Building a brand Te waihanga parani

A strong brand is one of the most valuable things a business can have. It gives you a professional look and helps create loyal customers who keep coming back. With a strong brand, people can find you more easily. You stand out, and people are more likely to remember you. 

People tend to associate a strong brand with a good reputation, helping new customers trust your business. Plus, when people know and like your brand, they’re more likely to recommend you to others.

Branding is important, no matter what your business is. If you’re selling everyday products and services or competing with many similar businesses, you may only need the basics. For example, a business name, logo, and perhaps a website. But you may need something more thoroughly planned if you’re selling goods and services in niche markets. In that case, consider getting branding advice from a marketing expert early on.

Choose a name first, then think about your logo and slogan. Your logo could be part of your name or a separate image. Your slogan is a chance to say more about who you are and what you stand for.

What sets you apart is the reason people will buy from you and not another business. This is called your unique selling point or USP. 

Thinking about why customers would choose you can help you find your USP.

For example, your difference could be:

• quality
• price
• top service
• convenience
• environmental friendliness.

Your business's online presence is anything about your business that lives online. This includes your website or social media pages and customer reviews. 

Actively crafting your presence puts you in control of how you're perceived online. Every business needs an online presence. It adds credibility.

A website can be your shop window, retail outlet, information centre and marketing tool. It works 24 hours a day, seven days a week to tell customers about you and your product or service, whether they’re local to you, or overseas.