6 Helpful Tips for Startup Branding

When it comes to successful businesses that make an impact and stand the test of time, it’s no secret that branding is one of the most important factors. If your branding isn’t cohesive or memorable, how do you expect to stick out among a sea of competitors? This can be a particularly difficult issue to tackle, especially when you’re just beginning to build your business and don’t have design experience. But don’t worry, that’s why we’re writing this blog post! We’re going to talk about some tips you can use to get your branding on the right track right from the start!

Startup Branding Tips

Do Your Research
Take a look at the kind of branding your competitors are using. What works for them, and what doesn’t? Take a moment to think about how you can create a brand that speaks to potential customers. Consider doing color research as well. What colors best represent your business and the feeling you want your business to convey. Take a look at the chart below and get a jump start!

Color Theory

Know Your Market
Understanding to whom you’re selling is vital when it comes to creating a brand. Consider starting out small and specific – you can always expand your brand later, but it’s more difficult (and expensive) to start big and then attempt to scale things back.

Understand What Makes You Different
What makes you unique? Why should people consider buying from you rather than someone else? This can mean any number of things. Maybe you’re attempting to be a young, innovative entry in a somewhat conservative and traditional field, for example. Play that up! Don’t be afraid to be edgy or different.

Have a Story
One important aspect of brand success boils down to stories. What is your brand story? If you don’t have one, you might find it more difficult to convince people to buy into your brand. What have you overcome to create your business? Why do you believe in what you do? What makes you passionate about it?

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Are you feeling a little overwhelmed? That’s okay! Contrary to popular believe, you don’t have to do it yourself. It’s smart to seek out experienced help if you’ve hit the wall. One of our sponsors, Excite Creative Studios does branding for a wide array of business types – reach out to them for a free consultation.

Need a little bit of design inspiration to get you going? Take a look at some of our favorite branding along with some fantastic resources that we’ve pulled from Pinterest!