Looking to up-level your brand strategy? We applaud your smart thinking! Nobody wants a weak brand, yet many companies fail to do the work upfront that it takes to create a consistent, effective brand that generates results. But not you. If you’re here, you’re already headed in the right direction. So, let’s get to it, shall we?
7 Brand Strategy Tips
Understand the Brand
We made the first step rhyme so it lives rent-free in your head for all eternity. That’s how important it is. Understanding your purpose, values, and target audience is the MOST critical aspect of implementing a strong brand. Think of it as the foundation on which your brand is built. A strong foundation will help you create a brand identity that resonates with the target audience and aligns with the brand’s values. A weak foundation will ultimately crumble and you’ll be left picking up the pieces.
Conduct Market Research
Equally as important as understanding your own brand is understanding where it fits in the marketplace. It is essential to conduct market research to understand the competitive landscape and identify the brand’s unique selling proposition (USP). This will help you create a brand positioning that sets you apart from your competitors. You are unlikely to be the only brand in your industry, so you need to make sure to stand out for all the right reasons.
Develop a Brand Strategy
Now that you have an idea of who you are and where you fit in, you can put it all together and craft a comprehensive strategy. This will include brand positioning, messaging, brand identity, and brand architecture. Without going through steps 1 and 2 fully, you won’t be able to complete this step. So, if you are struggling here, make sure you revisit previous steps to set up a strong foundation.
Create a Brand Identity
Now the fun really begins. Your brand gets to be brought to life! Develop a visual identity that includes the logo, color palette, typography, and imagery that reflects the brand’s personality and resonates with the target audience.
Develop Brand Guidelines
Once you have your brand identity established, you need to create guidelines to ensure it doesn’t lose its integrity down the road. Call out how to implement the brand across all touchpoints, including digital and offline. This will ensure brand consistency and help build brand recognition. Think of it as an instruction manual for your brand and keep it enforced.
Build Brand Awareness
Now that you are committed to maintaining your brand’s look and feel, use that to build a following. Use a variety of marketing channels to build brand awareness and reach the target audience. This can include social media, influencer marketing, public relations, and advertising.
Measure Brand Performance
Alright, you’ve established your brand, and now is the time to measure its progress. Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure brand performance and track progress over time. This will help you make data-driven decisions and refine the brand strategy as needed.
By following these tips, you can create a strong brand that resonates with your target audience and builds long-term brand loyalty. You’re just 7 steps away from success. Go you!