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When developing a brand, it’s important to be aware of these potential downfalls in order to avoid investing in an ineffective branding strategy. \u003c/p>"},{"question":"What is poor branding?","answer":"\u003cp>Poor branding is a branding strategy that does not perform well for the company. In some cases, poor branding results from a lack of planning before launching a brand. In others, a company may put a lot of thought into their branding efforts but ultimately find that it does not align with their target audience’s wants and needs.\u003c/p>"},{"question":"What is an example of bad branding?","answer":"\u003cp>An example of bad branding is an inconsistent visual identity. When logos, color palettes, fonts, and other visual elements vary too much, it creates a disjointed public image for the brand that fails to become familiar or recognizable.\u003c/p>"},{"question":"What makes branding ineffective?","answer":"\u003cp>Branding can be ineffective due to issues like inauthentic messaging, inconsistent visual elements, and a lack of differentiation from other brands. Problems like these make it harder for a company to connect with the target audience.\u003c/p>"},{"question":"How can I make branding more consistent?","answer":"\u003cp>A style guide is essential for ensuring consistency across all of your branding efforts. The style guide should include specific details for your brand’s visual elements, such as logos, color palettes, and fonts. It should also describe the \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/the-basics-of-brand-identity-and-why-it-matters/\">brand personality\u003c/a> and voice to maintain a consistent tone in your messaging.\u003c/p>"}],"content":[{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Congratulations on starting your new business! You’ve decided to \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/best-online-business-ideas/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">take your idea out of the talking stage\u003c/a> and into the real world. You’re eager to dazzle the internet with vegan recipes on your food blog dedicated to plant-based perfection. Or maybe you’re taking your crafting hobby of crocheting to new heights by setting up an online store. You have the business, but what about the brand? \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Congratulations on starting your new business! You’ve decided to \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/best-online-business-ideas/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">take your idea out of the talking stage\u003c/a> and into the real world. You’re eager to dazzle the internet with vegan recipes on your food blog dedicated to plant-based perfection. Or maybe you’re taking your crafting hobby of crocheting to new heights by setting up an online store. You have the business, but what about the brand? \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>When a new business bursts onto the scene, there’s the potential to get caught up in a few familiar branding snafus. But these branding mistakes are easily avoidable, and we want you to know how to dodge them as you develop your company’s public image. Here, we’ll explore common branding mistakes, why they’re missteps, and how you can avoid these branding blunders. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>When a new business bursts onto the scene, there’s the potential to get caught up in a few familiar branding snafus. But these branding mistakes are easily avoidable, and we want you to know how to dodge them as you develop your company’s public image. Here, we’ll explore common branding mistakes, why they’re missteps, and how you can avoid these branding blunders. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"label":"10 common branding mistakes new companies make - and how to avoid them","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-10-common-branding-mistakes-new-companies-make-and-how-to-avoid-them\">10 common branding mistakes new companies make — and how to avoid them\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-10-common-branding-mistakes-new-companies-make-and-how-to-avoid-them\">10 common branding mistakes new companies make — and how to avoid them\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Branding a business is all about differentiating yourself from your competitors. And with a lot of competition in many major markets, things like brand name mistakes or lack of attention to your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/visual-identity-basics/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visual identity\u003c/a> can hinder your brand’s future. With these 10 branding mistake examples, you’ll learn what to avoid as you build a successful, future-proof business.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Branding a business is all about differentiating yourself from your competitors. And with a lot of competition in many major markets, things like brand name mistakes or lack of attention to your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/visual-identity-basics/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visual identity\u003c/a> can hinder your brand’s future. With these 10 branding mistake examples, you’ll learn what to avoid as you build a successful, future-proof business.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"1. Forgetting the importance of branding","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-1-forgetting-the-importance-of-branding\">1. Forgetting the importance of branding\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-1-forgetting-the-importance-of-branding\">1. Forgetting the importance of branding\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Branding isn’t just about coming up with a name and putting a logo on a product. Branding is about navigating how your customers think and feel about your company, also known as \u003cem>public perception\u003c/em>. So when someone misses the importance of branding, it can hinder sales and visibility down the line.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Branding isn’t just about coming up with a name and putting a logo on a product. Branding is about navigating how your customers think and feel about your company, also known as \u003cem>public perception\u003c/em>. So when someone misses the importance of branding, it can hinder sales and visibility down the line.\u003c/li>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> This one is easily avoidable — simply do your research! Rome wasn’t built in a day. Your brand will take time, love, attention, and renovation. Luckily, there are fabulous, reliable resources on branding, like \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Namecheap blog posts\u003c/a>, that can answer your questions with a quick search.