The idea behind branding isn’t just to provide a ‘cutesy’ term to talk about the way something looks.
The process behind branding is to give each product and person their own voice, story and style so customers can easily recognize and familiarize with the service.
But, with so many brands and personalities, how do you set your brand apart from the others?
Yes, the business world can be brutal in competition, but it isn’t about comparing yourself to others or trying to imitate what everyone else is doing. It’s about finding what you can do differently.
Although we do share several similarities as entrepreneurs [especially in the same field], we believe that we are different. There’s a distinct brand DNA that we can all own.
An article on American Express’ website discussed the significance of a unique selling proposition (USP), which is a statement that helps a company set your brand apart from other businesses in the same industry. It’s finding that unique trait to highlight and hone in on.
So, what does that mean for your business? How can you and your brand set yourself apart from what everyone else is doing and highlight the unique qualities that you and your team bring to the table?
Sharing your personality will set your brand apart
People want to get to know you on a deeper level, more than just your service and what you’re trying to sell them. Don’t be afraid to let who you are shine when setting your brand apart. After all, you are the face of your business. When people get to know you, they are more likely to trust you and work with you later on.
Expand your services to more than what your competing brands offer
Knowing what competing brands offer can be of benefit to you. This can allow you to try something new or find a new angle that no one else is doing. Find a new approach for that service that has been around for years.
Setting your brand apart is tied in with authentic communication
Your customers, or clients, are looking for connection. Even if it’s simply through social media or another medium behind a screen. When you are honest and real about your life, the struggles you’ve gone through and how your journey has taken you to where you are now, others will relate with that, and you. It’s not about being the best of the best, or having the best gadgets. It’s the realness you show in the work you do provide. People like to be part of the journey and the progress that is made with your business.
Setting your values from the beginning
When people know your intentions and values from the start, they know where they can put their trust throughout the process of working together. If your vision aligns with theirs, it’s a win all around.
Follow through with your vision
It’s one thing to have a tagline, but it’s another to actually carry that out in the vision. It’s all in how you bring service to your team and customers through the tagline. Vision is another main aspect that will set your brand apart.
A healthy approach to exercising your brand voice creatively online
Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. Don’t focus too much on the trends, rather be inspired by what you like about your favorite brands and businesses. Don’t aim for perfection when creating and putting your brand voice out there, aim for progress.
Read more about setting your brand apart on the Charizma Co. blog. You can also find daily content on Charizma Co.’s Instagram account.
