why great startups need great branding?

Isn’t it fascinating to see a new brand every time you scroll through your social ? From bamboo clothing to wellness brands to 21-day online transformation workshops, all-natural products, powders, and even weight-loss chocolates—the magic of these offerings often makes us hit the buy button almost instantly.

What’s even more interesting is that many of these startups are founded by young adults who haven’t been to business school or who have left cushy jobs abroad to return to India and pursue their dreams!

In this highly competitive startup landscape, it’s no surprise that these entrepreneurs have rewritten the marketing playbook. Have you ever wondered how these new-age brands achieve such success? In a single word: superb branding!

Firstly, let’s revisit the meaning of branding. Branding is an identity, a story, and a marketing strategy that sells similar products or services. Strong branding is able to gain space in the minds of potential customers. This generally includes creating a name, logo and other design assets that craft a desired brand image and communicate the true perception/promise of your product or service.

Understanding Startup Branding

We have had some amazing interactions with extraordinary entrepreneurs in their 20s and 30s, who come with shining eyes and eureka ideas but sadly don’t consider the investment needed to create a robust brand plan. Just having a great idea or product with a good logo won’t work if you are unable to market it well.

Gone are the days when traditional rational aspects such as pricing, margins, convenience, and TV ads decided purchases. Today, over 90% of purchases are driven by your promise (the who, what, and USP), your story (the where—emotional engagement, background, inspiration), your vision and values (why—driving force), and finally the visual impact (how-name story, colors, fonts, tone, and every tiny detail). This is all created by branding and branding alone.

Studio Mars branding tips

1. Keep your story, intent, and promise real- this becomes your personality.
2. Your product name is not your company name; consider both in tandem and take care of all legalities beforehand.
3. Seek professional help from a branding agency—not just a friend who can give you a free logo. Firstly, understand what you want. Research and create your own mood board—not just from Pinterest, but from things that truly inspire you!
4. Create a brand book and stick to it- this includes color palettes, tone of voice, fonts, and templates. Many brands get bored easily and think a change would be helpful. Be patient and follow the guidelines—that’s why it’s known as a ‘brand bible’.
5. List out your brand priorities - packaging, website, social media plans, etc.
6. Finally, be patient - good brands aren’t created overnight.

Studio Mars encourages startup dreams and offers a special pricing module. Do reach out to us if you need any assistance.