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> This one is easily avoidable — simply do your research! Rome wasn’t built in a day. Your brand will take time, love, attention, and renovation. Luckily, there are fabulous, reliable resources on branding, like \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Namecheap blog posts\u003c/a>, that can answer your questions with a quick search.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\n\n\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\n\n",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"2. Jumping in without defining your target audience","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-2-jumping-in-without-defining-your-target-audience\">2. Jumping in without defining your target audience\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-2-jumping-in-without-defining-your-target-audience\">2. Jumping in without defining your target audience\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> If you don’t take the time to understand who is most likely to buy or interact with your offerings, then your company might not \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/social-media-target-audience/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">resonate with the right people\u003c/a>. And you can pour time and energy into messaging and designs that miss the mark\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> If you don’t take the time to understand who is most likely to buy or interact with your offerings, then your company might not \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/social-media-target-audience/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">resonate with the right people\u003c/a>. And you can pour time and energy into messaging and designs that miss the mark\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/image","attrs":{"caption":"Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/@jonasjacobsson?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jonas Jacobsson\u003c/a> on \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unsplash\u003c/a>","id":7779,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","title":"01 - 10 common branding mistakes to avoid when starting a business","description":"","alt":"auditorium black chairs photo","sizes":[{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-320x216.png","width":320,"height":216},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-600x406.png","width":600,"height":406},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453}]},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"auditorium black chairs photo\" class=\"wp-image-7779\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/@jonasjacobsson?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jonas Jacobsson\u003c/a> on \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unsplash\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/01-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"auditorium black chairs photo\" class=\"wp-image-7779\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/@jonasjacobsson?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jonas Jacobsson\u003c/a> on \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unsplash\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Uncover market research to see the demographics and interests of existing consumers. Are men or women most likely to buy? How old are your customers? How much are they willing to spend? With a persona in mind, you can begin to create content and messaging that resonates with those people. Determine who isn’t likely to interact with your brand, and as you continue to grow, you can figure out new ways to reach a broader audience.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Uncover market research to see the demographics and interests of existing consumers. Are men or women most likely to buy? How old are your customers? How much are they willing to spend? With a persona in mind, you can begin to create content and messaging that resonates with those people. Determine who isn’t likely to interact with your brand, and as you continue to grow, you can figure out new ways to reach a broader audience.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"3. Only creating a logo","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-3-only-creating-a-logo\">3. Only creating a logo\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-3-only-creating-a-logo\">3. Only creating a logo\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> A \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-logo/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">logo is a key brand identifier\u003c/a>, but \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/how-to-make-a-logo/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">when making a logo\u003c/a>, it’s important not to assume that’s all the branding needed to achieve success. A brand goes way beyond a symbol. The visuals, content, colors, and more all work together in harmony to support your brand’s values. If you just have a logo attached to a name, then you’re lacking a complete \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/the-basics-of-brand-identity-and-why-it-matters/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brand identity\u003c/a>, which builds a connection between your company and customers. \u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> A \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-logo/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">logo is a key brand identifier\u003c/a>, but \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/how-to-make-a-logo/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">when making a logo\u003c/a>, it’s important not to assume that’s all the branding needed to achieve success. A brand goes way beyond a symbol. The visuals, content, colors, and more all work together in harmony to support your brand’s values. If you just have a logo attached to a name, then you’re lacking a complete \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/the-basics-of-brand-identity-and-why-it-matters/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brand identity\u003c/a>, which builds a connection between your company and customers. \u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"nc-blocks/domain-search","attrs":{"isCard":true,"action":"https://namecheap.com/logo-maker/app/new","searchInputName":"name","buttonLabel":"Create free logo","placeholder":"Your brand's name","searchInputTooltipText":"Please enter a logo name."