Being a new entrepreneur is full of many challenges. Not only do you have to figure out all of the legalities of owning a company, but you have to develop the look and feel of your company. It can be extremely difficult and overwhelming. Many times, new entrepreneur become engulfed in everything, and they leave out what I believe to be one of the most important areas of running a business: branding.
Essentially, branding is how people recognize and label your company. Customers will associate different items, qualities, and expectations to your brand. These can be good or bad. I believe finding your brand voice can be one of the most powerful things you can do for your company.
One of the first steps to take in developing your brand is to figure out a common denominator that will be shown throughout every aspect of what you produce and deliver. For example, joy is a huge part of my company. I aim to showcase joy in everything I do: photos, poses, emails, blogs, and Instagram posts. I want people to think of Haley Nicole Photography and think “wow, this is a really happy and joyful place.” Another part of my branding is the color red. Maybe you’ve noticed, I use this color EVERYWHERE!! This doesn’t have to be an emotion for you, maybe it’s a color or style, but find something that you can put into everything.
This is one of my favorite things to do with a company. I visualize the company as a person and think, “What would Haley Nicole Photography wear if it was a person?” Another way to do this exercise is to ask, “If Haley Nicole Photography was a room in a house, how would it be decorated?” Now apply these answers to your company’s branding guidelines. These questions allow you to visualize the company in a different way than normal. It allows your brain to see from a different vantage point, and plus, I think it’s pretty fun too!
Whatever you decide to do, stick with it! Customers need to be able to latch on to your company. If you’re constantly changing the look and feel, consumers are not able to grow a relationship. This can be difficult for new entrepreneurs who are afraid to commit to a look or feel. Don’t make this decision more difficult than it needs to be. Pick a look and feel for your company and stick with it. Consistency is KEY in growing a great company.
I am so excited to share more educational content to help grow small businesses. If you have any specific questions, feel free to contact me!
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