BRANDING: What is it, and Why is it Important?

I guess we should answer this question first: What is branding?

Branding is so much more than just a logo or business card design, your brand is the way the world sees you.

Most budding businesses fail to see the bigger picture of branding, and don't even realize the impact it has on their business. Did you know
8 out of 10 US consumers will continue to buy a brand they trust, even if another brand suddenly becomes hot and trendy?

Below is a list of 5 reasons why branding is everything.

“Your brand is the sum total of how someone perceives a particular organization. Branding is about shaping that perception.”

— Ashley Friedlein, founder and CEO of Guild

• Your Brand Tells Your Clients Who You Are as a Business

  Everything about your business (from your social media presence, to your client interactions and the way you market yourself) is a key part to your brand, and it shows your client base just how much you respect your business.
  
  What does your brand say about you?

• Branding Sets You Apart From Your Competition

  How do you stand out from thousands of similar businesses that claim to be as good as you, if not better? Unfortunately, in the modern age, you are no longer only dealing with competition at a local level - you're competing with the entire world. 

• Branding Builds Trust and Rapport

  The more your client knows you and your business- the more they will trust you. However, it is impossible for a new client to know you right away. This is where your brand comes in! A combination of a professional appearance (designs & communication with clientele), an overall great customer experience, and an active social media presence-you will relay the message to your clients that every single step you take is with them in mind.

• A Strong Brand Generates Client Referrals

  The best advertising you can ever have is FREE- word of mouth. 78% of US consumers say they always recommend the brand when someone asks. People tell others about the brands they like- and who else are you going to listen to more than someone you know and trust? A strong and memorable brand with a good customer rapport will lead to people talking- and that's what you want!

• Branding Inspires Your Employees

  Most people need more than just a job to work. They need something or someone to work for. When you have a strong brand- it showcases everything that you love about your business. Your love and respect for your business alone can inspire your employees to feel the same way. When employees understand the mission of a business and its reason for being, they are more likely to feel that same pride and work in the same direction to achieve the goals the business owner has set.