Google “Tammy Levent” and everything you see on that search results page is the marketing I’ve done to build my brand – and with it, my businesses. Now, what happens if I Google you? Your brand isn’t just your logo, it’s who you are and how you do business. It’s your reputation, and your success depends on building both your reputation and recognition in your community and online. Here are five ways to start.
1. Brand Yourself and Your Business. Whether you own your own business or work for someone else, brand your name with what you do. Brand it like it’s yours so no one forgets your name, even if you end up working somewhere else. This gives you and your company greater visibility and everybody wins. Always use your first and last name – and maybe even your middle name – to set yourself apart.
2. Make the Front Page of Your Own Search Results. “Tammy Levent – Google Me” is how I sign my emails – and I’m the only Tammy Levent in the world. That was no accident. I was born Stamatia Kavourakis: hard to pronounce, impossible to brand. I’m not saying you have to change your name, but have something that stands out. In the age of social media, personal branding is one of the most important things you can do to get you and your business on the map. When they do find you, whether on Twitter, Facebook, G+, YouTube or your website, make sure that your photo, logo, colors and other visuals remain consistent throughout.
3. Print Lots of Business Cards – and Use Them. One thing I hate is when you go to networking events, ask someone for their card, and they reply “I ran out!” How can you complain that you don’t have business when you have no way to promote it? And your card is the cheapest form of advertising. Put as much detail on as you can, using front and back. I print 5,000 business cards every year, and I use all of them.
4. Position Yourself as the Expert in Your Field. You’ll increase your brand recognition, your credibility and your sales if you can position yourself as the expert in your field. Work your Strategic Partnerships to get your expertise published in blogs, local magazines and newspapers. When you offer genuine insights and helpful advice, without turning it into an advertorial for your business, you’ll expand your brand recognition and gain the respect of your community.
5. Invest in a Professional Logo – and Keep It. What would McDonald’s be without the golden arches? Or KFC without the Colonel? Starbucks without their green and white mermaid? These logos are branded, and – more importantly – they are consistent. These companies chose one look early-on and stuck with it. The biggest mistake I see people make is constantly re-branding their businesses to be unrecognizable. So invest up front in one great logo that is clean, simple and timeless, and stick with it.
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Tammy Levent, Public Speaker & Business Mentor
Click here to read Tammy’s bio and a sampling of her achievements.
