The Real Problem with Branding—And How to Fix It
On being stuck in first gear...
Listen up: Your biggest branding problem isn’t a lack of taglines or logos; it’s the disconnect between what you think your brand is and how the world actually sees it.
Sound familiar? That’s because most people and organizations are so close to their work that they can’t see the forest for the trees.
They’re stuck in the “we’ve always done it this way” without realizing that the world—your audience—has moved on.
With a nod to some shameless self-promtion, that’s where I come in.
At The Brand Dame, I help you cut through the noise and zero in on what really matters: crafting a brand that resonates deeply with your audience because it authentically represents who you are and what you stand for.
Forget the fluff, the corporate speak, the overly-polished image that doesn’t reflect the heart of your mission. I’m here to help you tell your story in a real, relevant, and compelling way.
You don’t need more surface-level fixes; you need a brand that tells a story—your story—with authenticity and impact.
That’s what I do. Whether you’re an individual trying to establish yourself in a crowded market or an organization looking to boost visibility and engagement, I work with you to develop a thoughtful and actionable strategic branding approach.
So, what’s the real problem with branding? It’s not about adding layers; it’s about peeling them back until we find the core of what makes you, you.
Once we do that, the rest—visibility, engagement, recognition—falls into place. It’s about building a brand that not only stands out but stands for something meaningful.
Because at the end of the day, your brand should be your biggest asset, not just another item on your to-do list.
Who I Help—and Why
Here’s a look at who benefits most from my approach, ranked by need and potential impact:
Mid-Career Women in Transition: You’re ready for more responsibility or a career pivot, and you need a brand that truly reflects your experience and potential.
Nonprofits: As a nonprofit leader, you may find yourself so focused on your cause that your brand gets neglected. I help you develop a brand that amplifies your voice and mission.
Small to Medium-Sized Mission-Driven Organizations: If you’re part of a mission-driven organization, you might struggle with visibility. I collaborate with you to enhance your brand, boosting community engagement and impact.
Women Entrepreneurs and Business Owners: Differentiating yourself in a saturated market is tough. I work with you to build a brand that stands out and drives your business growth.
Consultants and Coaches: Your personal brand is your business. I help you craft a compelling narrative that attracts the right clients and builds your credibility.
Corporate Professionals Seeking Leadership Roles: As you climb the corporate ladder, I help you craft a brand highlighting your leadership qualities and professional achievements.
Putting in the effort without seeing the payoff can feel like you're spinning your wheels, and it’s frustrating. If you’re pouring time and energy into your brand but getting minimal results, you’ve gotta rethink your approach.
It’s not about working harder; it’s about working smarter—making sure every move you make is part of a well-oiled brand machine. Let’s get you into a place where your brand actually starts working for you, not the other way around.
Here’s a quick checklist to being strategic, not just busy:
Audit Your Online Presence: Take a close look at your website, social media profiles, and any other online platforms. Are they consistent, up-to-date, and truly reflective of your brand?
Clarify Your Message: Simplify your brand message. Can you describe what you do and why it matters in one sentence? If not, refine it until you can.
Engage with Your Audience: Start meaningful conversations on social media or through your newsletter. Ask questions, respond to comments, and show up regularly.
Refresh Your Visuals: Review your logo, color scheme, and overall design. Do they still align with your brand’s direction? Consider subtle tweaks or updates to keep things fresh.
Focus on One or Two Social Platforms: Don’t spread yourself thin across every social media platform. Pick the one or two where your audience is most active, and concentrate your efforts there.
Update Your Bio: Whether it’s on LinkedIn, your website, or Instagram, make sure your bio is clear, concise, and reflective of your current brand identity.
Review Your Content Strategy: Is your content still relevant to your audience? Consider what’s been working and what hasn’t, and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Network with Purpose: Reach out to key influencers or peers in your industry. Build genuine connections that can help elevate your brand.
These steps are meant to give your brand a solid nudge in the right direction, without feeling like you’re taking on too much. Yes, it seems overwhelming.
Because brands are not optional, right?
The Brand Dame is a weekly newsletter by an award-winning media pro about buzz-generating, audience-engaging, money-raising, job-getting, stand-and-deliver, wall-sticking, branding-building ideas and strategies you won’t find anywhere else.