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I’ve been a graphic designer since 2006. Your business deserves amazing branding no matter what phase you’re in and I’m here to help!
Starting a new business can feel like stepping into a maze with countless paths to success. And one of the first choices you’ll need to navigate is whether or not to invest in a brand designer. It’s a decision that can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out. But what if I told you that hiring a brand designer might not be necessary for your new business?
Let’s dive into three important reasons why you can create a strong brand on your own, without the need to hire a designer. From understanding your business needs to leveraging online design tools and resources, I’ll show you how to pave your own way to branding success. So, if you’re ready to take control of your brand’s destiny, read on and discover the power of DIY branding.
Before deciding whether or not to hire a brand designer for your new business, it’s crucial to gain a clear understanding of your specific business needs. This involves taking a close look at your target audience, your industry, and your overall business goals. By doing so, you can determine whether hiring a brand designer is truly necessary, or if you have the capability to create a strong brand on your own.
Who are they? What do they value? What kind of messaging and visuals will resonate with them the most? By understanding your audience’s preferences and expectations, you can develop a brand that effectively communicates your value proposition and appeals to your target market. For a more detailed guide on this process, you can use the questionnaire provided in the brand design course, Brand Like A Pro.
This insight will help you determine whether you have the skills and creativity to create a brand that meets your audience’s needs without the expertise of a brand designer.
What do you hope to achieve with your brand? Is it to establish credibility and trust? To differentiate yourself from competitors? To create a memorable and recognizable identity? Understanding the specific objectives you have for your brand design will help you determine whether hiring a brand designer is vital to achieving those goals.
It’s important to recognize that design is a specialized skill that goes way beyond just making a “pretty logo” but if you can commit to learning the skills yourself through a course like Brand Like A Pro, you may not need to hire a brand designer.
Now, let’s explore the option of utilizing online design tools to help you create a strong brand without the need for professional 1-on-1 services.
Utilizing online design tools like Canva can be a cost-effective solution for entrepreneurs to create their own brand identities. These tools have amazing templates for designing social media and marketing graphics.
While online design tools provide affordability and flexibility compared to hiring a brand designer, it’s important to be aware of their limitations.
I’m a huge fan of Canva, even as a professional designer I find myself choosing to use Canva over my Adobe products for many different reasons. But one aspect of Canva that I’ll never recommend it their logo templates.
While they are a great place to start for inspiration, these logo templates definitely have limitations. Using pre-made logo templates can result in a generic brand appearance and potential copyright issues. It’s important to consider creating a unique logo tailored to your specific needs.
Although this can feel overwhelming, using a resource like Brand Like A Pro in addition to Canva can make sure you’re getting the expertise of a professional brand designer without the cost.
Your logo doesn’t have to be something super elaborate, I actually recommend the opposite, but you should have something unique, even if it’s super simple. If you are willing to put in the work and learn online design tools can provide you with a solid foundation for your brand
Next, we’ll delve into leveraging brand design resources for new small businesses that can complement your efforts with online design tools, ensuring you have a comprehensive approach to brand development.
If you’re a new small business just getting started and you’re not ready to invest in a professional brand designer, a branding course may be a great option for you. Not only will this course teach you how to create a visually appealing brand identity, but it will also help you to develop a strong branding strategy.
This brand design course is cost-effective and will teach you proper strategy and design principles that you wouldn’t get from just grabbing a pre-made template.
Additionally, having a hands-on approach to your branding enables you to capture the true essence of your business, which can enhance your connection with your target audience. A branding course can also empower you with the skills to modify and adapt your branding strategy as your business evolves, ensuring that your brand always remains relevant and impactful.
You can create a well-rounded and effective brand for your new business by leveraging these branding resources alongside online design tools. With careful consideration and a willingness to learn, you can develop a brand that not only captures the essence of your business but also connects with your target audience on a deeper level.
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to jump into hiring a brand designer for your new business, it’s important to consider the alternatives. Understanding your business needs, utilizing online design tools, leveraging branding resources, and maintaining consistency are all powerful ways to create a strong brand design on your own. By taking the time to explore these options, you are giving your business the best chance for success. Remember, as author Lincoln Murphy once said, “Your brand is what other people say about you when you’re not in the room.” So, go ahead and take control of your brand’s narrative, and watch your business thrive.
Photo by Jenny Ueberberg on Unsplash
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