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— Paul Bear Bryant

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/services/" data-type="page" data-id="6">BRAND POWER</a> / The symbolism of brands is powerful. Even if it is not always intentional, the value that a brand brings to our lives can be captured through symbolism in many ways. The branding process goes way back in history. Still, the most prominent example of this is probably the Ancient Egyptians with their pyramids and obelisks surrounding temples to represent protection, power, or even immortality.</h2> <p>The Incas used quipu to catalog information on strings knotted together based on their numerical properties. The quipus were divided into categories where knots represented physical things like animals, plants, etc. </p> <p>These numbers acted as mathematical operations by combining counters with other numbers to form hierarchical structures to keep track of events in certain societies.</p> <p>However, others have tried and failed because, despite the Western belief that numbers could not possibly be used for anything other than mathematical operations, they can hold much more profound meaning in different cultures if you look closely enough.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Visual Imagery</h2> <p>So, let's look at one of the most prominent examples of how brands use symbolism is imagery. A great example is <a href="https://www.coca-colacompany.com/au/news/trace-the-130-year-evolution-of-the-coca-cola-logo" rel="nofollow">Coca-Cola's famous logo</a>: Two gentle waves forming a dynamic ribbon.</p> <p>Yes, it's open for interpretation, and some people will argue whether it is a nod to the past or a symbol of modernity. Either way, it still creates an emotional reaction in most people when they see it.</p> <p>So, another great example would be Nike's <strong>"swoosh" logo. </strong></p> <p>It might just look like something that a child drew, but it has meaning behind it as well. The logo can be interpreted as an arrow running through the "O."</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/nike-logo-on-wall-1024x682.jpg" alt="Brand Power" class="wp-image-4199"/><figcaption>Just do it. Really means, just do it and buy those nike's</figcaption></figure> <p>In this case, the swoosh represents moving forward and progressing in life while overcoming obstacles along the way. Then once you add "Nike" to the brand, this brings a whole new set of meanings into play with its symbolism associated with Greek mythology: victory and gods of war which makes sense considering their slogan is, <strong>" Just do it."</strong></p> <p>So, you might think that these brands have a massive budget for advertising and have plans to incorporate symbolism into their logos. However, the truth is that most companies today still use text-based logos rather than imagery.</p> <p>However, suppose a brand can pull off an effective logo that well represents its company. In that case, it gives them a distinct advantage over similar brands simply because they are making strides towards solid branding. </p> <p>Their strong branding allows them to resonate with consumers deeper because what they represent goes way beyond just selling products.</p> <p>The brand effect is the idea that merely exposing a person to an arbitrary logo can lead them to make assumptions about the quality of products in other categories.</p> <p>A study done once performed in 2007 found that participants who were exposed to a fake Mont Blanc pen were more likely to think they'd be successful, even when controlling for class, education, and income and that participants who were exposed to a fake $3 off coupon for an expensive food item associated the food with higher status than those in the control group.</p> <p>The likelihood of deciding against doing business with a company increases when the amount spent is more significant. Consumers may feel more comfortable spending less money on products from companies they perceive as less reputable.</p> <p>A study performed at the University of Wisconsin found that as brand strength increased among consumers who had bought products from those companies were more likely to purchase their following product because they know what to expect and are thus more satisfied with them than those who had less invested or not bought anything.</p> <p>But, as brand strength increases among those who have not bought products from the company, they may be most likely to be turned off by negative advertising or news reports. This is because they have little to no experience with them and thus have nothing invested in them, so less favorable information affects their company perceptions.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Branding in Business = Brand Power</h2> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/luxury-brand-power-875x1024.jpg" alt="Brand Power " class="wp-image-4872" width="287" height="336"/><figcaption>LAMBORGHINI</figcaption></figure></div> <p>Employers are looking for workers who can help their businesses grow, and they often look to the education system to find them. While attending college is certainly not a requirement to work in many industries, it is an effective way for professionals aspiring to rise the corporate ladder to differentiate themselves from their peers.</p> <p>A prime example of this is the perceived superiority of a firm, product, or service due to its association with an attractive institutional identity. This branding concept is most associated with luxury products and name brands but may be used in any industry or organization, including college diplomas and university logos.</p> <p>The Pew Research Center (a non-partisan think tank) recently investigated this phenomenon. In a series of phone interviews, researchers asked people from various educational backgrounds to rate two fictitious products based on their quality and price compared to their competitors.</p> <p>The first product was described as "a French bicycle that costs $1,500," The second was "a German bicycle that costs $1,500." Participants were asked to assume that both bikes are part of the same company, the standard fare, and an upscale version.</p> <p>Some 80 percent of respondents declared that they would purchase the French bicycle over its German counterpart, citing reasons such as superior craftsmanship and better materials in addition to a more attractive price tag.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"> </h2> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Social Media added Brand Power</h2> <p>In today's world, you can't walk two feet without being bombarded by an advertisement. With the ever-increasing amounts of ads daily, it's easy to lose sight of the purpose of ads. Companies must find different ways to sell their products in a world where products are mediocre. So, one way that is becoming increasingly popular is using brand power to achieve their implicit aims.</p> <p>Brand power has become an increasingly important tool in advertising because of the widespread usage of social media. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/do-something-great-1024x418.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4873"/></figure> <p>So, today, more and more people are sharing their opinions about products they use or have used, making it increasingly important for companies to build a positive reputation. </p> <p>Studies have shown that brand power is highly influential in persuasive communication, and thus, the use of brands has become extremely important in advertising.</p> <p>People are more likely to trust other people's opinions over advertisements, making social proof a powerful, persuasive tool. Building a good reputation for a brand can be highly beneficial. If people believe that an advertised product will work because others have trusted it, they are more likely to purchase it.</p> <p>When a company has more power over its competitors, it is more likely to persuade consumers into buying its products. The power of the brand is used as a persuasive tool on social media to try and influence consumers' opinions. How often a post about a brand is shared or how many likes it receives can be affected.</p> <p>Companies need to keep their brand power up to maintain control over other brands, persuading their customers the most.</p> <p>So, the more powerful the brand, the more likely other people are to share posts, making it more influential on social media.</p> <p>Whereas product features are concrete and verifiable, brand image is fluid and more open to interpretation. Thus, people may be more influenced by what the brand means than what it offers. This is because the brand is connected to the product and its use, and people can easily connect specific ideas or feelings with a particular brand. </p> <p>Most definitely, this has become more prevalent in the last decade because of the increased usage of social media.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p> <p>The marketing process has been around for thousands of years and has only changed physically as it advances technologically. While this is important for businesses to keep up with the times, it is also great to see that brands still find ways to stay connected with people on a deeper emotional level through symbolism which gives them an advantage over similar competitors.</p> <p>Brand power is one of the most persuasive tools in the business! </p>