},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-nc-blocks-domain-search\">\u003cform class=\"gb-search\" target=\"_blank\" action=\"https://namecheap.com/logo-maker/app/new\" method=\"GET\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-search__wrap\">\u003cinput type=\"hidden\" value=\"beast\"/>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip gb-tooltip--sm\" data-gb-tooltip-placement=\"bottom-start\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__toggle\">\u003cinput type=\"search\" name=\"domain\" class=\"gb-search__field\" placeholder=\"Your brand's name\"/>\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__wrap\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__arrow\">\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__content\">Please enter a logo name.\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003cspan class=\"gb-search__bg\">\u003c/span>\u003c/div>\u003cbutton type=\"submit\" class=\"gb-search__submit gb-btn gb-btn--primary\">Create free logo\u003c/button>\u003c/form>\u003c/div>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-nc-blocks-domain-search\">\u003cform class=\"gb-search\" target=\"_blank\" action=\"https://namecheap.com/logo-maker/app/new\" method=\"GET\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-search__wrap\">\u003cinput type=\"hidden\" value=\"beast\"/>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip gb-tooltip--sm\" data-gb-tooltip-placement=\"bottom-start\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__toggle\">\u003cinput type=\"search\" name=\"domain\" class=\"gb-search__field\" placeholder=\"Your brand's name\"/>\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__wrap\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__arrow\">\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__content\">Please enter a logo name.\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003cspan class=\"gb-search__bg\">\u003c/span>\u003c/div>\u003cbutton type=\"submit\" class=\"gb-search__submit gb-btn gb-btn--primary\">Create free logo\u003c/button>\u003c/form>\u003c/div>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> To avoid this branding blunder, familiarize yourself with the eight basics of brand identity development. Those elements are company name, mission statement, audience research, competitor research, brand strategy, brand personality, logo, and visual elements. Think about all of these elements as you build your company.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> To avoid this branding blunder, familiarize yourself with the eight basics of brand identity development. Those elements are company name, mission statement, audience research, competitor research, brand strategy, brand personality, logo, and visual elements. Think about all of these elements as you build your company.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"4. Lacking a style guide","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-4-lacking-a-style-guide\">4. Lacking a style guide\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-4-lacking-a-style-guide\">4. Lacking a style guide\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> A brand must be consistent, and the easiest way to achieve consistency is by taking the time to craft a style guide and keep it up to date. A \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/brand-style-guide/\">brand style guide\u003c/a> is a document that tells anyone within or working with your organization how to implement your logo, font types, images, messaging, and other components on different platforms. The lack of a style guide has the potential to result in disharmony and confusion as your brand grows.\u003cbr>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> A brand must be consistent, and the easiest way to achieve consistency is by taking the time to craft a style guide and keep it up to date. A \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/brand-style-guide/\">brand style guide\u003c/a> is a document that tells anyone within or working with your organization how to implement your logo, font types, images, messaging, and other components on different platforms. The lack of a style guide has the potential to result in disharmony and confusion as your brand grows.\u003cbr>\u003c/li>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Make a style guide! Even if you’re a one-person operation right now, the goal is to grow your business, and that means more people working with and for your company who may create content in your name. The perfect time to develop a style guide is now, so you can prevent steering off course in the future.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Make a style guide! Even if you’re a one-person operation right now, the goal is to grow your business, and that means more people working with and for your company who may create content in your name. The perfect time to develop a style guide is now, so you can prevent steering off course in the future.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\n\n\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\n\n",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"5. Color palette inconsistencies","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-5-color-palette-inconsistencies\">5. Color palette inconsistencies\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-5-color-palette-inconsistencies\">5. Color palette inconsistencies\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Consistency, consistency, consistency! Being inconsistent with your color scheme can affect your credibility and brand recognition in the long run. With branding, it’s all about that customer connection, and presenting a united front is key to that. So if you’re all over the place with something as straightforward as colors, then it could raise a red flag for consumers and decrease the likelihood of someone recognizing your brand. \u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Consistency, consistency, consistency! Being inconsistent with your color scheme can affect your credibility and brand recognition in the long run. With branding, it’s all about that customer connection, and presenting a united front is key to that. So if you’re all over the place with something as straightforward as colors, then it could raise a red flag for consumers and decrease the likelihood of someone recognizing your brand. \u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/image","attrs":{"caption":"Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/@pixabay/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay\u003c/a> from \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels\u003c/a>","id":7780,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","title":"02 - 10 common branding mistakes to avoid when starting a business","description":"","alt":"colorful papers photo","sizes":[{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-320x216.png","width":320,"height":216},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-600x406.png","width":600,"height":406},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453}]},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"colorful papers photo\" class=\"wp-image-7780\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/@pixabay/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay\u003c/a> from \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/02-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"colorful papers photo\" class=\"wp-image-7780\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/@pixabay/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay\u003c/a> from \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> A great way to avoid this mistake is by being very clear about your color palette. Communicate those standards concretely in a style guide. Just remember to choose a \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/brand-colors-guide/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">color palette that suits your brand identity\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> A great way to avoid this mistake is by being very clear about your color palette. Communicate those standards concretely in a style guide. Just remember to choose a \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/brand-colors-guide/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">color palette that suits your brand identity\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"6. Missing the right tone of voice","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-6-missing-the-right-tone-of-voice\">6. Missing the right tone of voice\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-6-missing-the-right-tone-of-voice\">6. Missing the right tone of voice\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> A lot of times, how we say something matters just as much as what we’re actually saying. Though visuals are incredibly important, so is your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-brand-voice/\">brand’s messaging\u003c/a>, and part of your image is an effective tone of voice. If you’re a brand that conveys messaging with authority and an air of assurance, a jokey social media post can break that hard-earned reputation.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> A lot of times, how we say something matters just as much as what we’re actually saying. Though visuals are incredibly important, so is your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-brand-voice/\">brand’s messaging\u003c/a>, and part of your image is an effective tone of voice. If you’re a brand that conveys messaging with authority and an air of assurance, a jokey social media post can break that hard-earned reputation.\u003c/li>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Consider common phrases to use in customer communications to help anyone stay on brand, no matter what the conversation entails. Show writers the dos and don’ts of content to best represent your business’s values. Plus, include all of this in your style guide under a section dedicated to brand voice so anyone can reference it later down the line.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Consider common phrases to use in customer communications to help anyone stay on brand, no matter what the conversation entails. Show writers the dos and don’ts of content to best represent your business’s values. Plus, include all of this in your style guide under a section dedicated to brand voice so anyone can reference it later down the line.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\n\n\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\n\n",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"7. Not polishing your visuals","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-7-not-polishing-your-visuals\">7. Not polishing your visuals\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-7-not-polishing-your-visuals\">7. Not polishing your visuals\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Just like your logo and the words you use, images are representations of your brand. Grainy images or hard-to-read graphics can dampen your credibility. Even though your customers may not be paying close attention to the details, these tiny impressions add up and can eventually contribute to visitors not equating your brand with quality or authority.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Just like your logo and the words you use, images are representations of your brand. Grainy images or hard-to-read graphics can dampen your credibility. Even though your customers may not be paying close attention to the details, these tiny impressions add up and can eventually contribute to visitors not equating your brand with quality or authority.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/image","attrs":{"caption":"Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/@heftiba/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Toa Heftiba Şinca\u003c/a> from \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels\u003c/a>","id":7781,"width":"670px","height":"453px","sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","title":"03 - 10 common branding mistakes to avoid when starting a business","description":"","alt":"wall with colorful graffiti","sizes":[{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-320x216.png","width":320,"height":216},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-600x406.png","width":600,"height":406},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453}]},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"wall with colorful graffiti\" class=\"wp-image-7781\" style=\"width:670px;height:453px\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/@heftiba/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Toa Heftiba Şinca\u003c/a> from \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/03-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"wall with colorful graffiti\" class=\"wp-image-7781\" style=\"width:670px;height:453px\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/@heftiba/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Toa Heftiba Şinca\u003c/a> from \u003ca href=\"https://www.pexels.