Owning a business is one thing, owning a recognizable brand is another. And, I think it’s safe to say most small business owners want to build their company into a recognizable brand. Here’s how:

1. Understand building a brand takes time. As they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day. “Building a brand is a multipart process that starts with getting clear on your mission and target audience and creating images and words that reflect that.”

2. Get to know your customer base. Spend time researching and speaking with your target market – figure out their needs and then fine tune your product/service so it answers those needs. Focus groups are a great way to accomplish this.

3. Embrace simplicity. Determine how to communicate your brand in the simplest, most effective way possible. Don’t try and cram a ton of information in your ads or social media profiles. Single out your main message and stick to it.

4. Flexibility is key. This tip stems from number two. Keep an open mind – you might have a great idea but you want to be sure it corresponds with your customers’ wants. Tweaks and changes are inevitable, so don’t be a stick in the mud.

For the article that inspired our post, head over the Money Magazine. Happy branding!

Also, remember, if you need some extra funding to really bring your small business to the next level, consider a small business loan. Every small business owner faces working capital issues at some point and Silver Rock Funding would love to help!