Brand Power is one of the most persuasive tools in the business

BRAND POWER / The symbolism of brands is powerful. Even if it is not always intentional, the value that a brand brings to our lives can be captured through symbolism in many ways. The branding process goes way back in history. Still, the mos…
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="the-psychology-behind-strategic-marketing-in-branding">The psychology behind strategic <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/is-branding-an-art-science-or-a-little-bit-of-both/" data-type="post" data-id="4477">marketing in branding</a>, is really what we're talking about, when it comes to; What is marketing strategy.</h3> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="many-factors-may-influence-brand-success-but-one-thing-is-sure-it-has-everything-to-do-with-psychology-brand-awareness-seems-so-easy-to-achieve-yet-its-complex-misdirection-makes-it-challenging-to-pinpoint-just-exactly-what-happens-behind-the-scenes-during-a-successful-marketing-campaign"><strong>Many factors may influence brand success, but one thing is sure:</strong> it has everything to do with psychology. <strong>Brand awareness seems so easy to achieve, yet its complex misdirection makes it challenging to pinpoint just exactly what happens behind the scenes during a successful <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/create-a-legacy-with-marketing/" data-type="post" data-id="4776">marketing campaign</a>. </strong></h2> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>It starts as a good idea:</strong></h2> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Create a product or service.</li><li>Find a target audience.</li><li>Advertise until your company is well known.</li></ol> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="what-could-be-simpler-what-could-be-more-logical">What could be simpler?  <br>What could be more logical?</h2> <p class="has-drop-cap">A marketer's job is more complex than simply creating a product or service. They must make this product or service need in customers' minds by playing with their emotions and cognitive biases. But why are these psychological tactics so essential to marketing success? The following blog post will answer that question and give examples of these techniques at work. </p> <p>The first step involves knowing your audience; understanding what they're looking for, whether it's something tangible or not. This brings into play a vital principle discussed earlier: association. Associating your brand with values that are highly valued by your target demographic can help increase customer engagement (similarities). </p> <p>Using the same principles that advertisers and marketers use to convince people to purchase toothpaste brands can create similar effects for your brand.</p> <p>Once customers are <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/services/" data-type="page" data-id="6">engaged</a>, it becomes easier to convince them of the need for your product or service. So, this is where repetition comes into play; continually showing customers how they will benefit by using your brand over competitors' brands helps solidify the fact in their minds <strong>(cognitive consistency). </strong></p> <p>They begin to engage more with your advertisements because these messages seem familiar. By continuously running ads with this branding message, customers eventually start looking out for these benefits when shopping around for future purchases (neglecting cognitive biases).</p> <p><strong>This brings us to our following principle: perceived scarcity.</strong> Marketers have been using this principle since long before you or I were born. Its why products are still sold at "buy one get one free" deals, even though they're not free because there is no way to buy just one. The same principle applies to limited edition items, flash sales, and other successful marketing strategies. So, by creating that sense of urgency around your product or service, consumers are forced to make decisions more quickly (without thinking about it).</p> <p>We all know how powerful word-of-mouth can be regarding branding, but this isn't the only application for <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/organic-traffic-vs-paid-traffic-why-you-should-care/" data-type="post" data-id="4509">psychology in branding strategies</a>. For example, customer reviews have been shown to affect consumer confidence in brands immediately; seeing positive reviews about your product or service immediately makes you feel better about the purchase (even if it's something that you've never tried before).</p> <p>These principles are constantly in play whenever a company advertises its products. Great marketers know how to play on our emotions, fears, and cognitive biases. They use association to convince you that your life will be better by purchasing something they want to sell you; repetition ensures that this message becomes ingrained in your mind; perceived scarcity forces you to make decisions quickly; and lastly, word-of-mouth is used as an immediate endorsement for customers who have had positive experiences with brands.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="more-people-get-interested-in-learning-how-to-create-fantastic-personal-brands"><strong>More people get interested in learning how to create fantastic personal brands.</strong></h2> <p><strong><em>When it comes to branding yourself, you're essentially selling yourself as the product, which is why many call self-branding "personal marketing." Like any other form of branding, this process is based on creating a positive impression in the minds of others but with one significant difference: the person who's doing the branding is also doing the buying. </em></strong></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Marketing-strategy-1024x683.jpg" alt="what is marketing strategy " class="wp-image-4824" width="843" height="457"/></figure> <p>This means that your <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/why-good-stories-storytelling-is-the-key-to-your-success/" data-type="post" data-id="4621">reputation</a> reflects directly on your brand, and if you want to be taken seriously in most situations, you need to think about how people will react whenever you do something stupid or embarrassing. </p> <p>It doesn't matter if everyone else makes mistakes, too; just because someone else gets away with making mistakes doesn't mean that you should follow their example. </p> <p>No one likes the person who flaunts their mistakes in everyone's face because it makes you feel like they're trying to prove that they're better than you. So even though making mistakes is something that we all must do at some point or another, if you want people to take you seriously, it should be done as infrequently as possible (or ideally, not at all).