Competition is intense. Regardless of the product or service a person or organization is trying to sell, similar products or services are available. To become the first choice in this cluttered marketplace, branding online and offline is a must.

Building a strong brand is one of the most important things a person or organization can do to increase visibility, build a good reputation, and become a trusted brand. Consumers associate a brand with a certain identity. These identities communicate messages, build credibility, and motivate prospects to buy.

Whether you are building a personal brand or business brand, you can use these 9 tips I follow when I create a branding plan for one of my clients:

1. Be consistent. All marketing material tones and messaging (websites, logos, slogans, mission statement, brochures, postcards, sales letters, newsletters, advertisements, etc) must be consistent. Unclear or conflicting messages cause confusion.
2. Write a mission statement. A mission statement should tell who you are, what you do, and how you can add value to the marketplace.
3. Get involved in the community. Sponsoring a charity event, attending fundraisers, and volunteering builds brand awareness and helps the community. Joining the local Chamber of Commerce is beneficial for connecting with other business owners in the community.
4. Develop strategic alliances. Cross promotions with non-competing businesses are a good opportunity to expand your market.
5. Write a press release. Whenever you launch a new product or service, a newsworthy event occurs, or you achieve a major accomplishment, writing and distributing press releases online and to print media is a great way to increase visibility.
6. Seek testimonials. Endorsements and testimonials are powerful because they build brand credibility and trust.
7. Show off and brag a bit. Add a media page to your website showing where you or your business have been featured.
8. Establish credibility. Become an expert in the industry by writing by-lined articles for industry blogs, websites, newsletters, newspapers, or magazines. Create an organizational blog and print or electronic newsletter for consumers.
9. Engage. Social media is becoming an essential tool. Get involved in conversations, ask questions, give advice, attend workshops, tele-seminars, and network with like minded people. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your network expands.

Branding is vital since it not only defines an organization or individual, but also creates a perception of value. We live in an online world but offline branding is still important. How valuable is your brand? What can you do to further build a strong brand identity?