It’s no question
that starting your own business can be overwhelming. There are so many plans to implement, tasks
to complete and strategies to develop to make your business a success. It’s crucial to get your name out there to
create awareness and establish your brand.
But, before promoting your grandiose idea – it’s important that you
understand your business, your message, your brand…and have the tools in place
for others to be able to understand as well.
The first thing your
potential customers will see is your brand name. How you have chosen to
illustrate this reinforces what sets you apart from the competition. Many small
businesses and start-ups do not spend enough time thinking about their brand
and this can have a serious impact on their business.
Along with your brand identity and logo, your website is
an important branding tool.
This is where people go to find out all about you and your business and the
products and services you offer. Having a website isn’t enough. You need an eye-catching website that serves
as your online shop front and explains why visitors need your product and or
services.
Why do you need effective branding and an exceptional website?
- Website
and branding build credibility
A website is crucial to a start-up because it’s where you
sell your products and ideas, make a connection with your customers and build
trust. These days having a website is a basic requirement. If you can’t be found online or your web
presence isn’t up to standard, then you can wave goodbye to your credibility
and getting the attention of new customers. Without a website that is easy to
find and easy to navigate, you cannot expect your customers to find out
information about you and your products.
Your website should be visually appealing and professionally
designed to attract visitors. Think about how you want your brand to be
portrayed and reflect this in your web design as your potential customers will
judge you on first impressions. And
remember, the design and flow of your website should align with your industry
and how your target audience does research.
To make sure your website reflects a professional image that
is inviting and engaging consider the following:
- Test
to ensure your website looks good and performs well in all browsers.
- Make
sure your website looks good on a mobile device. Increasing mobile usage
means your website needs to be optimized for mobile viewing.
- Website
and branding can present a unified message about your company
A solid branding strategy builds a unified message across
all your marketing channels from your website, to social media to printed
materials like business cards, posters and direct mail pieces. A branding
strategy often incorporates colors, images, fonts and language to convey to
your target audience who you are, your brand personality and values. It is
important to share this message consistently across different marketing
platforms (even if you sell different products or services), so that your
audience knows simply and quickly who you are and what they can expect from
your company.
- Website
and branding allow you to stand out against competition
A strong, easily recognizable brand makes it easier to cut
through the clutter and help you stand out from the competition. From your
color combination, to the font, pictures and messaging, your choices help set
you apart in the minds of your customers.
- Brands
generate referrals
Word of mouth is one of the most popular ways to grow your
business. Let’s face it - people love to
give and receive recommendations. In today’s digital environment, where we are
all so connected, word of mouth is extremely important. Today, our friends and
family can easily share recommendations through social media channels or we can
access social media influencers. This is why it’s so
important to create a strong brand that is memorable in your customer’s mind.
A functional and fantastic website and a recognizable brand
give your customers a reason to engage further with you. While your goods and
services might be a great idea, they cannot stand on their own. First
impressions count, so how you portray yourself through your branding and
website is your chance to make your company shine.
Not sure how to develop an authentic brand? Need assistance developing a unique, engaging
website? Contact the experts at SKConsulting! From concept to creation to implementation
– we’re there with you every step of the way!
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