</p> <p>If someone does choose to create a negative impression of themselves, no matter how small or insignificant the transgression may seem, don't make the mistake of thinking that this provides an opportunity for them to redeem their reputation. They've already lost your respect and trust, so any further opportunities for redemption are likely going to be discarded by most people whenever they're presented. </p> <p>That doesn't just mean that good things won't happen if you give second chances; it also means that, more than likely, bad things will happen instead of good things. When you think about it in terms of probabilities and statistics, the likelihood of seeing a positive outcome is much higher when you don't give anyone a second chance at all.</p> <div class="wp-block-cover is-light" style="min-height:473px;aspect-ratio:unset;"><span aria-hidden="true" class="has-background-dim-0 wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-dim"></span><img class="wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-4828" alt="" src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/What-is-marketing-strategy-down-1024x683.jpg" data-object-fit="cover"/><div class="wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow"> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>As marketers, we understand how powerful these principles can be for shaping public opinion, so why don't we use them to our advantage whenever possible?</p></blockquote> <p></p> </div></div> <p>Check out the "<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2016/07/07/the-psychology-behind-marketing/?sh=16e627b8d156" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Psychology Behind Marketing</a>" article at the <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2016/07/07/the-psychology-behind-marketing/?sh=16e627b8d156" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forbes.com</a> website.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="power-in-principles">Power in Principles Marketing Strategy</h2> <p>As marketers, we understand how powerful these principles can be for shaping public opinion, so why don't we use them to our advantage whenever possible? For example: did you know that the amount of time advertisers spends promoting their product has minimal impact on how well they do during advertising campaigns? </p> <p>According to many <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/case-study/hurst-home-company-case-study/" data-type="post" data-id="1420">studies</a>, spending twice as long promoting something yields no more significant benefits in generating consumer interest in the product. So, as a result, some people think that this is a waste of time at best and that it's counterproductive to spend more time promoting something when the results end up being no better than the results would have been if you had put in extra time and effort.</p> <p>This happens because marketers are often very good at creating positive associations with their products through advertising alone, which means that there's no need to sell people on the product itself. </p> <p>If anything, spending twice as much time promoting something can make people lose interest in what you're selling simply by giving them too many reasons to avoid buying it even if they don't understand why your product needed all those explanations to begin with! </p> <p>This isn't intentional, mind you, but it does show you how even those who understand the principles of branding can still get it completely wrong when they don't think about the psychology behind them.</p> <div class="wp-block-image is-style-rounded"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/good-vibe-marketing-e1645633792229-1024x1024.jpg" alt="What is Marketing Strategy" class="wp-image-4830" width="405" height="405"/></figure></div> <p>The next time someone tries to reinvent themselves through self-branding, pay attention to what they're saying and doing and pay more attention to their actions than their words. Once we learn that we need to always look for consistency between a person's words and actions, we quickly realize that people generally only lie through their words, not their actions. </p> <p>If there is a mismatch between what an individual says and what they do, then that is the opportunity for us all to call out the inconsistency. In some cases, you'll be rewarded with praise from others if you're calling out something they've been experiencing for years, but at the very least, you'll be able to save everyone from wasting their time and energy hoping that someone will finally change.</p> <p>If they somehow manage to pull off a successful reinvention, then all of this is just a waste of your time. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way either. If you know something about a person's past actions and behavior, there's no reason to think that the future version will be different. </p> <p>There may have been some reasons in the past for why it made sense to behave in whatever manner the person chose, but once those benefits are taken away by circumstance or choice, nothing is stopping them from being exactly who they were. </p> <p>The only thing left standing between a person, and their past behavior is the fear of being exposed, not the lack of desire to do what they used to do.</p> <p>Actions speak louder than words, and this is especially the case when people get together. Attempting to "brand" yourself as something new may feel like a good idea, but often, it falls short of making any real change happen. If anything, all it takes is one person around them calling out the inconsistency between actions and words, and suddenly they're right back where they started: with nothing having changed at all.</p>

What is marketing strategy?

The psychology behind strategic marketing in branding, is really what we’re talking about, when it comes to; What is marketing strategy. Many factors may influence brand success, but one thing is sure: it has everything to do with psychol…
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<p>Snow is a big part of any ski resort, but some places in the United States receive more snow than others, and some of us want a <strong>snow day!</strong></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Here are the top five snowiest places in the United States:</h2> <p>5. Sundown, <strong>Vermont</strong></p> <p>Sundown is a small town located in southern Vermont. In February 2015, this place received an enormous amount of snowfall - 111 inches!</p> <p>4. Red Lodge, <strong>Montana</strong></p> <p>This city in southern Montana receives an average of 539 inches of snow per year. That's even more than the town known for skiing, Jackson Hole, Wyoming (495 inches). Yes - more than 500 inches! This is because Red Lodge sits at 6,700 feet while Jackson Hole only has 6,400 feet of elevation.</p> <p>3. Pavlof, <strong>Alaska</strong></p> <p>This is an island town just off the coast of Alaska, In the United States. Pavlof receives over 700 inches of snow every year! This is because it's at a much higher altitude than other places in North America, sitting right next to the ocean - perfect for creating vast amounts of snow.</p> <p>2. Valdez, <strong>Alaska</strong></p> <p>Located on the coast in southern Alaska, Valdez averages over 800 inches of snow every year! Since it is located next to the ocean and surrounded by mountains, it gets hit hard with snowy weather.</p> <p>1. Thompson Pass, <strong>Alaska</strong></p> <p>The Thompson Pass in Alaska is the snowiest place in the United States - getting an average of 1,300 inches of snow every year. Located in southcentral Alaska, it sits right on the coast and is surrounded by glaciers that constantly give this city incredibly high amounts of snowfall.</p> <p><strong>Ultimately, snowflakes are unique, beautiful, and short-lived formations.</strong></p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Winter is Here — Snowiest Cities in the World</h1> <p>Check out the <strong>Average</strong> snowflakes for these snowiest cities in the world.