Tips for Better Branding

Being competitive in 2010 - that's what its all about. I personally believe that the future success of every company comes from   effective communication. Basically, it doesn't matter if you have the best product in the world, if not enough people know about it than your success is limited.

In the following weeks I would like to share with you some of my experience as a business developer in several fields that hopefully might help maximize your business' potential and to help your organization be seen as the thought leader it is, I've identified and listed some useful tips, simple, yet not to be taken for-granted.

Logo
Logo - which is the thing most companies start with, underestimating this small creature might turn out to be a mistake since it is the basic "look and feel" provider  An appealing logo creates not just a lasting impression but also the right one, it is like a small ad company, without the strategy behind it a logo can put across the wrong message and in return weaken your strategy.
You can change your ad, even your website but a logo is something that you stay with year after year (much like floor tiles), Keep in mind it is how consumers will recognize your company, these things might look trivial but the right logo which is well thought through might start the differentiating process between you and your competitors, I find it a worthy starting point to start planning ahead.

A picture is worth a thousand words
This old saying is even more valid in these times of overwhelming abundance of information flow. Studies demonstrate that most people do not read; they scan. It takes 25% more time to read on the Web than from printed media so go easy on the text for maximized readability: Headlines should be 8 words or less, avoid the need to read throughout an entire screen, keep sentences short (about 15-20 words) and summaries under 30 words. A compelling way to demonstrate your product or service is through small presentations or banners that can be used as eye-catchers.

Market and marketing
Describe the profile of your target customer, depending on whether your business targets B2C (Business to Consumers) or B2B (Business to Business), this can include data on relevant points such as age, gender, location, business type etc. I would first and foremost be checking to find out whether there is a market need that currently demands a solution. Is the need large enough to justify the pricing of your solution? Before starting any action, research and monitor your partners, competitors, and customers - it isn't always obvious.

Think like a consumer, put yourself in his place
If you sell a line of products that have a wide range of prices, show the progression from the least expensive to the most expensive. Customers may choose to purchase the higher priced items if they're presented as options. Also, Most people prefer simplicity and clarity, display clear pricing and shipping information, also post clear return policies and access to customer service. Putting your store's phone number in a visible place on your website is a good idea. Consumers feel more confident knowing you're just a phone call away if they have a question or if there's a problem with their order.