Realizing your business is extremely challenging and infinitely rewarding. There are countless steps to bringing your business to fruition. Creating a timeless, powerful, and meaningful public persona is a huge step in that process. It can be absolutely overwhelming. The goal of this workbook is to guide you through the first steps and get you well on your way to creating an impeccable brand.
This workbook is in three sections: Brand, Brand Identity, and Brand Strategy. You might ask, “What’s the difference?” There is a subtle yet important distinction. Brand is the name of a company, individual, organization, or product as well as the emotional and/or cultural associations attached to that name. Brand identity is the visual and verbal articulation of the brand. Brand strategy is the culmination of your brand and brand identity into a roadmap for growth and success.
Getting Started
The first time that you answer the questions, do it instinctually. Try not to over-analyze. Just let answers come to you. If an answer doesn’t flow out right away then skip to the next question and come back to it later.
When finished, put the workbook in a safe place and take some time to process the information. After a few hours or even a day, re-read the questions and your answers. You will recognize where answers need to be flushed out, ones that you want to completely change, and ones that are perfect. Go through this same process a couple more times and you will see your brand unfold in front of you.
Part 1: Brand
In one sentence describe the product and/or service.
Why is this product/service relevant?
What is unique about this product/service that sets it apart from all
others like it?
Who is this product/service for?
Who does this product/service indirectly effect?
Who would buy the product/service?
Who would influence the purchasing of the product/service?
What is the ultimate goal of the product/service?
What emotions do you associate with this product/service?
What emotions could the person who is purchasing the product/service associate with it?
Is there anyone who does something similar to what you want to do that you admire? Why are you drawn to them?
If a client were to walk away with one impression of the product/service, in one word what would it be?
Do you see this venture as strictly online, a storefront, both, or something else? Explain.
How do you see this venture developing over the next five years?
Where would you like your venture to be financially in ten to fifteen years?
Geographically, where do you see this venture expanding in the present and in the future?
Congratulations
You’ve taken a huge step towards establishing your brand and making your mark on the world. There is a lot of road left to travel but the journey is sure to be smoother now that you have a map. Stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3 of A Guide to Unveiling the Essence of Your Brand.
Resources
As Alina Wheeler would say, “No one does it alone.” The following is a list of resources that I referenced as well as drawing upon my own experience in the field to compile this workbook for you.
Designing Brand Experiences, Robin Landa
Designing Brand Identity 3rd Edition, Alina Wheeler
