Google, IBM, Apple, Microsoft & Coca-Cola - these are the 5 most valuable global brands for 2010. What do all of these brands have in common? Iconic imaging and powerful visual branding. If you're trying to build a brand for your small business - or just a consistent marketing image, it's worth investing in a logo.
Why create a business logo? Will customers really view your business differently based on a simple logo or watermark? Here are a few value-added features of a company logo, according to a recent blog post on corporatelogos.ws:
- A corporate logo provides a professional and authentic feel to your small business.
- Most people remember more of what they see than what they hear or read. So your logo generates memorability and recollection in the minds of the customers.
- With a corporate logo, your small business will possess the merit of facing the corporate giants.
- Proper branding generates trust and loyalty among your customers.
- It enhances your business existence in the marketplace by acting as a reminder.
- An already established brand identity helps you in expansion of your business to newer domains.
Check out the full blog post here.
A logo doesn't need to be fancy to do the job. Actually, in most instances simpler is better - sometimes little more than a textual image of the business name is needed.
Getting a logo for your small business really isn't that complicated. If you're looking to keep things to a $0 budget you can always go the DIY route - or, if you have a friend or family member with basic design abilities - ask if they'd be willing to help out. Most amateur artists aren't in it for the money - having their artwork made visible as the logo of your business is actually pretty good compensation for most amateurs.
Another route, if you're not looking for anything too flashy or customized, is to take advantage of online logo-generators. Just google Business Logo and you'll get a few starts (try: LogoYES). If, however, you're looking for something a little more professional, you will need to hire a freelance designer. For between $250-750 dollars you should get something you like (Pricing Examples: A / B).
Think about the logo you want to represent your business before allowing a designer to run wild. Set parameters for the logo - what colours fit your business? Are you looking for something bold, or understated and elegant? Also try to think about the longevity and staying power of any potential logo. Unless you're planning to update your logo every few years, consider the logo as a long term investment. Changing a logo after your customers are accustomed to your look is also a dangerous proposal - consider the negative feedback that Starbucks received after a recent attempt to streamline their logo.
A logo can be the face of your business - especially in an increasingly digital world. If you run a website, twitter account or have another online presence, your logo will be the first point of contact. Your logo will make your business card more attractive, company letterhead more professional and marketing efforts more meaningful. Probably worth the $0-500.