</p> <div class="wp-block-cover has-background-dim has-custom-content-position is-position-top-left"><img class="wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-4758" alt="" src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Niseko-edited-1-1024x638.jpg" data-object-fit="cover"/><div class="wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow"> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Niseko, Japan a Avg. 50 feet of snowfall</li><li>Alyeska, Alaska USA Avg. 33 feet of snowfall</li><li>Chamonix, France Avg. 31 feet of snowfall</li><li>Washington, New Hampshire, USA Avg. 23 feet of snowfall</li><li>Akita, Japan Avg. 12 feet of snowfall</li><li>John's, New Foundland and Labrador, Canada Avg. 10 feet of snowfall</li><li>Syracuse, New York, USA Avg. of 10 feet of snowfall</li></ol> </div></div> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">The top three snowiest research areas on Earth are all located in Antarctica.</h1> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dome A</h2> <p>The number one spot is a summit called Dome A, an average annual snowfall of 19 feet.</p> <p>Researchers from the Joint Institute for Regional Earth System Science and Engineering have monitored this area since 2009 with un-crewed weather stations, each equipped with Global Positioning Systems (GPS).</p> <p>In the last seven years, they have recorded a total of 762 feet of accumulated snow.</p> <p><strong>Dome A</strong> is about 3250 meters above sea level and can be found near the Australian research station Casey Station. This unique location gets approximately 50 inches of precipitation per year – 10 times more than New York City!</p> <p>Most information about <strong>Dome A </strong>is highly protected to prevent damage to instruments placed around the site.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Vostok Station</h2> <p>Number two on the list is:</p> <p><strong>Vostok Station,</strong> which lies at 3488 meters above sea level. It has an average snowfall of 18 feet every year. Not only does it get tons of snow, but temperatures can reach as low as -128 degrees Fahrenheit!</p> <p>Temperatures are so cold that scientists who study there must sleep in capsules under heat lamps to stay warm enough to function.</p> <p>The site was discovered by Russian scientists back in 1958 and has been under continuous observation ever since.</p> <p>While <strong>Dome A</strong> shows just how much snow can accumulate over multiple decades, Vostok proves that the continent of Antarctica is definitely home to some of the harshest weather on Earth.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dome Fuji</h2> <p>The number three spot goes to:</p> <p><strong>Dome Fuji </strong>with 14 of snow per year on average and, it is also located in the same East Antarctic ice sheet as <strong>Dome A </strong>and <strong>Vostok Station.</strong></p> <p>The Japanese built a research station there back in 2005. Since then, researchers have been digging through three meters of snow to measure temperature increases at least four times per year, which has helped them better understand climate change in Antarctica.</p> <p>Many animals live in this snowy desert, including snails, mites, and nematodes.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dome Argus</h2> <p>Coming in fourth place is:</p> <p><strong>Dome Argus</strong> with an average annual snowfall of 13 feet 7 inches. This unique Dome lies in Western Antarctica and rests atop a relatively flat expanse of ice called the interior layered deposits (ILD).</p> <p>Its summit is about 3400 meters above sea level, but experts expect it to increase by 2100. Dome Argus is in the center of West Antarctica that has experienced some of the greatest warmings on Earth since the 1970s.</p> <p>If this trend continues at <strong>Dome Argus,</strong> it will melt and result in a global sea-level rise.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Byrd Station</h2> <p>The <strong>Byrd Station</strong> in East Antarctica makes number 5 on the list with 12 feet 4 inches of snowfall each year. This research station holds the coldest temperature (-135 degrees Fahrenheit) and the most incredible wind speed (2240 km/h).</p> <p>Scientists at this site monitor climate change all around Antarctica by measuring meteorological, magnetic, seismic, and other variables. They also record ice core samples left behind by earlier explorers who visited the region before advanced weather monitoring systems were available.</p> <p>The 2002-2003 Antarctic winter recorded the most snowfall accumulation in this location. This was also the coldest period on record since researchers started keeping track back in 1957.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dome C</h2> <p><strong>Last but not least is:</strong></p> <p><strong>Dome C </strong>with 12 feet of snow per year. Every place mentioned thus far only gets an average of about 12 feet of snow each year because there are so many other locations where less precipitation falls annually.</p> <p>Located near the French-Italian Concordia Station, this Dome is made up of two distinct areas:</p> <p>A northern and southern plateau (with altitudes at 3300 meters and 3600 meters, respectively). While this area at <strong>Dome C </strong>may not get as much snow as its counterparts, it has been under continuous observation since 2004–2005 by scientists from all over the world.</p> <p>The site was chosen because of its location in the center of East Antarctica and near Concordia Station. It also receives less snowfall than <strong>Dome Argus</strong> but more than <strong>Dome Fuji,</strong> making it ideal for research purposes.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/antarctica-2-scaled-e1642013407491-1024x677.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4752"/></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wow, that's a lot of snow!</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">"To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake, it is necessary to stand out in the cold." - Aristotle.</h3> <p>So, as the snow falls outside wherever you are this winter, I hope at some point during the winter season, as we are watching the beautiful white stuff descend upon us, we will enjoy time to curl up by a fire with a good book or movie and have a nice piping hot cup of cocoa.</p> <div class="wp-block-cover alignleft has-background-dim-30 has-background-dim" style="min-height:548px;aspect-ratio:unset;"><img class="wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-4759" alt="" src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/grannys-hot-cocoa-819x1024.jpg" data-object-fit="cover"/><div class="wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow"> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Grandma's Old-fashioned cocoa recipe.</h2> <p>1/4 cup. granulated sugar<br>1/4 cup. un-sweetened cocoa powder<br>pinch of salt<br>1/4 cup. hot water<br>Two cup milk</p> <p></p> </div></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Favorite toppings:</h2> <p>Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, ground cinnamon, cinnamon sticks, cloves, marshmallows.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Instructions:</h2> <p>In a small saucepan, whisk the cocoa and the sugar with the salt. Whisk in hot water until it is smooth. Add the milk and stir very well until combined.</p> <p>Continue to heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until hot. Divided into your favorite mugs and add toppings to your specifications.</p> <p><strong>Enjoy!</strong></p> <p></p>

Snowiest Places in the USA

Snow is a big part of any ski resort, but some places in the United States receive more snow than others, and some of us want a snow day! Here are the top five snowiest places in the United States: 5. Sundown, Vermont Sundown is a s…
