Posted on: July 23, 2013
Posted by: Simon Morrison
Categories:
Creative & Design
When you’re launching a small company, having a well-designed logo is one of the most effective methods of branding your business. While many established, big-box companies have logos that are quite simple, you need something that stands out above the rest and says “this is me, this is what I’m all about”. Your logo is a unique representation of your company and, many times, the first thing a potential customer sees.
In the preliminary phase, sit down and pick your brain, and the brains of your partner or employees (no, this isn’t a post apocalyptic zombie world). What, exactly, are you selling to potential clients and customers? Think about what makes your company and brand really “tick.” Consider your target audience and your ideal buyer persona; you want your logo to appeal to them.
Next, research the market. Check out other company’s logos and what they have to offer clients. Investigate their marketing tactics and how they’re targeting their customers. Find out what’s working for your competitors and, if they’re larger businesses, how and why their brand has staying power. The most awesome logos are the ones that have longevity and can stand the test of time.
Don’t be afraid to educate and inspire yourself as well. If you see an effect on a logo that you really like, save the image or write it down. Browse online for examples of different logos to see what other small and large business owners have done. The examples don’t have to be brand specific to give you that brilliant idea that suits your company perfectly.
From there, use the research you’ve already done to devise several logo concepts. At this point, creativity and exploration are key. Don’t be afraid to let loose; for each concept you come up with, record a rationale that explains why you like certain elements and to help you remember why you chose certain things. If you don’t think you’ll remember that your partner or employees preferred that shade of blue, write it down! Also, take breaks; a 15 minute cat nap or walk around the block does wonders to refresh the mind.
There are a few good rules of thumb to follow that, combined with your own unique influence, are sure to get your logo noticed. As mentioned above, you’ve probably noticed that most large companies have very simple logos. Don’t use more than one or two colours, and the font must be easy to read. If you decide to include an icon alongside your business name, forego a complex illustration in favour of something basic but memorable. Lastly, be consistent – choose a logo that will be relevant and require little modification in the future.
Your logo represents your company’s identity. It communicates who you are to potential customers and sets the visual tone going forward, including your website, business cards and advertisements. A logo that will be remembered and well received throughout the lifetime of your company is key to success, and is the first steps you should take as a small business owner. Hiring a design agency is a great way to achieve this, as professional designers possess the expertise needed to launch your brand identity in today’s crowded market. Read more about design and branding here.
Image Credit: Capslock
When you’re launching a small company, having a well-designed logo is one of the most effective methods of branding your business. While many established, big-box companies have logos that are quite simple, you need something that stands out above the rest and says “this is me, this is what I’m all about”. Your logo is a unique representation of your company and, many times, the first thing a potential customer sees.
In the preliminary phase, sit down and pick your brain, and the brains of your partner or employees (no, this isn’t a post apocalyptic zombie world). What, exactly, are you selling to potential clients and customers? Think about what makes your company and brand really “tick.” Consider your target audience and your ideal buyer persona; you want your logo to appeal to them.
Next, research the market. Check out other company’s logos and what they have to offer clients. Investigate their marketing tactics and how they’re targeting their customers. Find out what’s working for your competitors and, if they’re larger businesses, how and why their brand has staying power. The most awesome logos are the ones that have longevity and can stand the test of time.
Don’t be afraid to educate and inspire yourself as well. If you see an effect on a logo that you really like, save the image or write it down. Browse online for examples of different logos to see what other small and large business owners have done. The examples don’t have to be brand specific to give you that brilliant idea that suits your company perfectly.
From there, use the research you’ve already done to devise several logo concepts. At this point, creativity and exploration are key. Don’t be afraid to let loose; for each concept you come up with, record a rationale that explains why you like certain elements and to help you remember why you chose certain things. If you don’t think you’ll remember that your partner or employees preferred that shade of blue, write it down! Also, take breaks; a 15 minute cat nap or walk around the block does wonders to refresh the mind.
There are a few good rules of thumb to follow that, combined with your own unique influence, are sure to get your logo noticed. As mentioned above, you’ve probably noticed that most large companies have very simple logos. Don’t use more than one or two colours, and the font must be easy to read. If you decide to include an icon alongside your business name, forego a complex illustration in favour of something basic but memorable. Lastly, be consistent – choose a logo that will be relevant and require little modification in the future.
Your logo represents your company’s identity. It communicates who you are to potential customers and sets the visual tone going forward, including your website, business cards and advertisements. A logo that will be remembered and well received throughout the lifetime of your company is key to success, and is the first steps you should take as a small business owner. Hiring a design agency is a great way to achieve this, as professional designers possess the expertise needed to launch your brand identity in today’s crowded market. Read more about design and branding here.
Image Credit: Capslock
