Branding R-E-S-O-L-U-T-I-O-N-S

R is for Revising Your Strategy
We live in an age where brand strategy is no longer static. Maybe it’s time to relook that strategy you came up with back in 1983, and consider how your brand can change with the times.
 
E is for Evolving with Your Audience
Don’t just assume that you KNOW what your audience wants. Needs are constantly changing, and if your brand no longer meets those needs, they’ll move on to the “next best thing”.
 
S is for Simplifying Your Communications
Communication is EVERYWHERE, and your customer’s brain is tired. That’s why you need to cut – to – the – chase! Keep it simple enough that even a goldfish would be interested.
 
O is for Optimising for Mobile
Especially in South Africa, the internet is largely accessed via mobile phones. So if your website isn’t mobile-ready, (*shudder*) what will your customers find when they search for you?

L is for Learning to Plan
You can’t – we repeat CAN’T – be on social media and NOT have a plan. Posting “whenever I feel like it” doesn’t always align with when your audience feels like reading it, so get it together!
 
U is for Utilising What You Already Have
All this talk of “refresh and renew” might have you thinking that the years and years of brand building was all for nothing. But on the contrary! Your foundation is set, now build that house.
 
T is for Taking Chances
No need to be extreme! Simply try to be a bit bolder in your branding decisions. Take one small step outside your comfort zone, and you might just discover a whole new world of possibility.
 
I is for Initiating Conversations
Advertising and branding is no longer a one-way street. “Conversation” is the keyword of the 21st century, and you need to start thinking of your audience as REAL people who like to chat.
 
O is for Owning Your Mistakes
There’s nothing customers value more than honesty. So, make an effort to be more transparent and human. We all make mistakes, and it’s better to own up than play dumb.
 
N is for New Marketing Channels
Now, we’re not saying you need to be on ALL the channels. Take the time to investigate which channels best complement your brand. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more on this.
 
S is for Staying True to Yourself
Always remember where you’ve come from. By all means – refresh, revive and renew your brand! But never lose that “it-factor” – that essence, that story – that gives your brand its personality.
 

The final and most important resolution is to ask for help when you need it.

Branding is a complex affair and, with a little bit of assistance from a Calypso brand fairy, your brand will grow up to make you proud.