Without consciously acknowledging it, the design of a website, business card or advertisement impacts our initial impression of a business.
For instance, when searching for a new dentist in my area, I subconsciously ruled out those dentists whose sites seemed very dated, or had poor functionality. This proves that industry-wide, the visual identity of your brand is significant.
In this episode I’m discussing the 5 common branding mistakes to avoid.
When it comes to your business, here are a few pitfalls you can easily avoid, in order to make your brand identity as quality as your business is!
AVOIDING ESTABLISHING A BRAND IDENTITY
One major mistake businesses make regarding branding, is undervaluing the impact of a quality brand identity. I am always shocked when businesses request design services such as a website, PDF worksheets/flyers, or any other promotional piece, when they do not have a brand identity established yet. I understand cutting costs when starting your business, however there is no way around producing marketing materials without a brand identity. Even if you only have a website, you still are required to establish a look + feel. What colors evoke your brand? What typefaces speak to your audience? Photography style? You get the gist. It is necessary and actually such a fun way to see your vision come to light.
PURCHASING A CHEAP LOGO
There are several sites that offer logos as cheap as $50. While this may seem like a great way to save money up front, I urge you… don’t do it! You will be guaranteed to end up with a logo that does not reflect your vision, value or quality you deserve. Also, you are most likely going to replace this cheap logo down the road, so really you are spending more money by having to hire this service twice. You deserve quality, and it is best to establish a cohesive brand up front.
TRYING THE DIY (Do It Yourself) METHOD
I totally understand wanting to have control over every aspect of your business, however it is best to stick with what you do best. Whether that is photography, event planning or creating products, you should spend your energy there. This is hired out photography for my. Sure I could have tried to take some photos, however I know what skill sets I am best at, so I chose to let the professionals do what they do best.
Though you may know your way around Photoshop, brand identity designers are better suited to reflect your business in the best way possible. This will save you loads of time and grief.
CHANGING YOUR BRANDING FREQUENTLY
If you are constantly revising your brand identity drastically, it is most likely due to the desire to conform to design trends. You want to build a timeless brand, rather than one that constantly shifts. Through sticking with one brand identity, you build a cohesive brand, that in turn reflects immediate recognition and trust among your followers and advocates.
RUSHING THROUGH THE PROCESS
Though you may feel overwhelmed with the growth you are seeing in your business, I urge you to not take the brand identity process lightly. Take time to invest in defining the vision behind your brand, and discover your business purpose. These details help your designer truly reflect your business, so that you are left with a brand that just fits you perfectly! By taking the time up front, you are less likely to re-brand in the future, or to despise your current brand.
If you went with a cheap logo option, as mentioned above, you as well as the designer most likely did not take the time to invest in your brand. You want to avoid being left with a brand identity that you’re embarrassed of, or feel doesn’t reflect your vision.
HOW TO AVOID THESE PITFALLS
The best way to avoid these common mistakes in your brand is to invest the time up front. Try to understand what makes your business unique, as well as define your purpose. Once you have a good grasp of your vision, hire a quality designer to give a face to your brand, and help build a cohesive design. If you would like to work with me for your brand identity and needs, I have several options to help you get the ball rolling!
