Reduce the Time it Takes to Properly Manage Your Social Media

Written by Robyn T. Braley

You know you should do it. But, you've been putting it off for all of these years. You have a personal Facebook page and know social media can be addictive. Yes Virginia, if not done properly, it can be a complete-time waster. 

As you think about the time required to launch and manage a social media program for your business, chills may run down your spine! I'm here to tell you, it doesn’t have to be like that.

Relax. There's hope. I'm here to tell you, it doesn’t have to be like that.

Before going further, let's ask this question, "Why does my business need social media as part of its brand program?" 

The answer is simple. Social media has become part of the fabric of doing business. 

According to one source, 60% of the buying decision process is completed before a sales rep is ever contacted or you go into a place of business. The potential customer, employee, supplier or other people of interest has checked out the product or company online.

My kids never buy anything before thoroughly checking it out online. I’ve been with them in a retail store when they’ve used their phone to compare a competitor’s product. My son-in-law is a master at comparative shopping.

What You Need to Know Before Launching Social Media for Business

Written by Robyn T. Braley

I know you’ve heard it. "Forget Social Media. It’s just a passing fad!"

The next time someone at your company says that, ask them to take an Aspirin, Tylenol or Advil. Then, ask them to lay down and rest until the feeling passes!

Is it finally time for your business to launch a social media program? Think about it this way.

Why Your Personal Brand Matters!

Written by Robyn T. Braley

The people who matter to your career and business growth have an opinion about you. Whether you are the CEO of a large corporation, a student, warehouse worker, teacher, online marketer, pest control technician, truck driver, welder, farmer, salesperson or bootstrapper, what they think matters and will influence your success or failure.

Each of us has a brand. For those who own a business, your company brand will usually be closely aligned with your personal brand, particularly in the early years. It only makes sense that the business will take on the personality of the founder. But, the two brands will still have differences.

Defining your personal brand requires authenticity and transparency. Begin by asking pointed questions that require thoughtful and honest answers. 

1. What am I best known for?
2. What do others think I am known for?
3. What do I want others to know me for?
4. What do I need to change to reshape their opinion?

The answers will help you identify the basic elements of your personal brand. You will find positives to build on, and negatives that need some work. Building your brand is a life-long process that requires periodic self-checks.

Great Logos Connect at an Emotional Level!

An effective logo will communicate the essence of your company!

Written by Robyn T. Braley

You’ve chosen a company name. Now it's time to create a logo. Let’s ask the obvious question. As a start-up, do you really need one?

There is an easy answer! Yes!

Your logo will provide instant recognition. People around the world recognize the Nike swoosh as soon as they see it. It is a simple yet brilliant design!

Your goal is to develop an icon that will become the image that instantly identifies your company in the minds of your customers, employees, suppliers, and the community. As a new company, it signals that you are serious about what you are doing. 

This logo was created by Unimark for an oil & gas company that manufactures a product that eliminates unwanted emissions into the atmosphere during refining. 

Loyal Brandit readers know that my constant theme is branding. Everything comes back to the brand.

And, what is a brand? A brand is what others think it is. Plain and simple.

StartUp Funding! Tips, Ideas for Bootstrappers

Written by Robyn T. Braley

If you are reading Brandit for the first time, we are in the midst of a series packed full of practical ideas about how to Bootstrap a company into existence. If you are about to start a business and have limited capital, you are in the right place for tips and ideas.

Many Bootstrappers are thrust unexpectedly into starting their own business. The timing is not always of their own choosing. Some were downsized and left with few other options.

The key is to have passion and enthusiasm for what you are about to do. With little money to work with, knowledge, ingenuity and persistence will be your primary resources. Add a healthy dose of motivation, and you are good to go!

At some point, Bootstrappers need capital. Without sounding cliché, it takes money to make money. However, before scheduling a meeting with your banker, let’s explore a variety of options for leveraging your resources.