12 ways to build a brand people love.

 

  1. Start a movement around your brand.  You’re not a one man band and even one man bands need roadies and family support.
  2. Build green into your brand.  Ok so you are a small pepper sauce maker.  Make sure you’re not serving up prohibited pesticides.
  3. Tell your story. Including the part where your marriage almost broke up as you pursued that batik business.  A brand that does not have a clear compelling story is no better than salt in a plastic bag.
  4. Be your brand.  When people see you they must see the values your brand represents.  If you are a “P.I.G.” hog, guess what; that’s your brand.
  5. Embrace customer experience.  It’s the single biggest brand builder known to mankind.  What is customer experience you ask?  The stories people tell about your brand when you’re not there.
  6. Forget price. Think value.
  7. Your brand is not for everyone.  Define your tribe.  Live with them.  Eat, sleep and drink whatever and wherever they eat, sleep and drink.
  8. Be honest.    Don’t cut corners.  Especially when no one is looking.
  9. Innovate. Innovate. Innovate.
  10. Don’t interrupt your fans. Engage them.
  11. Go where your customers are; old school or digital.
  12. Have a plan for when things go wrong.