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It’s Still the Economy, Stupid

Let’s face it, the economy isn’t turning around as quickly as we would like. But inaction will only make things worse for your business. The smart business owner understands that surviving is not simply about maintaining his or her clientele but expanding it as well. Finding inventive and affordable ways to promote your business, product or project is essential to surviving a roller-coaster economy, and Branding Ideas is committed to exploring new ways to do that. Falling back on some good, old-fashioned, reliable branding ideas, however, is a great place to start. Here are three oldies but goodies:

1. Custom Magnets. Magnets pack a big bang for your buck because they’re useful, long-lasting, and most importantly, effective. Your logo, essential contact information and slogan all fit nicely on these mini billboards, and since they’re small and light-weight, they’re easy to ship – just throw one into a package you’re already planning on sending.

2. Candy. Everyone loves to eat, and even though these little suckers vanish from sight quickly, they remain in the brain for a long time, assuring that when your client or customer has a craving for more, they’ll think of you and your business.

3. Collaboration. Find a business or client whose interests are aligned with yours and cut costs in half by teaming together to promote your businesses or projects, or agree to promote theirs to your client base while they promote yours to theirs.

Need some ideas? Have some of your own? Let us know!

What’s in a Logo?

The Obama administration recently unveiled a new logo for its massive economic recovery bill. Yes, a logo for a government bill. It seems that the folks who so shrewdly branded the new president during his run for office last year is using the same approach to help communicate his agenda. The logo is simple, comprised of three segments that represent energy, manufacturing and country, and will be used to help Americans identify economic projects that have been “stimulated” by the legislation. What the administration understands is that people respond to things that are easily identified and understood. After a rocky first few weeks of the Obama presidency, the new logo accomplishes both.

One defining trait of both Obama’s campaign logo and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act logo is that they both utilize simple, primary colors (sans any gradient effects) and soft, rounded edges. It’s a recent trend in graphic design that can also be found in the refurbished logos for Pepsi and Walmart. Pepsi’s logo has been the topic of much conversation and debate; it takes the cola company’s classic, well-known logo and gives it a new twist, similar in style and presentation to Obama’s logos. Last month, Gawker leaked a 27-page document detailing the concept behind the Pepsi logo: magnetic dynamics, the theory of relativity, the renaissance, ancient Chinese art, the human body. Clearly over-thought and over-sold. Is any of that actually communicated to consumers by the new ad?

Walmart’s logo is slightly more effective. Transitioning from big, blocky capital letters hyphenated with a star to a more elegant font and a yellow starburst that evokes an organic, eco-friendly message, the popular chain store has successfully softened its image. Yes, it risks looking like an energy company, but Walmart has become a household name and its new slogan, “Save Money. Live Better.,” communicates both the company’s reputation for saving its customers money while at the same time improving their lives—and, having made efforts to reduce fuel consumption and offer eco-friendly products, maybe the planet too!

Branding on a Budget: Tip #5

Tip #5: Give the Gift of Giving

During hard times, charities and nonprofit organizations like the Red Cross suffer most. Why not give a gift in someone else’s name, or allow them to choose one for themselves? Sites like justgive.org make it easy to let you give the gift of giving. And charitable donations often provide tax deductions — help others and save at the same time!

Branding on a Budget: Tip #4

Tip #4: Choose Products That Make Sense

Don’t waste resources on products that don’t accurately and completely capture the tone and style of your brand. We’ll work with you to come up with creative promotional ideas that last, make an impact, and are tailored to the key message of your brand or a specific campaign.

Branding on a Budget: Tip #3

Tip #3: Be Aware of Perceived Value

Tough economic times often mean businesses have to make difficult decisions. Make your clients and associates feel appreciated but avoid appearing extravagant or frivolous. Be generous and sensitive at the same time by choosing products that are useful and reflect your company’s values. Need some ideas? We’re here to help!

Branding on a Budget: Tip #2

Tip #2: Add a Personal Touch

The holiday season is right around the corner, so consider delivering gifts in person whenever possible. Not only will you save on postage but you’ll personalize your service, brand or company in the process!

Branding on a Budget: Tip #1

It’s that time of the year and with the economy on the downturn, Branding Ideas has decided to compile a list of tips for being creative and economical this holiday season. Each week we’ll unveil a new tip so check back regularly!

Tip #1: Brand Smart, Not Cheap

Just because your resources are limited, that doesn’t mean you can’t be smart when gift-giving this holiday season. Extend your brand by making a long-term investment – a 12-month promotional calendar with your brand on it will keep you on your clients and colleagues’ radars a lot longer than a fruitcake.