Getting brand power on your side

When starting your own business, one of the most important things you should do for it
is promote it in such a way that people will recognize it and immediately associate good things with it. This is known as branding.

Brand power means people will not only remember and know the products and services that you provide, but also think of you positively as a business. The image you want your company to portray will come through your branding and are ultimately what will build your business.

Getting brand power on your side will take some work, and the following are some tips to make branding work for you:

Choose the perfect name and logo..then get it out there.
You should have a logo and company name that is distinctive and memorable. Many companies (think Apple's apple or the golden arches of McDonald's) are known worldwide just by their logos. Make sure your website, business cards, brochures, letterhead, and so forth all have your logo and company name on them. In addition, if you have a catchy slogan, include that on the marketing materials as well.

The same goes for other products as well. Hand out shirts with your company name and logo on them on your opening day, or at career fairs or trade shows. Put your logo and company name on business vehicles, or even your own personal vehicle. This is important in the beginning. Repetition of your name and logo will help get brand power on your side.

Define your products and services.
One way you can effectively brand your business is through defining your products and services through benefits rather than features. For example, let's say you have a tutoring service. You aren't simply selling time with a teacher; your clients are buying increased confidence in school and study skills that will help them throughout their entire academic career. In addition to defining your products and services, take into account which ones are the most practical to promote and have the best chance of succeeding.

Build credibility in your products.
Credibility is also crucial for getting brand power on your side. Your prospects need to not only be aware of your products and services, but feel positively about them. You can do this by promoting through free trial offers, samples, and so forth. There are many ways you can do this - you can set up samples of products or coupons at a trade show, offer a free session, or give someone a 30-day trial run. People are more inclined to buy if they already have a favorable impression or experience with your product.

It's also a good idea to get testimonials from satisfied customers. Send out comment cards or surveys, then put them on your promotional materials. This can go a long way as well.

Develop good public relations
A favorable image of your company will also help you to get brand power on your side. Get involved in the community. Donate to causes, sponsor a run or walk for a good cause, or match contributions made to various charities. This will help people see you as a company that cares about the community in which it does business.

Branding is an important part of getting your name out. The above tips will help you with the initial branding of starting your own business.