How To Build A Business Right The First Time, Part 2

In part one of our series, we talked through the steps needed to lay a really solid foundation for your business and your brand — from the passion and work it will take to the advantages available to you as a solopreneur or micro-business owner.

In the second part of our series, we’ll discuss what comes next. Once you have a clear picture of your “why”, what you bring to the table and have determined the people you want to work with, you can move forward. So, what does it take to turn that clarity into action and turn your business dreams into reality? We can help you find the answers to those important questions.

You Must Stand Out

No matter how amazing your product or service may be, it’s difficult to be remembered and stand out in a crowded marketplace. One way to do that is with a memorable brand presence. As the saying goes, “you only get one chance to make a first impression” and when it comes to your branding, it couldn’t be more true. By building a solid business with well-designed, well-planned and well-executed branding, you’ll be taking a step to make sure all of your potential customers become real customers.

If you start to doubt the importance of solid branding, think about your own experience as a consumer. The brands who exude confidence and have eye catching, fully developed branding are the ones you’re most likely to remember and ultimately trust with your business. Branding is also a way to legitimize your business which is very important when just starting out.

You Must Show Your Audience Who You Really Are

The most important thing to remember about today’s consumers is their attention span. It can be difficult to get a potential customer or client to notice you, so once you have their attention you need to make sure you’re communicating who you are as a brand thoroughly and effectively. Your brand, marketing collateral and any space a potential client may encounter you is a chance to introduce yourself, your expertise and the types of results you can provide them. The days of lengthy “About” and “Services” are over. It’s vital to communicate clearly, concisely and powerfully to show what the experience of working with you would be like.

Establish Yourself As An Expert

Today’s savvy consumers are primed to expect professional marketing and branding from every business they interact with. If you want your business to be taken seriously, you need to show potential customers why you’re an expert in your field with proof. Writing articles, teaching workshops or sharing your knowledge on your social media channels is one way to do that, but you might not be there yet. Until you’re ready to share your knowledge with the world, brainstorm ways you can communicate your expertise. One great way to do this is with testimonials, case studies or simply numbers. What are some of the results people have experienced as a result of the experiences and expertise you bring to the table? Don’t be shy about sharing positive results.

Start Off On The Right Foot

Invest time and resources into your branding upfront and you’ll save yourself even more time down the line. Potential customers and clients want to work with businesses that look professional, and those who clearly know what they’re talking about.

Investing in creating a professional brand is another way to demonstrate your expertise and professionalism. The time, energy and care it took to create your brand demonstrates the same care and quality of work you deliver to your future customers and clients.

We’ve seen it time and time again at DesignGood. The clients that take the time to go though our process and launch their businesses with a polished brand and website do better, faster. Your potential clients will take notice of the care and clarity put in your brand’s design, copy and selection of your services & packages up front. This all needs to be buttoned-up and presented perfectly before you launch — or you risk slower success later.

Learn To Meet Your Client Where They Are At

The most important thing you can do as an entrepreneur is meet your clients where they are. You need to provide a personalized experience that caters to their level of expertise and comfort. Ultimately it's not about making clients come to you — it's about understanding how your products and services can help them where they are at currently, and being flexible and open to making adjustments based on their needs. You’re providing a service, after all, and once you understand this it will make all of your work easier and more impactful. Everyone has different needs and desires, and it’s important to address that early in the process.

Be Open To Getting Some Help

As an entrepreneur, you probably don’t have a lot of free time on your hands. Save yourself some of that precious time (and stress) and enlist a professional to help you with this key part of your business that may not fall under your wheelhouse. Working with a branding team is an investment, but it’s one that will pay off for your business quickly. You’ll be noticed quicker, taken seriously faster and doing what you love instead of working to fine tune your brand. The world needs you doing what you're best at, not spending time worrying about your website, playing around with your logo or writing copy if that’s not your gift.

We Love Working With Individuals Just Like You

If your open to more guidance, we’re always here to help! Let’s talk about your business dreams and desires and what you would hope to gain by working with an experienced brand design studio. DesignGood will guide you on what’s vital to get your business off the ground now, and what can wait until later. Let’s put a plan together!

After all, this is your brand — and your baby. Teach your customers to trust you by showing that you care enough to invest the time and effort into getting things right the first time.