Content Team Just as a contractor has a fully stocked toolbox for building homes, so too do marketers rely on their own toolbox to successfully build brands. These go-to instruments allow them to develop a brand ‘s story and image. So how can a small business owner leverage the same marketing tools and stand out in their competitive market?
The Logo. As the foundation of your brand, your logo needs to drive the image of your marketing elements and campaigns. Your business is original and unique, so your logo must be as well. Your logo will set the tone for consumer expectations and build name recognition. This is the face of your company and ultimately your biggest asset. You only have one chance to make a good first impression, so why not make it a BIG first impression?
The Vehicle. Cars, trucks, vans and tractor-trailers. They are all just for transportation, right? Not quite. Your fleet of vehicles can literally act as moving billboards, getting your name and brand in front of thousands of potential customers each day. Use this space strategically to convey your company name, logo and brand. You only have a few seconds to get your message across—make sure to convey the basics!
The Website. All your marketing outlets should drive consumers to your brand hub to gain more insights and in-depth details on:
You are selling more than a service or product. You are selling a solution as well as an experience, so your brand hub should clearly communicate this. Your website will be your largest marketing tool, so take full advantage of this space to tell your brand story.
The Social Media. Create an open dialogue and two-way communication by using one or more of the many popular platforms to really connect with your consumers. Use these channels to generate exposure, cultivate leads, improve search engine rankings and increase traffic to your brand hub. Depending on your market and consumer, you can develop these social media profiles:
The Search Engine Optimization. How will consumers find you online? Google is evolving and modifying their algorithms every day, so it’s important to stay in the know when it comes to SEO. What are the latest trends? What are the best strategies and insights to help drive your visitors to your site? These are the things you must always take into consideration when thinking digital. After all, if a consumer can’t find your website, then what good is having one?
The Stationery & Collateral. After you make a good first impression with your logo, you should leave a lasting impression with stationery and brochures that help to reinforce your brand position and what your company stands for. Keep the message synchronized, appropriate for the media used, and current whenever possible.
Every small business owner or entrepreneur can use these tools to establish and build their brand. However, it is critical to know when, how and where to use these them. Content marketing is the thread that will weave these tools together, creating the total brand identity. It is the properly executed strategy that will allow your small business to truly stand out in a crowded market.
How will you tell your brand story? What tone and shape will this narrative take? What can you offer that no other company can? Why should a consumer choose to do business with you? Once you uncover these nuggets of truth, you can create meaningful content that will truly outshine your competition, making a profound connection with your consumer.
Your brand story will be a beautiful manifestation of all your tools, so don’t wait. Unleash your brand today!
