What is Branding?

Branding started as a way of identifying someone’s property by burning a unique mark onto it.

Today, branding has become a marketing practice that involves creating a name, design or symbol that differentiates a product, company or public figure from others.

How Branding Works

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Part of success is having a brand and making sure the public knows it as firmly as they know their own names. Branding comes down to one simple concept or word. When people hear the word “clown” they may think of McDonald’s restaurant. When they hear “Good Neighbour” State Farm may come to mind. These are both examples of effective branding.

When it comes to figuring out your personal brand, it is important to keep in mind that other people see you in a different light than you see yourself. It might be beneficial to actually poll people to find out how they view you. Then, take their view and find a positive way of branding that. Craft your mission statement to include their concept, as well as your goals.

Know what you are loved for and uphold your duty to fans by giving it to them. Your logo, style, appearance, and name need to manifest that concept. How can you embody that concept in a way that grabs people and makes them want to know more, see more and hear more? Keep it pure and simple. You want to make sure your fans don’t get confused, otherwise they won’t know how to follow you and you’ll lose them.

Once you find your branding, don’t be afraid to continue evolving. If you become locked into one look, you can quickly become outdated, especially if you’re a public figure.

Stay fresh by changing up your look while staying true to your brand concept. No matter what the circumstance, it is vital to remain truthful to your brand and own it in every circumstance.