Small Business Branding
Small business branding is just as important as branding for large, multinational business.
OK, so your budget isn’t quite as high as theirs but that doesn’t mean you cannot build a good, strong brand identity.
The basic foundations of a small business branding consist of the following:
1. Iconic logo design
The best logos work well in one block colour, they are often very simple and work well on a number of different backgrounds. Keep these key points in mind when designing your logo.
2. A simple colour scheme to represent the brand
The colours you choose to represent your brand are important, research into colour meanings; certain colours could work better for your business and your brand.
3. Clear values and beliefs
Create a list of your brand values and beliefs. Think about your target audience, what would appeal to them, and how you can reach out to them by reinforcing your brand values and beliefs.
4. A clear message
This could be in the form of a tag line, imagery or statement. Make sure it is clear, what you do, what the benefits are and why consumers should pick you against your competitors.
5. Design consistency
So many small businesses fall at this hurdle. All your communications must look and feel consistent, the design element here is key. It is so simple, yet by cutting corners, using staff with the wrong skills and sheer ignorance to what brand identity is, small businesses fail miserably.
- Use the same logo on every document, brochure, web page, business card
- Choose one colour scheme and stick to it! Colour plays a massive role in brand consistency
- Images – these must be of a similar style and composition.
6. An online and offline presence
Owning a website for businesses today is so important, not only does it give you an online, up-to-the-minute brochure for your business, but it also solidifies that you are who you say you are and is a key element in your online presence. Equally you must have literature that is available offline too, like business cards and stationery, brochure, flyers and leaflets.