Branding starts personally with projecting a professional Image at every touch point.
Branding starts with your collateral and online presence but goes much further
...some back to basics tips:
- Always have a professional
business card on hand - consistent to your look and feel, simple, but
says what you do - use both sides and have it printed on good quality paper.
- Have a branded, simple, usable Web site - it does not need to be large and expensive to be effective. Understand it and own it, updating it regularly with fresh, relevant content.
- Include testimonials from your clients on your site and in marketing materials wherever possible.
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Include a short profile, with
a good photograph that is current and flattering. Particularly for
small business, making it personal is valuable. Include full contact information in your e-mail signature line and at the end of letters.
- Create your "elevator speak" - a 15 second explanation of what you do, for whom and what your primary differentiator is.
- Have a very brief summary of your business - including samples of what you do to demonstrate your expertise - ready to e-mail.
- Hiring a professional to write your copy adds immense value - even the best marketers benefit from an objective wordsmithing of their ideas.
- Network regularly
- Help others to grow their businesses
- Use your business card as a name card (branding)
- Give genuine referrals as often as possible
More networking tips...
- PowerPoint presentations should be concise and bulleted with a few well chosen, engaging visuals.
I hope these tips help you put your best foot forward!
Have a great weekend!
Susan Ward
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