Let’s grab a Starbucks! Pass me a Kleenex? Let’s watch some Netflix. Top-of-mind awareness - it’s the first brand that comes to mind when you think of think of a specific product or service. Businesses work hard to achieve the status of top-of-mind in their industries and communities. Here are a few tactics to help you achieve top-of-mind.
1. Stand Out!
Find ways to stand out in places people do, or don’t, expect to see you - those license plate frames on the vehicle in front of you advertising a dealership, the billboard you pass on your way to work, the door hanger on your front porch, the business sponsorship on the radio of the 5 o’clock news. These are all great examples of being visible in day-to-day life, and they all stand out. Find creative ways to stand out too!
2. Connect Emotionally
Instead of just telling your audience “I produce, or we provide…,” connect with them personally by telling them WHY you do what you do. People want to be inspired, and feel connected with the people within the brand or business. When a brand’s message resonates, it is easily remembered.
3. Be Consistent
Create a dependable and consistent communication and content schedule, such as monthly newsletters, offers, contests and freebies. Consistency builds trust. Inconsistency breaks that trust.
4. Use a Slogan
A short, memorable slogan reminds your audience and customers why your business is a go-to choice! Once you create a great tag or slogan, use it everywhere - website, social media, emails, business cards, stationery, etc.
5. Sponsor Events
Being involved in the community is a FUN and easy way to promote your business. Not only do you get to help build a great local atmosphere, you will meet contacts, community members, other local businesses and have the chance to help out with a great event. We’ve never had as much fun as when we’ve sponsored golf tournaments, bonspiels, or sports teams… and we’re looking forward to an upcoming food festival! What can you sponsor?
Final Thoughts
These are just a few simple steps you can take to start building your brands awareness - reach out to them — and don’t make it too hard to reach back out to you. Don’t make your audience work too hard. You should be the one doing all the work, and offering supreme client care and customer service to remain top of mind.