Social Media has revolutionized business all over the world. Nowadays, the success and failure of a business depend on its social media campaigns. Indeed, very often it is a typical feeling to feel lost in a spacious socal platform. I am sure that there has been a time when your brand was doing cha-cha, while the world is doing tango.
And I know what it takes to be a small business that pours out everything and yet loses it all to the large giants. We have created a guide on how to increase local brand awareness using proven strategies of industry experts in order to put an end to this feeling of FOMO.
Your Brand Wants to Shine as Well.
14 ways that can be used to your advantage that will enable you to rise above your competitors in terms of online presence. 2024 can be the year in which you can show up shining if you read this article and it is my word to you that you’ll certainly never regret reading it.
Let’s delve into Social Media Marketing 101 basics
What is Brand Awareness?
First of all, Brand Awareness is needed to run a successful campaign. See it as the pulse which sustains your business. Informing the public about your product or service means educating them and helping them understand that they are looking for the solution you offer.
Brand awareness is not just about a logo and some catchy visuals, but rather an opportunity for engaging with your prospect on a personal level. Chances for success are higher among businesses that establish relationships with their customers.
Brand Identity Vs Brand Awareness:
Brand Identity
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The way a brand is visually and conceptually presented, which includes its logo, design and overall personality.
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The main focus revolves around how a brand aims to shape its perception among its audience and the values it intends to convey.
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Logo, colors, typography, messaging, mission statement, brand values, and overall design elements.
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Establishes a brand's unique identity, differentiation from competitors, and the emotional connection it aims to create with its audience.
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Influences marketing strategies and communication to maintain a cohesive and distinctive brand image.
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Apple's sleek and minimalist design, Nike's "Just Do It" slogan, and Coca-Cola's iconic red color and dynamic ribbon logo.
Brand Awareness
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The way people remember and acknowledge a brand visually in the marketplace.
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The main focus is how the brand is externally recognized and remembered by its target audience and the broader market.
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Recognition, recall, and association with the brand in the minds of the target audience.
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Ensures that the brand is familiar and easily identifiable among its target audience, increasing the likelihood of customer preference.
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Enhanced through marketing efforts that increase exposure, promote recall, and create positive associations with the brand.
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McDonald's golden arches, Starbucks' green logo, and Geico's quirky advertising campaigns that contribute to widespread recognition.
Importance of Brand Awareness:
As we discussed already, brand awareness is important for the success of your business. Imagine an actor whose name is not known to anyone. He is not popular and doesn’t have followers. Suppose that actor was given a film project. The film will likely not perform well and it is going to be a flop. It’s as if you’re making a movie for an empty theater. Prevent this situation in your business by building hype around your product or service and the only way to do that is through brand awareness.
14 Ways to Enhance Brand Awareness
Leverage Social Media:
Social media is not just about cat videos and memes, it’s a treasure trove of brand exposure. With millions of users, platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter provide a short-cut line to your audience. Share captivating content, relate to your community and witness your brand recognition booming.
Create Consistent Content:
Consider what would happen if Coca-Cola switched their red logo each week. Confusing, right? Your brand’s North Star is consistency in the content, whether it is visuals, tone, or messaging. It makes you an instant icon – and brands your identity onto the minds of consumers.
Collaborate with Influencers:
With influencers in their age, using the right ones can boost your brand’s voice. These social media stars already have the fans’ trust, and a shoutout from them can make your brand acquire a new audience.
Host Contests and Giveaways:
Who doesn't love free stuff? Hosting contests and giveaways not only get the audience excited but also prompt social sharing. It’s like free tickets to a sold-out show – your brand gets seen, and the audience gets a shot at it.
Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC):
Transform your clients into brand advocates. Encourage them to tell others about your product or service. UGC is a strong tool – it’s kind of having a small army of marketers all telling people about what you sell almost for free.
Optimize Your Website for SEO:
Your website is your online storefront. Optimize your website for search engines, so that if someone searches for a product or service you offer, they find you. It is like moving from an alley to a main street – more visibility, more traffic.
Explore Local Partnerships:
Partner with local businesses or events. It’s like forming a partnership with an adjacent household for a block party – you all have something to give and it benefits everyone.
Invest in Paid Advertising:
Although organic methods are great, paid advertising can provide a slightly greater boost to your brand. It’s similar to graduating from riding a bicycle to that of a turbocharged engine – faster outcomes and greater coverage.
Utilize Email Marketing:
Never underestimate the power of a properly created email. It’s like inviting your brand to a personalized party. Engage, inform and make your audience eager to be part of the brand journey.
Host Virtual Events:
In the era of digits, events are not restricted to real-world arenas. Organize webinars, virtual product launch events, or interactive sessions. It’s like having a party on the internet – your brand will be the talk of cyberspace.
Create Shareable Infographics:
Infographics are our information’s superheroes. They are visually engaging, easy to interpret and highly shareable. It is similar to converting your brand message into a comic strip- laughable and memorable.
Optimize for Local SEO:
If you thrive on local customers, ensure your online presence mirrors that. Local SEO is a sign that says “We are here and we will serve you” – putting up a giant neon sign for customers in the neighborhood to easily find you.
Tell Compelling Stories:
People love stories. Share your story of how your brand grew, its values and moments behind the scenes. It’s like inviting your audience into your living room – establishing a relationship that transcends the transaction.
Monitor and Adapt:
The world of digital is changing continuously. Monitor what’s working and what needs to change. This is like trailblazing a ship amid shifting tides – tenacity is the key to a lasting achievement.