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/visual-identity-basics/\">Invest in your visuals\u003c/a>. Take the time to create high-quality images and graphics that move your customers to like, share, and engage with your content. An easy way to accomplish this is using free graphic design tools that make graphic design easy for anyone. You can produce social media graphics, compelling ads, stunning blog headers, and much more.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/visual-identity-basics/\">Invest in your visuals\u003c/a>. Take the time to create high-quality images and graphics that move your customers to like, share, and engage with your content. An easy way to accomplish this is using free graphic design tools that make graphic design easy for anyone. You can produce social media graphics, compelling ads, stunning blog headers, and much more.\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"8. Not developing a brand \"personality\"","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-8-not-developing-a-brand-personality\">8. Not developing a brand \"personality\"\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-8-not-developing-a-brand-personality\">8. Not developing a brand \"personality\"\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Have you noticed when a fast-food chain tweets a funny quip or your favorite clothing brand makes a cheeky reference? That’s all part of a brand’s personality which helps them develop strong connections and brand loyalty with their customers. Not adding a dash of character to your brand can mean you sound robotic or stiff, making it difficult for customers to feel connected with your product or service.\u003cbr>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Have you noticed when a fast-food chain tweets a funny quip or your favorite clothing brand makes a cheeky reference? That’s all part of a brand’s personality which helps them develop strong connections and brand loyalty with their customers. Not adding a dash of character to your brand can mean you sound robotic or stiff, making it difficult for customers to feel connected with your product or service.\u003cbr>\u003c/li>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Steer clear of the bland brand blunder. When you have a good grasp of your brand’s identity, it becomes easier to play around with your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/the-basics-of-brand-identity-and-why-it-matters/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brand’s personality and identity\u003c/a>. A good way to think of your brand is like a person or a close friend. When you know your brand as well as you do, you can think about how it would react in various scenarios. This exercise is a fun way to think of your brand as a more human entity and add a dash of humor or wit in a manner that feels appropriate. \u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Steer clear of the bland brand blunder. When you have a good grasp of your brand’s identity, it becomes easier to play around with your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/the-basics-of-brand-identity-and-why-it-matters/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brand’s personality and identity\u003c/a>. A good way to think of your brand is like a person or a close friend. When you know your brand as well as you do, you can think about how it would react in various scenarios. This exercise is a fun way to think of your brand as a more human entity and add a dash of humor or wit in a manner that feels appropriate. \u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\n\n\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\n\n",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"9. A lack of consistency","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-9-a-lack-of-consistency\">9. A lack of consistency\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-9-a-lack-of-consistency\">9. A lack of consistency\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> All of your materials should be easily recognizable as belonging to your brand. Maybe an old logo slipped through the cracks on your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/blog/9-ways-to-create-the-perfect-about-page/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">website’s About page\u003c/a>, or the colors throughout your \u003ca href=\"https://truenorthsocial.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">professional Instagram account\u003c/a> aren’t quite right. If your website looks and reads one way and then your social media accounts have a completely different vibe, this can contribute to a disconnect that keeps potential customers from coming back.\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> All of your materials should be easily recognizable as belonging to your brand. Maybe an old logo slipped through the cracks on your \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/blog/9-ways-to-create-the-perfect-about-page/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">website’s About page\u003c/a>, or the colors throughout your \u003ca href=\"https://truenorthsocial.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">professional Instagram account\u003c/a> aren’t quite right. If your website looks and reads one way and then your social media accounts have a completely different vibe, this can contribute to a disconnect that keeps potential customers from coming back.\u003c/li>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Remember to regularly check in with all the ways you reach customers, including your website, social media, print marketing materials, and even listings on other websites. Check to make sure everything, from the phone number used to the colors selected, is up to date and part of one cohesive unit. These quality control checks are a fantastic way to ensure the holy grail of branding: consistency. \u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Remember to regularly check in with all the ways you reach customers, including your website, social media, print marketing materials, and even listings on other websites. Check to make sure everything, from the phone number used to the colors selected, is up to date and part of one cohesive unit. These quality control checks are a fantastic way to ensure the holy grail of branding: consistency. \u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\n\n\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\n\n",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"level":3,"label":"10. You don’t maintain your brand","parent":"e25b6c54-8ba9-4ce7-bbd7-cd4d437c6902","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-10-you-dont-maintain-your-brand\">10. You don’t maintain your brand\u003c/h3>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"n-10-you-dont-maintain-your-brand\">10. You don’t maintain your brand\u003c/h3>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Let’s say your brand is consistent across all platforms and channels. That’s awesome, but a brand is a living, breathing entity that should evolve as your business grows. Don’t make the mistake of stagnation. If you don’t keep it fresh and interesting, then customers might lose interest in your offerings. Yet, it is also not a good idea to constantly change your brand since it results in confusion and a lack of consistency. \u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Why is it a mistake?