business, having a cohesive brand, can benefit you exponentially.
What do you think? Have you heard any of these branding myths before? Or maybe you have another question about branding? Let me know in the comments!
I help female entrepreneurs and business owners create brands that command the spotlight. I love working with women to help them create beautiful, one-of-a-kind brands that give them the confidence to take their business to the next level and get them seriously noticed. I’ve worked with coaches, authors, influencers… you name it, and I bet I can help you too.
