For young businesses, making a professional first impression as you build your brand is key.
Although hiring a branding expert may be too expensive in the early days, you can still help your business stand out without breaking the bank.
Just follow these simple marketing moves that will help people to know, like, and trust you.
1. Build credibility with your own email address
A custom email account isn’t costly but is worthwhile. Sending company emails from a Gmail account will raise questions about the legitimacy of your business.
If you’ve already registered your company’s domain name for your website, it’s a snap to set up a custom email address. Many web hosting services include a free custom email account with their service packages.
If you haven’t registered a domain name, search for what’s available at NameCheap.com. Most companies can help you find a memorable domain name.
2. Build your brand with a customized logo
An effective eye-catching logo will attract new customers, help you stand apart from competitors, build trust in your brand and inspire customer loyalty.
If you hire a logo designer, you’ll save time and get a unique, professional result—but be prepared with ideas about your brand identity. Being clear on your brand before your first consultation will streamline the process, ensuring you get what you want.
This article from LeanLabs describes how you can pin down your unique brand identity with twenty questions. You might also find this free downloadable brand character workbook useful.
And if the budget is a concern, try one of these free graphic design tools that help you combine visual elements to create your own logo:
3. Build trust with a professional photo
Before strangers will buy from you, they need to get to know you.
A high-quality photo for your website and social media accounts, as well as professional web content and engaging social media posts, is a must. Nothing makes a business appear more “fly by night” than a faceless LinkedIn avatar—or less professional than a grainy, out-of-focus selfie.
Expect to pay in the ballpark of $100 for a headshot (or more, depending on the photographer’s hourly rate and the length of your shoot). You can also do it yourself if you’re on a budget following these quick headshot tips from HubSpot.
Marketing is an ongoing commitment for every business. As your business and bottom line grow, invest in new strategies to maintain a profitable company.
In the meantime, these simple suggestions will help you make that the positive first impression with your customers.
