A brand's not just a logo or a catchy slogan.

It's the soul of your business.

When others think of you & your products: what are the experiences, emotions, and perceptions they associate with your company?

And here's the tricky thing: you HAVE a brand.

But does anyone else know about it?

Is it any good?

Do it right, and your brand creates trust, loyalty, and differentiation in a crowded marketplace.

🍎 An obviously strong brand (currently) is Apple.

From iPhones to MacBooks, Apple works hard to convey innovation, simplicity, and elegance.

Boy do they have some loyal fans.

You could argue that this "reality distortion field" forgives many 🍎 sins.

Early, pricy iPhones dropped calls.

Mac hardware is sleek & sexy, but is the OS REALLY innovative? (OK I'm biased)

And does anyone you know still use Apple Maps?

(Just...why?)

🏃‍♀️Another one is Nike.

People the world over recognize the swoosh

The brand represents more than just shoes.

It's more Jordan and "Just Do It" and (to some of us) Pre.

Determination, empowerment.

🩱A third epic brand? Spanx

Sara Blakely cut the feet off her pantyhose.

Used $5k of her own savings

Withstood MANY nos before one mill said "yes."

(Owner's 2 daughters convinced him.)

Kept her day job until big accounts w/ Neiman Marcus & Saks.

Sold Spanx herself on shop floors

🏎️ One more is Porsche.

The 911 is the best sports car in the world (🥊💥💪)

They're made for the track, though.

Not convinced their SUV-mini vans (Cayenne) are really there.

And good luck with the cupholders.

Having "that sort" of a brand is obviously a good thing.

But how do you build one?

Find your why. Why are you doing this? What keeps you going when times are tough?

Put in the work. Day in, day out.

Be you. Don't pretend to be what you're not.

Adapt.

Good luck!