Branding before you launch is something many new entrepreneurs are unaware of. When I was a new entrepreneur I thought the most important thing was to make sure I had a product ready, but after launching with minimal success I realized my thought process was incorrect.
Here are my Top 3 Reasons to Brand Before You Launch:
- Familiarity – We are all creatures of habit especially when it comes to making buying decisions. Think about it; if you went to the store to buy Caesar dressing for your salad, are you likely to purchase the new brand on the shelf or the one that most familiar with your taste buds? EXACTLY – the one you are most familiar with.
- Controlling The Conversation – I always say that Branding is what people say about your business when you are not around. The only way to semi control that conversation is by telling them what to feel, think and say. For example, the only reason you know that Steph Curry is a basketball player is because Steph is branded and marketed as a basketball player. There are many aspects to him, BUT the only thing that he wants you to know about him for the most part is his ability to play basketball and win championships with his team. You may know a few other things about him, but mostly its basketball. So when you choose the message and brand it, every time someone hears your companies name or sees your logo, they will also think of the message you controlled by sharing it with the world over and over again.
- Top Remain Top Of Mind – Ask yourself this question. When you think of fast food french fries, before Chick-Fil-A showed up, who initially came to mind whether you wanted them or not? MCDONALDS!!! Why? McDonalds has branded its self as a fast food restaurant with Burgers and Fries. When you see the logo, or hear the name you know EXACTLY who they are & when you have a craving for fries they wanted you to always think of them!! Now they have an interesting reputation these days, but still when you SEE their logo or HEAR their name you know exactly what they do. THAT is what you want for your brand as well.