4 Ways to Build Your Brand on a Budget

When you’re a small business owner, or an individual contributor (salesperson), building your brand is crucial to long term success. However, most of us normal folks just don’t have a large budget to work with in this area. So, here are 4 affordable ways to help you build your professional brand and style without breaking the bank!

1. Leverage Social Media: Yes, of course you’re on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and the rest, but are you using them correctly? Are you posting business content that only your old High School and College friends will see? (I have a ton of friends who do this and expect to get business from it!) Here are some ideas to get you going:

·???????? Create multiple profiles on platforms that align with your target audience (not your buddies).

·???????? Use them to share engaging content that people want to see/read.

·???????? Interact with followers throughout the day.

·???????? Find creative and fun ways to showcase your brand's personality.

·???????? Be consistent with your posting and storytelling that will help you build a loyal community.

2. Develop a Clear Brand Identity: Too many small business owners continue to change-up what they are about too often. When they do this, it sends mixed messages to their prospect base about who they are and what they do. These ideas can help:

·???????? Focus on creating a strong visual identity (logo, color palette, typography)

·???????? Use free or low-cost design tools like Canva.

·???????? Ensure your messaging is consistent across all platforms to help reinforce your brand.

·???????? Read at least 3 books on branding to get a better understanding of this step.

3. Network and Collaborate: Small business owners continue to think that they are above this step, that since they advertise, business will magically show up at their door. Unless you’re Target/Walmart, you better make sure people in your area know who you are!

·???????? Attend local events like those help by the Chamber

·???????? Join online communities

·???????? Connect with other businesses for cross-promotions.

·???????? Collaborate with complementary brands that can help expand your reach and create mutual benefits without hefty marketing expenses.

4. Utilize Content Marketing: Content marketing is what you’re experiencing right now. I am providing information to help you build your business with this article and its content. This is more than an ad, it’s information that is useful and actionable for YOU right away.

·???????? Start a blog or a newsletter to share valuable content related to your industry.

·???????? Position yourself as an authority to help improve your visibility online.

·???????? Create content at little or no cost, especially if you write it yourself or invite guest contributors.

·???????? Share an article from another web site that your audience might find helpful.