When someone says “brand”, what do you think of? Chances are, you think of large corporations like Nike, Apple, and HP. Most people wouldn’t associate the term with small businesses as it’s become a conception that it is something that’s meant for only large businesses as it’s too expensive and time-consuming for the small ones. That’s not true!
Small businesses can benefit from branding just as much as large ones. In fact, starting a business is only the first step. The following are some of the most effective strategies in the domain that are easy on the pocket:
1. Visuals
Visuals play a huge role in branding. For instance, when you think of a brand like Coca-Cola, then you can easily remember the distinct typography, iconic red color, and messaging which is “celebrate life”. That’s what powerful physical attributes can do.
The following are some of the things that you can arrange to establish a brand with visuals:
Company Logo
Your company logo is easily one of the most important things you need for branding and one of the best tips you will ever get on creating a bold brand image is to create memorable logos. This is because it can sum up the entire business i.e. its products and services, mission and vision, values, etc. The good news is that it can be created for a small price by using online logo makers i.e. programs that can automatically create fresh logos for you.
Company Website
Your company website is how your customers and potential business associates will judge you. So, if the website looks unattractive and has a poor user interface, then it can drive away a number of visitors. Again, it’s become a lot easier and cheaper to build high-quality websites. You can use a CMS like WordPress and pick a premium theme to give your current website a makeover.
Business Cards
Contrary to popular belief, business cards aren’t completely archaic yet. They are still relevant, and rather popular. However, you have to be careful to use your logo and brand style elements in the design.
2. Content Marketing
Content marketing is incredibly powerful but it’s also really cheap. This makes it perfect for small businesses that work on tight budgets.
One of the reasons why content marketing is regarded super-powerful is the fact that it works no many levels. For starters, it allows you to project yourself as an authority entity that helps in building brand loyalty and respect. Also, it gives you a strong brand voice that takes you to the masses.
If you are able to engage in content marketing, then do it by all means. Just make sure that you are aware of the latest content marketing trends so that you are able to get the best results from your efforts.
3. Exceptional Customer Service
Quality customer service can go a long way in building brand reputation. This is because word-of-mouth marketing is still as effective as ever. So, if you are able to keep your customers happy, pay attention to their feedback, and resolve their complaints on time, then you can ensure that your customer base grows and more people are attracted towards your brand.
4. Enter Partnerships
One of the ways you can accelerate brand building and its expansion is to partner with like-minded entrepreneurs who have their own distinct brands. If you want to learn how to use partnerships to improve your brand’s image then you can try the following:
- Create well-defined goals that are centered around you filling the gaps that you have identified
- Conduct a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threat Analysis)
- Reach out to potential partners based on your goals with personalized pitches
5. Capitalize on Social Media
Social media might be known as one of the most important channels for marketing. However, it can also be used for branding. The following are some of the things that you can do to go about that:
- Whatever content you create or share, make sure that you keep it as natural and “human” as possible. Remember, social media is all about making connections with real people
- Try to interact with your fans/customers by responding to their comments, personal messages, tags, etc.
- Use storytelling to appeal to the masses
There you have it- some of the most amazing branding strategies that don’t cost a lot of money. Any business, whether it’s big or small, can use them to gain a competitive advantage in the market.
These are all great branding strategies. I think networking and making partnerships is so crucial in positioning your brand (of course, only if you partner up with someone who has a good reputation).
good share!