In the past, having a logo only seemed possible for the big major brands. Famous logos like Nike, FedEx, and McDonalds, are well recognized around the world.
The Internet has changed the game a bit. Your “everyman” Internet entrepreneur can now have an Internet presence. Creating and using a logo can be a valuable asset to your business. It adds credibility and power to any business.
When planning a logo for your business there are a few rules to follow which will assist you in the process. But before we get to the five rules, you must ask yourself a few questions.
- Why do you want a logo?
- What is the message you want the logo to convey?
- Who is your target audience?
- What do you want them to think when they see your logo?
- How do you want them to remember your site?
Be sure to write your answers down so you can reflect on them over a period of time.
1. A logo is a representation of your business brand. It can’t tell your visitors everything that you do in your business but it should reflect it. After answering the questions listed above, you should have a better idea as to how your logo can best suit your business.
If you are in the rock music business then the logo might be rough looking and bright colored. Whereas, if you are in the beauty industry, it might be softer with light colors.
2. Your logo should be memorable and therefore recognizable. Simple is the best rule of thumb to follow. A photograph is not a logo. You’ll find some people use their photos on their sites and where this helps the individual to be recognized as a person, it does nothing to represent their business. Plus, should they ever leave their business to someone else their photo would no longer be suitable and the business brand could suffer. Think long term. The logo has to have ‘legs’.
3. Colors are important. For many the color green means money; blue is calm, trustworthy; red means STOP or danger; black can reflect moody and dark; and yellow is knowledge. Think about how you respond to colors. There are many books on the subject and color does have an affect on people.
4. Don’t copy another person or business’ logo. First, they are usually trademarked or copyrighted and secondly, you want to be distinctive and recognized for your diversity. Stand out from the crowd. Dare to be different. Make a statement with your logo.
5. Once you have created a logo and have begun using it…don’t change it! You can really damage your business by changing your logo if people have become familiar with it and are used to seeing it. Put yourself in your consumer’s shoes. What would you think if McDonald’s® or Nike® changed theirs? You’d wonder what was going on. Will they be the same company you became used to?
Creating a logo can be fun and exciting. Remember that it is part of your personal brand and your business. Keep it simple and yet appropriate and most of all, make it your own.
Here are a couple logos we have designed for our clients with their brand personality in mind.
Take a moment and check out our “Branding Services!”
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