\u003c/strong> Let’s say your brand is consistent across all platforms and channels. That’s awesome, but a brand is a living, breathing entity that should evolve as your business grows. Don’t make the mistake of stagnation. If you don’t keep it fresh and interesting, then customers might lose interest in your offerings. Yet, it is also not a good idea to constantly change your brand since it results in confusion and a lack of consistency. \u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/image","attrs":{"caption":"Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/@renatotrentin?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Renato Trentin\u003c/a> on \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unsplash\u003c/a>","id":7782,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","title":"04 - 10 common branding mistakes to avoid when starting a business","description":"","alt":"coca cola brand bottles","sizes":[{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-320x216.png","width":320,"height":216},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business-600x406.png","width":600,"height":406},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png","width":670,"height":453}]},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"coca cola brand bottles\" class=\"wp-image-7782\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/@renatotrentin?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Renato Trentin\u003c/a> on \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unsplash\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/04-10-common-branding-mistakes-to-avoid-when-starting-a-business.png\" alt=\"coca cola brand bottles\" class=\"wp-image-7782\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo by \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/@renatotrentin?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Renato Trentin\u003c/a> on \u003ca href=\"https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unsplash\u003c/a>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":{"className":"gb-list"},"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Take some time — perhaps every quarter, or twice a year — to review your brand identity and confirm that it’s still truly representative of your growing company. Keep an eye out for how the market’s changing and what your customers are looking for in a brand. Create meaningful changes, and when you make bigger adjustments, make announcements. It’s important to keep customers in the loop so they understand the thought process behind the shift. Consumers value transparency and a brand that takes the time to listen and grow. \u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>How to avoid it:\u003c/strong> Take some time — perhaps every quarter, or twice a year — to review your brand identity and confirm that it’s still truly representative of your growing company. Keep an eye out for how the market’s changing and what your customers are looking for in a brand. Create meaningful changes, and when you make bigger adjustments, make announcements. It’s important to keep customers in the loop so they understand the thought process behind the shift. Consumers value transparency and a brand that takes the time to listen and grow. \u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul class=\"gb-list\">",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"label":"Branding is a breeze when you’re blunder-free ","checked":true,"isBlocked":false},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"branding-is-a-breeze-when-youre-blunder-free\">Branding is a breeze when you’re blunder-free \u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"branding-is-a-breeze-when-youre-blunder-free\">Branding is a breeze when you’re blunder-free \u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Now you know the common branding mistakes that businesses tend to make when getting started, but you also know to avoid these pitfalls. With this knowledge, you can build your brand successfully. You’ll attract the right people, build connections, and establish your company as credible and reliable. When you’ve taken the time to recognize the value of branding, there’s no stopping you from accomplishing all of your wildest dreams. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Now you know the common branding mistakes that businesses tend to make when getting started, but you also know to avoid these pitfalls. With this knowledge, you can build your brand successfully. You’ll attract the right people, build connections, and establish your company as credible and reliable. When you’ve taken the time to recognize the value of branding, there’s no stopping you from accomplishing all of your wildest dreams. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>And with Namecheap’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/visual/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Visual\u003c/a> suite of tools, you can work with simple and affordable resources to bring your brand to life. Set up your professional website in minutes while using \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/logo-maker/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Logo Maker\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/visual/card-maker/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Card Maker\u003c/a> to beautify your brand with the best. Take the complexity out of creating a logo with Logo Maker. Quickly select your preferred styles, and the software will generate logos based on what you like. And the best part? It’s completely free. Then, for a stunning business card, import your logo straight from Logo Maker to Card Maker, fully customize the layout to meet your needs, and create print-ready PDFs or get them delivered right to your doorstep. It’s that easy! \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>And with Namecheap’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/visual/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Visual\u003c/a> suite