Legally Branded: [How To] Protect Your IP The Right Way

TM, verified badges, digital certificates, and everything in between - it’s safe to say that in today's world of abundant information, access to knowledge, and the rise of deep fakes, we're all searching for who’s legit and who we can trust.

This is where the legal side of branding steps in, and it’s safe to say, it can be overwhelming.

Figuring out what's what, where to start, and how to protect yourself and your intellectual property can be a real challenge.

As we are going deeper into the topic of developing your signature frameworks around your IP and monetising it, we can't ignore the business and legal side of things.

And if you think it's not crucial or relevant to you, think again because we're also talking about trademarking your name, aka your personal brand.

There’s no better person to shed some light on this usually quite dry topic of law than today’s guest: Donna Patane .

We crossed paths last year at the Tropical Innovation Festival Festival in Cairns, where she was the MC for my keynote and wowed the audience with her keynotes afterwards.

Let me tell you - I’ve never heard anyone make law so fun and easy to understand. So, needless to say, Donna is the Trusted Authority on all things IP and trademark law for start-ups and scale-ups.

Make sure to check out DRIPL - her business and connect with Donna on LinkedIn because she is one handy lady to know.

In this conversation we cover:

• The difference between a business name and a trademark
• The changes we have seen over the last few years when it comes to protecting IP
• The type of IP you can and can’t legally protect
• The difference between trademark, copyright, patents
• Signature frameworks: Can you trademark a process or framework or just the name?
• With OpenAI tools and sources, as well as blockchain, how the landscape has changed, and how it continues to evolve
• … and a ton more!

The take aways in a nutshell:

Why IP matters

Intellectual property isn't just a single concept; it encompasses a wide range of protections designed to safeguard your creative and innovative efforts.?

IP serves as the backbone of innovation and creativity in the business world. Donna broke down IP into seven distinct categories: patents, trademarks, designs, copyright, confidential information, plant breeders' rights, and circuit layout rights.?

The Power of Trademarks in Today's Market

With the transition to a wisdom economy, trademarks have never been more crucial. A common misconception is that registering a business name offers protection and rights over a name—Donna explains why this isn't the case. The real strength lies in trademark registration, offering you exclusive rights and setting your brand apart in a saturated market.

IP Literacy: A Must-Have Skill

For professionals and business leaders, IP literacy is not optional; it's essential. Understanding how to protect your intellectual assets is not only about legal security—it's about ensuring your business can grow, innovate, and stay ahead in the wisdom economy.

Personal Branding Meets IP

We all know that personal branding can make or break your business so protecting your name and unique methodologies is crucial. Especially for those whose business heavily relies on their personal reputation, trademarking your name and distinctive methods can provide a significant edge.

Incorporating IP into Your Strategy

Our conversation with Donna is a powerful reminder of IP's role in modern business success. Whether you're in tech, design, or building a personal brand, integrating IP law into your strategy is crucial.?

Learn more about DRIPL: https://dripl.com.au

Connect with Donna Patane on LinkedIn: https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/donnapatane/

With all this information, how do you plan to embrace IP as a cornerstone of your strategic planning?

The above article is from Episode 135 of the Trusted Authority? - From Unknown To Known - The Podcast. Each week, I share practical strategies, tactics, tools and tips to help you go from being the Technical Expert (and usually the best kept secret) to become the Go-To, the Trusted Authority in your field.

Listen in [and subscribe while you're there] now on your favourite podcast player.

PS ...

Want to become the Trusted Authority in your field by building and monetising your expertise?

Here are a few ways you can get started with my resources:

1.) Get your copy of my my book - Trusted Authority - From Technical Expert To Trusted Authority? ?

2.) Book your complimentary 20min Strategy Session

3.) Connect with Petra Zink on LinkedIn

Check out all show notes and further resources over at https://www.impaccct.com