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Staging real estate for sale is more than just decorating. A professional real estate agent knows that a house is only as good as its first impression, and many buyers will not even look beyond the home's front exterior. In fact, according to statistics from Realtor.com, 91% of buyers now start their home search online before ever stepping foot into a home in person.</h2> <p class="has-drop-cap">For a home to sell quickly and for top dollar, it is crucial that the agent market the house online through high-quality photos. Professional real estate photographer stagers recommend taking advantage of this opportunity by photographing your home at its absolute best.</p> <p></p> <p></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7868-1024x683.jpg" alt="Real Estate Photography " class="wp-image-4683"/></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dynamic Duo</h2> <p><strong>Photography & Staging</strong></p> <p>Staging a home or space is not just for residential real estate; it's also used to show off custom homes built by custom home builders worldwide for individuals who want photos of their homes and for corporate and commercial real estate needs.</p> <p>Professional real estate marketing, whether building, buying, or selling, requires a professional photographer, at the very least. It also requires a professional stager to make properties photo-ready.</p> <p>So, if what you are looking for is professional guidance in staging your home or custom-built homes, contact a home stager who can help you with the process.</p> <p>If you'd like to find a reliable and experienced company that can provide both services, your best course of action is knowing what each service entails. This way, you'll know what results you should expect from them to be happy with their work.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Professional photographic services</h2> <p>A successful photo shoot for a real estate listing starts with careful planning and ends with final images that are clear, compelling, and attractive. The right professional photographer will tell your story in their photographs, so when it comes time to hire that professional photographer for the job, remember there are some key factors to look out for:</p> <p><strong>Experience</strong>. Always ask how many house listings, commercial real estate, they've photographed before - </p> <p>Be sure to also ask about the professional stager; their experience is just as necessary. If possible, go with a photographer who is familiar with both marketing images and staging images. This person will have an easier time making your listing stand out from others in its market category.</p> <p><strong>Flexibility.</strong> Photographers have two primary ways of working: they are either willing to work within your schedule or need you to follow theirs. It's helpful if you're able to provide them with as much notice as possible - this way, there won't be any last-minute cancellations on your end. </p> <p>However, in some cases, a photographer will need a bit more advanced planning to get the shots they want in time for when your house is shown. In that case, you can either try finding someone else or go with their schedule knowing that it may have an impact on how much notice you're given.</p> <p><strong>Pricing.</strong> There are two ways to price professional photography services: by the hour and by the shoot (flat fee).</p> <p>Going with the hourly rate means having less control over your budget, but paying per shoot means needing to do everything necessary beforehand so as not to run over costs (ex: make sure there's no clutter and all furniture is at the correct angles, etc.).</p> <p>Some photographers offer a combination of both options - this way; you'll get more for your money.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stagers</h2> <p>A stager will bring in furniture from a store or from their own collections, which may help get rid of or maintain some of the clutter in your home. The furniture brings out a sense of orderliness and beauty to your otherwise less appealing home. The stager helps make the rooms warm and welcoming by using accessories, paint colors, art pieces, and textiles.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-style-large is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>"A master bedroom will be made more romantic while the dining room speaks luxury with its chandeliers and painting frames being replaced by silver candlesticks and vases filled with flowers."</p></blockquote> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4636-Edit-1024x683.jpg" alt="Real Estate Photography" class="wp-image-4682" width="534" height="356"/></figure></div> <p>A stager also creates the illusion of space by playing with textures, colors, lighting, and furniture. An excellent stager will make a small room look larger than its original size by applying certain tricks in its design process. The entryway is more welcoming by adding vintage luggage or plant containers that draw attention to the house number or welcome mat. A kitchen is shown in its best light using shiny cookware, while the living room looks clean and organized with minimal furniture items in earthy tones.</p> <p>The professional photographer who has done this kind of service many times before will know what shots you want for your home's website or listing in MLS. He will help you get rid of personal belongings like family photos, trophies, and souvenirs. Anything that does not go with the room's overall feel must be removed before the photoshoot begins. The professional photographer will use soft lighting, so your home looks bright and airy, which is vital for an outdoor shot, especially if your house is surrounded by greenery or flowers.</p> <p>They will also know the best angles of each part of your home. They can make a living room look larger than it is by giving it high ceilings where possible or showing its spaciousness using an open concept design. A master bedroom's scenic view will have to be featured in at least one picture, while outside shots are taken for homes nestled by lush vegetation or water bodies.</p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-3 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/7295F3D8-E18A-4BEC-AB7B-96258D73A5B4-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4688" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/7295F3D8-E18A-4BEC-AB7B-96258D73A5B4.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/7295f3d8-e18a-4bec-ab7b-96258d73a5b4/" class="wp-image-4688"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_9445-1024x768.jpg" alt="" data-id="4690" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_9445-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/img_9445/" class="wp-image-4690"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4533-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4691" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4533.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/_dsc4533/" class="wp-image-4691"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7881-683x1024.jpg" alt="" data-id="4685" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7881.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/dsc_7881/" class="wp-image-4685"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7807-1024x705.jpg" alt="" data-id="4684" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7807.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/dsc_7807/" class="wp-image-4684"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7868-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4683" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7868.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/dsc_7868/" class="wp-image-4683"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4636-Edit-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4682" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4636-Edit.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/_dsc4636-edit/" class="wp-image-4682"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4573-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4681" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4573.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/_dsc4573/" class="wp-image-4681"/></figure></li></ul></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">On a budget?</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_9445-1024x768.jpg" alt="on set real estate photography Raleigh NC" class="wp-image-4690"/></figure> <p>So, many individuals may want to sell their homes without making too many changes, like painting walls or knocking down walls, then hiring a photographer and stager might be necessary. The selling points about your home will have to come out naturally through the photos instead. This way, potential buyers can easily see what makes your place desirable and how it can benefit them.