Your brand is how your products and services are perceived by your customers.

Identifying your brand doesn't come from simply making a logo and creating a slogan. Identifying your brand is how you communicate your business' approach to customer satisfaction.

Understanding your customers, their needs, wants and choices will help you hone in on your branding image and help you develop your core values and mission.

Communicating what separates you from your competition, what makes your services or products different from what's currently in the marketplace and why you are unique, are all important elements in discovering and presenting your brand.

For a new business or the re-branding of a current business follow these steps to create your Mission Statement Write down:

1. 1.) What type of service or products you provide


2. 2.) Who will benefit from your products or services


3. 3.) How you want to be perceived by your customers/clients


4. 4.) What your goals are


5. 5.) How you are different from your competition

Your Core Values Statement is similar to your Mission Statement but reflects your company's heart and voice. Write down the words that describe your core values.

1. INTEGRITY in all your dealings


2. RESPECT treat others the way you want to be treated


3. RESPONSIBILITY work hard and contribute for the collective good


4. SERVICE to customers, co-workers and community


5. LEADERSHIP lead by example, contribute where appropriate

Don't underestimate the power of the written word. If you create your mission statement and core value statement you will have the guidelines for training your staff, the elements for creating a powerful brand both visually and emotionally and something to reference back to, to keep you on track. Ask yourself, and your employees, every month are we fulfilling our mission statement. What can we do better.

Keep in touch with your customers and clients and use their feedback to improve operations and service. Don't be afraid of change as long as it is in sync with and enhances your core values and mission.

Consistency in all aspects:

1. Consistency in Customer Service


2. Consistency in the Quality of products or services


3. Consistency in Messaging and Staying in Touch with your customers


4. Consistency in your training of staff, employees, vendors and contractors


5. Consistency in your brand Image: signage, letterhead, logos, biz cards, invoices etc

Well trained employees, vendors, contractors and even customers are the best advocates for your business.

Position yourself as an expert by offering tips, advice and information on the benefits of your products or services.

Advertising, Networking, Community Service and Charity are all good ways to find new customers and connect with strategic partners to forward your brand.

I can help you create a branding and marketing strategy using these and other initiatives.