of tools, you can work with simple and affordable resources to bring your brand to life. Set up your professional website in minutes while using \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/logo-maker/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Logo Maker\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/visual/card-maker/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Card Maker\u003c/a> to beautify your brand with the best. Take the complexity out of creating a logo with Logo Maker. Quickly select your preferred styles, and the software will generate logos based on what you like. And the best part? It’s completely free. Then, for a stunning business card, import your logo straight from Logo Maker to Card Maker, fully customize the layout to meet your needs, and create print-ready PDFs or get them delivered right to your doorstep. It’s that easy! \u003c/p>\n"]}],"stickyMenu":[{"label":"10 common branding mistakes new companies make - and how to avoid them","labelEdited":"10 common branding mistakes new companies make - and how to avoid them","level":2,"anchor":"n-10-common-branding-mistakes-new-companies-make-and-how-to-avoid-them","children":[{"label":"1. Forgetting the importance of branding","labelEdited":"1. Forgetting the importance of branding","level":3,"anchor":"n-1-forgetting-the-importance-of-branding"},{"label":"2. Jumping in without defining your target audience","labelEdited":"2. Jumping in without defining your target audience","level":3,"anchor":"n-2-jumping-in-without-defining-your-target-audience"},{"label":"3. Only creating a logo","labelEdited":"3. Only creating a logo","level":3,"anchor":"n-3-only-creating-a-logo"},{"label":"4. Lacking a style guide","labelEdited":"4. Lacking a style guide","level":3,"anchor":"n-4-lacking-a-style-guide"},{"label":"5. Color palette inconsistencies","labelEdited":"5. Color palette inconsistencies","level":3,"anchor":"n-5-color-palette-inconsistencies"},{"label":"6. Missing the right tone of voice","labelEdited":"6. Missing the right tone of voice","level":3,"anchor":"n-6-missing-the-right-tone-of-voice"},{"label":"7. Not polishing your visuals","labelEdited":"7. Not polishing your visuals","level":3,"anchor":"n-7-not-polishing-your-visuals"},{"label":"8. Not developing a brand \"personality\"","labelEdited":"8. Not developing a brand \"personality\"","level":3,"anchor":"n-8-not-developing-a-brand-personality"},{"label":"9. A lack of consistency","labelEdited":"9. A lack of consistency","level":3,"anchor":"n-9-a-lack-of-consistency"},{"label":"10. You don’t maintain your brand","labelEdited":"10. You don’t maintain your brand","level":3,"anchor":"n-10-you-dont-maintain-your-brand"}]},{"label":"Branding is a breeze when you’re blunder-free ","labelEdited":"Branding is a breeze when you’re blunder-free ","level":2,"anchor":"branding-is-a-breeze-when-youre-blunder-free"}]},"status":200,"statusText":"OK"}}Congratulations on starting your new business! You’ve decided to take your idea out of the talking stage and into the real world. You’re eager to dazzle the internet with vegan recipes on your food blog dedicated to plant-based perfection. Or maybe you’re taking your crafting hobby of crocheting to new heights by setting up an online store. You have the business, but what about the brand?
When a new business bursts onto the scene, there’s the potential to get caught up in a few familiar branding snafus. But these branding mistakes are easily avoidable, and we want you to know how to dodge them as you develop your company’s public image. Here, we’ll explore common branding mistakes, why they’re missteps, and how you can avoid these branding blunders.
Branding a business is all about differentiating yourself from your competitors. And with a lot of competition in many major markets, things like brand name mistakes or lack of attention to your visual identity can hinder your brand’s future. With these 10 branding mistake examples, you’ll learn what to avoid as you build a successful, future-proof business.
Now you know the common branding mistakes that businesses tend to make when getting started, but you also know to avoid these pitfalls. With this knowledge, you can build your brand successfully. You’ll attract the right people, build connections, and establish your company as credible and reliable. When you’ve taken the time to recognize the value of branding, there’s no stopping you from accomplishing all of your wildest dreams.
And with Namecheap’s Visual suite of tools, you can work with simple and affordable resources to bring your brand to life. Set up your professional website in minutes while using Logo Maker and Card Maker to beautify your brand with the best. Take the complexity out of creating a logo with Logo Maker. Quickly select your preferred styles, and the software will generate logos based on what you like. And the best part? It’s completely free. Then, for a stunning business card, import your logo straight from Logo Maker to Card Maker, fully customize the layout to meet your needs, and create print-ready PDFs or get them delivered right to your doorstep. It’s that easy!
Branding issues are problems that weaken a company’s branding, such as inconsistent visuals, a lack of market research, or confusing messaging. When developing a brand, it’s important to be aware of these potential downfalls in order to avoid investing in an ineffective branding strategy.
Poor branding is a branding strategy that does not perform well for the company. In some cases, poor branding results from a lack of planning before launching a brand. In others, a company may put a lot of thought into their branding efforts but ultimately find that it does not align with their target audience’s wants and needs.
An example of bad branding is an inconsistent visual identity. When logos, color palettes, fonts, and other visual elements vary too much, it creates a disjointed public image for the brand that fails to become familiar or recognizable.
Branding can be ineffective due to issues like inauthentic messaging, inconsistent visual elements, and a lack of differentiation from other brands. Problems like these make it harder for a company to connect with the target audience.
A style guide is essential for ensuring consistency across all of your branding efforts. The style guide should include specific details for your brand’s visual elements, such as logos, color palettes, and fonts. It should also describe the brand personality and voice to maintain a consistent tone in your messaging.
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From voice to visuals, here’s how to create branding that everyone will recognize.
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