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The aim of staging a home for sale is to create the right environment to invite potential buyers into the space and increase comfort, making an impression of value.</h3> <p>Roadblocks can stand in the way of success when it comes to effective staging. If your budget is limited, you can overcome it by learning some tips and tricks of the trade on a shoestring budget.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7881-683x1024.jpg" alt="staging real estate for sale " class="wp-image-4685" width="410" height="615"/></figure></div> <p><strong>Here are seven valuable tips for avid home stagers who have limited budgets:</strong></p> <p><strong>Tip #1 –</strong> Use what you have. For example, set up a seating area with an ottoman as a coffee table and a couple of chairs.</p> <p><strong>Tip #2 – </strong>Let natural light in. Open windows and pull back curtains, allowing the sunshine to brighten up the home.</p> <p><strong>Tip #3 –</strong> Use inexpensive textiles; as you may not be able to afford rugs or expensive sofas right now, you can choose less expensive options like area runners, wall hangings, and window treatments that will dress up a space for your budget.</p> <p><strong>Tip #4 –</strong> Dress up the front door. Use accent pieces to create a focal point and add appeal at the same time.</p> <p><strong>Tip #5 –</strong> Think about curb appeal. Make sure everything is tidy and clean, including the driveway and sidewalks. If necessary, put out flowerpots or plant a garden.</p> <p><strong>Tip #6 –</strong> Make your space unique by adding an extra element like a vintage suitcase to store bed linens, or tie all of the colors in the room together with a throw pillow with bright geometric patterns.</p> <p><strong>Tip #7 – </strong>Use what you have creatively. For example, use plates as picture frames and old mason jars for storing pens and pencils.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">So, as we have heard the old saying go, "one man's trash is another man's treasure."</h3> <p>By adding a few key elements without spending too much money, you can transform any house into an inviting home that potential buyers are sure to love. Never skimp on the professional photographer part; you can save money on your budget by using items you already have for staging your home or space to make it look more inviting. However, professional photos are a must to capture the value of the area.</p> <p>You may be tempted to bring along your camera and take pictures of your house, but the results will not be as satisfactory, especially for those that need to use photos in their Airbnb or VRBO listing. </p> <p>There is a reason why professional real estate photographers and stagers exist, and it is because you won't get the right photo unless they are involved in capturing the best angles of your home.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2> <p><strong>Professional marketing services </strong></p> <p>As far as professional marketing services, whether you choose one service or both, make sure that your real estate marketing company is looking out for your best interests. A good agency will want to provide you with information on how they plan to market your home, neighborhood, and commercial real estate. If the company isn't willing or able to talk about what they can offer, chances are you're better off finding someone else.</p> <p><a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/photography/">www.blevinscreative.com</a></p>

Real Estate Photography, Improve the value of your property or service

Staging real estate for sale is more than just decorating. A professional real estate agent knows that a house is only as good as its first impression, and many buyers will not even look beyond the home’s front exterior. In fact, according t…
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Stories, Life, and Memories!</strong></h2> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Every single day we walk through life—we live it. We live out our own stories as we interact with those around us and as we choose how to spend our free time. Sometimes alone, sometimes surrounded by friends or loved ones, often some combination of the two extremes. Storytelling is intertwined with our daily lives.</h1> <p class="has-drop-cap">Amidst this mixture of experiences and interactions, during our fits and starts of daily activities; in moments taken for granted or cherished forever in memory—our minds are ever keen on gathering information to mold ourselves into stronger individuals, better able to cope with the future when tomorrow finally comes for each one of us despite today never happening quite as you imagined it.</p> <p>Our brains don't work without a story to tell about everything that happens. Some are mundane; some are epic! We are what we make of ourselves based on our brains' stories about the world around us and each interaction with it or another person. The strength in these stories gives us the opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve greatness beyond imagination.</p> <p>Our lives become defined by our memories—not just those of great moments but also important ones. We must remember that no matter how hard we work or how much effort we put into anything, there can be no memory of it without a story. So next time you step up to bat, consider your story:</p> <p>What will people who knew you say?</p> <p>Will they laugh at your failures and cheer your successes?</p> <p>Do you even want them to?</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/article/when-building-a-brand-dont-go-for-second-best/" data-type="post" data-id="4241">Storytelling</a> is not just for Fairy tales</strong>.</h2> <p>Once upon a time, there were no brands. Companies produced stuff and sold it as best they could before their competitors knocked them off the shelf.</p> <p>I know you're thinking, "That sounds awful." And, well, you're right. It was pretty rubbish. However, that's just how it used to be - and now we have brands. And we can thank storytelling for that.</p> <p>You see, back in the day, your only form of advertising was a billboard and a newspaper ad (if you were lucky). That meant you were competing with every other business doing the same thing. The result? More or less, all companies produced similar products, and consumers couldn't tell them apart.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Why-good-stories-are-key-01-1024x691.png" alt="Storytelling " class="wp-image-4623"/></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Enter branding. </strong></h2> <p>By spending money on <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/is-branding-an-art-science-or-a-little-bit-of-both/" data-type="post" data-id="4477">brand building</a>, companies invested in their future success by creating a story around the products they sold. And it worked - to this day, stories still move people. They are even part of how we communicate our sense of identity with others - i.e., "I'm an Apple person" or "I'm a socially conscious dude."</p> <p></p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/story-board-778x1024.jpg" alt="Storytelling Storyboard " class="wp-image-4629" width="398" height="521"/></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>That's deep for breakfast. But it works.</strong></h2> <p>People want to relate to what they buy and be part of something bigger than themselves - this is true whether they're conscious of it or not. I bet you do it yourself with at least one brand. And if you don't, I bet you like the brand (or hate it) for a reason.</p> <p>So, what do you need if you want to make sure your company is successful in today's consumer-centric market? Well, more than anything else, it's a great story! And that's not only because of how we communicate with each other and how we think but also how we make decisions (it's why <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/things-we-love-about-road-trips/" data-type="post" data-id="4055">your parents</a> want you to stop buying clothes and read more).