If You Build Trust, They Will Come

There’s no denying consumers crave a deeper connection with the companies they do business with. That’s why having a fancy website and logo isn’t enough to define your brand anymore. So, it’s very important to thoughtfully create a personal brand that truly shares who you are and what you stand for.

If a brand isn’t appealing to your audience or not genuine, it can repel customers. But the process of creating a brand can be intimidating for some.  Let’s break down some tips on how you can avoid branding blunders when it comes to helping instead of harming your business.

1. Have a Personal Brand

Whether you intentionally create a brand or not, every communication and experience you have with customers and potential customers is shaping your brand.

That’s why it’s critical to create a positive brand communication. If you don’t take time to define your brand, your message can get wishy washy. That lack of clarity will hurt your marketing efforts.

2. Be Original

Often when people start out in business they think that imitating their top competitors is a good idea. Don’t imitate, instead innovate.

Accentuate what makes you unique. Differentiate yourself. Show why your differences make you a better choice. Do this by creating signature systems, products and messaging that sets you apart.

3. Be Authentic

Some people take a dress-up approach to branding. They feel like they must be something they are not in order to attract customers. Authenticity in marketing matters more than anything. Being honest and transparent builds trust.

A brand should be genuine and always maintain consistent messaging that is in alignment with your personality and brand.

4. Be Consistent

Your personal brand promise and message should be clear with every communication.

The more consistent your brand is, the stronger it will attract followers. As you write blog posts, eBooks and social media posts etc., make sure the thoughts, opinions and information shared is consistent with your personal brand.

Every communication should reflect your brand personality and values.

5. Write Your Own Stuff

Content marketing helps you develop leadership in your industry. Your fans want to hear from you – not the same old thing that everyone else is writing.

Every time you write it’s a communication that builds a relationship with your followers. They experience your personality and voice. Every time you write a blog, article or tips, you are establishing yourself as a subject matter expert.

Writing unique articles also boosts your website SEO.

6. Define Your Niche

No business can be all things to all people. It’s really important to define your target market. Period.

The more you can narrow down your target market the better; otherwise, you risk confusing your customers and you’ll have a harder time attracting your ideal client.

7. Be Gracious

Everyone has a tribe, the group of people with whom you have a reciprocal unconditional love and connection. Raving fans will tell the world how amazing you are. That’s why it’s important to give special treatment to your tribe.

Find your tribe. Reward them.  Give them special offers. Allow them behind-the-scene peaks. Share advanced notice about things in the pipeline.

8. Be Professional

The Internet knows all.  So, if you make a mistake, someone’s going to catch it.  For example, when you send a newsletter with typos or broken links it reflects poorly on your brand. When your customer has a problem and calls customer service, they want their issue resolved.

It may seem petty, but pay attention to your appearance. Watch the language you share on social media. Your demeanor should be humble not arrogant. Display ethical behavior when attending public events. Answer the phone professionally.

All of the above components don’t necessarily make up your brand, but they do back it up.  Take a look at how you want people to view you, your business, the experience they have when doing business with you.  If you are consistent, professional and genuine, you will be sure to get repeat customers and best of all – referrals!

If you need help developing and maintaining your personal or business branding, contact the experts at SK Consulting.  From Concept.  To Creation.  To Implementation, we’re there with you every step of the way!