Your first step in brand building is not your website (world wide web)

W - Who are you?

W - What do you do?

W - Why does it matter to others?

These are fundamental questions that lay the foundation for the brand-building and marketing journey of any organization or product. Unfortunately, many organizations fail to simplify their offerings in this manner.

In my view, brand building begins by asking the right questions like Where is your product or service being sold? Who are the people purchasing it? What does its price communicate about its desirability?

These questions hold the keys to setting your brand apart from the competition. The creation of a brand identity comes later. Many organizations still consider logo development as a primary task and neglect to craft a narrative for their offering.

These questions reflect our commitment to taking our brand seriously and differentiating ourselves from the competition. Unfortunately, many organizations lack clarity in their thought process when it comes to developing a website.

As a result, they often rely heavily on agencies or developers to create content for their brand. The consequence? A brand that struggles to authentically express itself, missing the opportunity to convey its image, tone, voice, values, mission, and vision effectively.

In today's world, where many products, whether it's mobile handsets, toothpaste, or cars, share basic design models, what sets them apart in the minds of buyers is the unique, distinct, and consistent perception created by the producer through various touchpoints. It’s all about how well do you know your story and how effectively you can make your buyers believe in it.

Have you ever encountered the storytelling marketing of MamaEarth and learned about how their founder initiated their business?

Who - New parents who identified a gap in the market for chemical-free baby products.

What - Initially, they offered non-toxic D2C baby care products and later expanded their product line.

Why - Chemicals, when exposed to a baby's delicate skin, can cause rashes, inflammation, and allergies. MamaEarth understood the needs of young parents, their struggles, and their desire for quality and safety for their children.

It might seem like simple and basic rules for building a brand, but in reality the simplest things are often the most challenging to accomplish and ignored.

Have you addressed all the Ws? If yes, do share your insights in the comments. If not, take a moment to think and identify them.

Pro tips - Remember, successful brand building is akin to investing in a mutual fund—an ongoing process that demands dedication, discipline, and a deep understanding of your brand's identity and its relationship with your audience.