Why branding is worth its weight in gold.

Branding is one of those juicy topics that divides designers and non-designers. The success of your business hangs in the balance by the identity you surround it with. Your brand is who. you. are. Simple. And the effect of not investing in your brand now, could cost you even more later.

“Branding is all of the ways you establish an image of your company in your customers’ eyes.”

The quote pretty much sums up that it is the customer - the customer - that sees and perceives your brand, and ultimately how they interact with your product or service. It’s not about your favourite shade of blue or a pretty font you like. I know that sounds harsh, but it’s the truth. At it’s core, your branding is more a reflection of your ideal customer than of you as a business owner.

Good branding is the tip of the iceberg and under the water all you see is strategy. Strategy, strategy, strategy. This deep dive into your customer and business is to discover and refine your mission, your values, why and who you do it for and ultimately why people will (and should) choose to buy from you.

It’s then that all that good stuff - the beautiful fonts, the perfect colour palettes, the custom illustrations, the perfect little icons all balance together into an aligned strategy that will reel in your quintessential audience and turn them into not only customers, but your biggest fans. And these are the people that will spread the good word about your business (Free marketing? Yes please!).

Why should you invest in branding? And what it will cost you if you don’t.

Building an honest, strategic and intentional brand is the single most important thing you can do for the success of your business. No joke. Every decision you make is based on a brand. Apple or Samsung? Nike or Adidas? Kmart or The Iconic? Each brand has played a specific in role in converting consumers. It’s no accident you choose certain brands. So, it is absolutely crucial that you attract the right target audience, build a loyal and engaged following and stand out from your competition. And for this to be successful, you need to invest. Not just your money, but your time and energy.

As a designer, I am constantly sticking up for myself to people that have the perception that design work, including branding, is overpriced, or at the very least, expensive. Knowledge is power, and that is a lot of what branding is. Knowledge. What these people don’t realise is

a) the number of hours of behind the scenes work and hours that go into designing a brand

b) the real cost of using amateur or DIY branding that has no significance to their business.

Business owners need to remember that branding is an investment. A solid brand will do the work for you. Your brand will reach, connect, build trust and ultimately make sales to your ideal audience.

If your branding is no longer working for you, it’s time for a re-brand.

If you have any questions about branding or re-branding your business, please reach out and say hello!

Are you ready to invest in your business and brand? Let’s chat!

K