</p> <p>You see, when it comes down to making a purchase, consumers use emotions or rational processes. The former is based on how information makes them <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/services/" data-type="page" data-id="6">feel</a>, and the latter focuses on logic and practicality.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mind Tricks (Ration vs. Emotion)</strong></h2> <p>Ration vs. Emotion may sound a little complicated, but it's not. The best example is how people buy cars. Think about your last car purchase, and you'll realize that the process probably went something like this:</p> <p>1. Look for a car (rational)<br>2. Find one I like (emotional)<br>3 Familiarity - do I know anyone that has one (logic and practical)<br>4. Cost - how much can I afford (logic and practical)<br>5. Color - do I like it (emotional)<br>6. Extras - should I get the automatic/sunroof/upgrade package (emotional and logic + practical)?<br>7. Decision made (emotional)<br>8. Purchase (rational)</p> <p>That was probably an over-simplified version of how you got your shiny new set of wheels, but it demonstrates that people don't just consider the rational aspects of a purchase. They also allow emotions to drive them through the process, which is important because research has shown that emotional decisions are the best predictor of future behavior.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/logical-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4634" width="405" height="405"/></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>How does it relate?</strong></h2> <p>So how does this relate to you? Well, getting your audience to make an emotional connection with your brand is the difference between you being a flash in the pan and having them return again and again (and spending that hard-earned cash).</p> <p>So, if you want your audience to connect with your brand emotionally, you must tell them a story. And that's the beauty of it - it doesn't even have to be original! Just make sure your audience is there with you at every stage.</p> <p>So, for example, when you're writing an advertisement or content marketing piece, make sure they are learning something about the product they wouldn't know otherwise. The ad could talk about how much room there is in the boot or what features make it a safer drive in the car example.</p> <p>That way, you give them information that they can relate to and become more <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/services/" data-type="page" data-id="6">emotionally invested</a> in your product.</p> <p>For your brand, if you want something a little more cohesive - don't just advertise through various outlets; try creating a multi-platform campaign. People are always on their phones or listening to the radio. So, if your audience is a captive one, you can get them invested in your product by giving them information at every stage of the purchasing process.</p> <p>In short, companies have been <strong>telling stories</strong> for years to grab their <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/case-study/hurst-home-company-case-study/" data-type="post" data-id="1420">audience's attention</a> and invest in their brand. But today, people don't just want to be told a story - they want to be part of it too. That's why storytelling is an important marketing tool for your brand, and great storytellers can make or break a company.</p> <p><em>This is your story, and it's important to you.</em></p>

Why good stories “storytelling” is the key to your success!

Stories, Life, and Memories! Every single day we walk through life—we live it. We live out our own stories as we interact with those around us and as we choose how to spend our free time. Sometimes alone, sometimes surrounded by friends o…
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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Marketing to multiple audiences is challenging. It's not just a simple one-word shift, but it requires action and change that can sometimes be difficult to implement—especially for those who have been doing it successfully for many years. It means looking at you’re marketing from a different perspective.</h1> <p>However, with the help of some tools and resources, it is possible to expand your brand and still achieve success.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Branding with Authority</h2> <p class="has-drop-cap">If you aren't already established authority in the industry or niche you are targeting, it can be challenging to get results right away. However, there is no need to panic! With a bit of research and by looking at your competition, you can determine where you stand in the market. Once that is determined, it's just a matter of taking action to improve your authority over time. This could be easy for some, but others may find it more difficult than they expect. So, if this sounds like you or anyone in control of your business, don't worry! Take it one step at a time.</p> <p>Start by creating blog posts, articles, videos, social media updates, etc., to increase your authority in the beginning while also promoting your brand or product. This will help you determine how successful your marketing efforts are over time and any areas you need to improve on.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brand Marketing the Product (The Art of Branding)</h2> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Branding has always been an essential aspect of creating successful marketing campaigns for products. However, with the power of technology and social media updates, it is possible to take branding to a whole different level than it has ever been before.<br></li><li>Promoting your product is fine, but this doesn't mean you are branding it the right way. Many people assume that because they have a website or social media account technically means they are branding their products the right way. However, unfortunately, it takes more than that to stand out in today's day and age.<br></li><li>To indeed have an impact on your audience, you need to be yourself. If you aren't true to who you are as a person or as a company, it will never translate well with the people who follow you or those you are targeting. So, take time to truly understand your target audience, as well as yourself and your product, to brand it from start to finish successfully</li></ol> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brand Influencer Marketing</h2> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>To reach a broader range of people interested in your product or service, you need influencers. That means getting out there and finding the right people that will help promote your brand with the help of their following.<br></li><li>Influencers come with different price points and benefits to working with them, so do your research before you start considering certain people or companies for this position. You want to make sure that they are relevant to your target audience and relevant in terms of what they can offer you and your company.<br></li><li>When you find the right person for the job, don't forget to get creative with promoting it. This could be through a giveaway or campaign that will help attract attention and new followers to you and your brand while making an impact on their lives and yours as well.</li></ol> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"> </h3> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brand Target Audience Demographics (The Science of Branding)</h2> <p>Growing your brand isn't just about getting more people to follow or like what you post or share online. It's also about reaching out to the right audience to give them exactly what they need from your company, product, etc. That means looking at your target audience demographics, which is a fancy way of saying 'who you are targeting.'</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/charts-of-branding-1-1024x833.jpg" alt="Branding Marketing " class="wp-image-4494"/></figure> <p>This includes looking closely at the numbers, including age, location, occupation, etc., to get an even better idea of the type of people you are trying to reach. This will help determine what type of marketing efforts are best suited for these individuals to be achieved quickly and effectively over time.