What is a Brand Story?
Hell of a good question and I thank you for asking it. Simply put, it’s the Story behind your Brand (see what I did there?). Don’t worry, I do plan on tackling this big issue, but before we do, let’s look at your business.
In fact…let’s look at businesses in general
Things are evolving fast these days. It’s hard to keep up. One Old School Guru harps on about service x, and another about theory Y, and a third about model ABC. Who should you listen to? Who has the right answer?
That is an easy one. You do! You have the right answer, after all, who knows your Business better than…well…you?
What Is A Brand Story?
Hold your horses. Let’s first look at your Business.
You started with great intentions. You had this fantastic idea, considered your market, and went to the trenches. Along the way you created a marketing strategy and business plan and a whole host of booklets and documents. You will never need to buy a door stop ever again.
What does this all mean, though? How much of this helps your every day life? Sure we need them, sometimes, but like most things, I believe everything is evolving into something new. In this crowded world we live in, it’s vital to have a Brand that stands out.
And no, I don’t mean a kick ass logo.
Seriously, What Is A Brand Story
Ok Ok, you win. This is what a Brand Story means to me:
It unearths what you’re all about. It considers your Vision & Core Values and places your entire structure around it. It helps you discover what the true meaning of your Brand is. Once you know this you can add it to everything. Each Product, Service, Message…they can all be part of this overlying story. It becomes your entire world!
You may have heard the term Business Bible. Well, your Brand Story is basically this. Each time you show doubt, create something new, or talk to a newbie; you simply reference your Brand Story.
It’s al the good things YOU have to offer in one handy place.
Are you on Google+? I am, and I’m spending July trying to connect with new people. If you follow me in July you’ll be entered into a Free Prize Draw where one winner will receive a $20 Starbucks Voucher & 1-Hour Consultancy Chat with ME!
I love coffee (actually, addicted) and want to share some Starbucks love with you all. It’s not about the Prize, though, it’s about the plans I have for Google+. This is a platform I’ll use for special Google+ Hangouts, Exclusive Content & Intriguing Polls. Don’t you want to be involved?
All you have to do is follow me…
Your Brand Story Can Rock your World
I honestly believe this. It’s tough to stand out these days, but a Brand Story can help. What is a Brand Story? Hell, it’s anything you want it to be.
When I speak to a young entrepreneur I ask ‘Why’ a lot. They always have answers for the name, product idea, and why they started. I want more, though. I want to know the true essence of the Brand.
I want to know:
- Who they are
- How they fit into the Brand
- What they hope to achieve
- How they want people to feel
- What kind of person they want to reach
- Where they want the idea to go
- Why they get up each day to do what they do
They have answers to some, but often sit in silence. I’m sorry, but these are things you should know. This is your Business. You know it better than anyone.
You Hold The Answers
I’m The Brand Storyteller, so I’m obviously going to say it needs to be comprehensive. Bias to one side, it can be anything you want it to be.
It doesn’t need to be a glossy booklet. What it needs is an in-depth look at what you’re doing. In five years time do you still want to be doing the things you set out to achieve? When I ask this question people say YES.
A Brand Story humanises the entire process. It gives it a soul and purpose. What is a Brand Story? That’s what it is.
What’s your Brand Story?
Have you ever really thought about your Brand at a deep level?
Please share your thoughts in the comments below…
Turndog Millionaire – @tundog_million
