This week we met with several clients who need a corporate identity. Each of them has been using some form of marketing materials to identify themselves and their companies. In most cases they’ve been using clip art and stock computer fonts in their business cards and logo.

While this may work for some, in the long run, you lack an iconographic presence that speaks for you when you are not there to speak about your company. In short, you lack a distinct, compelling way of communicating your brand message.

If you are establishing your business today, you need every advantage to set you apart.

No doubt you’ve crafted a strong position for your business or service; you’ve researched your competitors; you’ve researched what the market needs and then you use stock materials to present your company? You can understand the disconnect here.

There are a number of ways to have a corporate identity created. Some people are using internet based sites where for a very low price you can get a logo. But you don’t get the interaction with experienced marketing professionals who know your community, market and understand your USP.

We recommend you work with an experienced marketing professional who will assist you in bringing together all the insight you’ve gathered for your company, their professional experience in crafting successful brands and join it with compelling graphic design.

One of the clients with whom we met wondered what’s involved in creating a corporate identity. She couldn’t understand the cost / time involved and needed to actually see examples of how, for one prior client, we begin brain storming ideas, sketching up concepts, studying type, and then joining it all in ideas to present to the client.

A simple analogy is that of going to a custom tailor or couture fashion designer and asking for a bespoke creation. The result is a garment made for you, your measurements, with quality fabrics, excellence of cut, design and fit. When wearing such an item of clothing, you know you look good.

The same applies to creating your corporate identity. If it’s made to fit, to measure and just for you with the highest standards it is something that you know makes you look good, you stand taller, are more confident and are emboldened to do business, knowing your message is speaking without you having to open your mouth.