</p> <p>Once you have demographic information about your target audience, it becomes easy to create new marketing strategies that will get their attention once again while making them feel involved with your brand or product. That is all market research is! So, take advantage by getting creative with your efforts while not forgetting about essential aspects such as demographics and what you can do for them to make a real difference.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Knowing Your Competition (The Science of Branding)</h2> <p>Just like we talked about market research, you need to know who your competition is before you even attempt to create a brand identity that sets yourself apart from them any other company or product. This means knowing who they are and understanding the types of marketing efforts they use and their target audience.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Whole Lot of Both:</h2> <p><strong>Strategy -</strong> What aspects should stay consistent to attract the desired customer base while bringing enough of that interest to keep them coming back for more? The "whole lot of both" approach combines marketing strategies to give clientele a greater understanding of what it takes to build an iconic brand. It's not just about attracting a following to a website; it's about showing them you care and provide value to their lives.</p> <div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <p>Brand identity is so crucial because the modern consumer can choose from countless options for specific products. Whether your audience is young or old, you must ensure they can connect with your brand before purchasing, so for that connection to happen, you must appeal to their emotions just as much as their rational side by being relatable and meeting your business goals.</p> </div> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-right is-style-large is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>"A great strategy is a combination of both art and science,</strong> <strong>not just one or the other."</strong></p></blockquote> </div> </div> <p class="has-drop-cap">There are many underlying factors that companies take into consideration when building a successful brand identity today, such as color schemes and fonts: "The right colors convey an emotion which can make all the difference in how consumers perceive and react to a product (or service)." The last thing you want is to be perceived as boring or dull by your target market because then it's game over, no matter how good a product you have.</p> <p>For some companies, building their brand identity is not just to generate revenue but also to establish their name in an industry that may be competitive with other brands. When creating a unique brand experience, companies are more likely to get noticed by potential clients who can quickly lose interest when visiting websites that don't appeal to them. As stated before, the overarching goal is to connect with your audience on multiple levels so they can become loyal customers. This will often lead to higher conversion rates and greater profits once they are converted! "A great strategy is a combination of both art and science, not just one or the other."</p> <p>Having a well-defined branding strategy is helpful when we look at these three questions:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>What is your business's mission and vision?</li><li>What do you want to accomplish for your customers, investors, and employees?</li><li>How will your company be different than competitors?</li></ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Logos</strong></h2> <p>These then help define the characteristics of who you are. A good example would be the <strong>logo. </strong>The image should represent every aspect of what you're all about and convey that in just one picture. So having some consistency across these items will help give an identity to your brand. With this, you can establish trust with consumers while understanding what ultimately defines them as a brand.</p> <div class="wp-block-group"><div class="wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow"> <div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow" style="flex-basis:100%"> <div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Here are three basic rules that brands should follow to help establish a strong brand identity:</h4> <hr class="wp-block-separator is-style-wide"/> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Stay consistent. </li><li>Let your personality shine through. </li><li>Don't overcomplicate it.</li></ol> <hr class="wp-block-separator is-style-wide"/> <p></p> </div> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <p>Your color palette, font, and tone should all be used consistently across different media forms such as social media, website design, etc. This will allow consumers to adapt more quickly to the company while helping them feel more comfortable with what they are seeing. For example, one of the most successful brands out today is Coca-Cola, which extensively uses its colors in its logos across its product line. Another great example is IKEA which has repeated the same image of an older-looking family for almost 40 years!</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div></div> <p>Having this consistency allows people to identify what you stand for quickly. For the personality, this is where you let your creativity take off. If there are specific characteristics about your company that define it as being innovative, creative, etc., show it in a way that will attract your target market. Just because you must follow some rules doesn't mean it has to be boring!</p> <p>Making sure not to overcomplicate things are just as important as anything else. Remember when Apple first released their simple logo with just their name on an apple? And now look at their logos today! There are so many changes that they made but still considered what made it successful in the past and modifying it for future use. Creating an "iconic brand" is all about keeping things simple while adding the necessary tweaks to ensure it stays fresh and relevant.</p> <p>Since brand identity is so important, there are a lot of existing factors that can help support your branding strategies:</p> <p>• <strong>Custom logos: </strong>If done correctly and with the same principle above, it can help build a brand. If you want to be serious and professional, avoid cartoon-like images that may try too hard to keep your audience's attention.</p> <p>• <strong>Website design: </strong>Whether it's a landing page or an extensive microsite (brands like Coca-Cola have), make sure it fits your necessary branding guidelines such as colors, fonts, logos, etc. This will help establish an image for users before they even see any content on the site! Just like print advertising goes hand in hand with TV ads, a website should go hand in hand with social media platforms to convey a message across every different platform.</p> <p>With everything that goes into branding, it takes a lot of communication and coordination across the company. Whether you call yourself an art director or designer, don't forget about all these factors while establishing your brand identity!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Conclusion:</strong></h2> <p>As stated above, it is crucial to keep your brand consistent across all digital and physical media you use (and even in the office!) while still incorporating characteristics that define your business and will attract people to you! Let's keep in mind that many factors are involved in building a solid brand identity, such as color, fonts, logos, and even your website design, so remember to involve all parties when creating a brand strategy.</p> <p></p>

Is Branding an Art, Science, or a little bit of Both

Marketing to multiple audiences is challenging. It’s not just a simple one-word shift, but it requires action and change that can sometimes be difficult to implement—especially for those who have been doing it successfully for many years. It…
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