5 Factors To Consider When Hiring A Branding Expert For Your Business

Published on: 30 October 2021 Last Updated on: 18 January 2025

In the last few years, more and more businesses are realizing the importance of branding. As against sales and marketing, businesses know that branding is essential for the long-term vision, sustainability, and growth of an organization.

While many businesses have made the mistake of equating branding with marketing, there is growing awareness that the two are separate in form and function. This is leading many businesses to invest in strategic branding experts that can help them.

In this resource article, we are going to look at five factors that businesses should consider before hiring branding experts, consultants, or strategists. If you are a business owner looking to invest in a long-term branding exercise, this article will guide you in the right direction.

How can a Branding Expert help a Business: What you need to know

Before we get to the list of factors that should be considered, it would be better if we discuss how a branding expert can help a business in the first place.

Business owners are in agreement that branding is important. What they do not know is how they should proceed. Many have the mistaken assumption that branding is only logo designing, social media presence, and marketing!

While this is not entirely false, the above constitutes just about 5% of what branding is all about.

In reality, a branding expert can help a business optimize three main focus areas about the brand-

Tangible Visual Properties- photoshoots, imagery, social media presence, logo designs, color schemas, fonts, website, blog section, and videos.
Tangible Textual Content- brand motto, values, culture, mission statement, blog articles, slogans or taglines, social media copy, and content.
Intangible Brand Promise- credibility, culture, personality, trust, levels and positioning, perception, experiences, customer service, and support.

As you can see from what we have mentioned above, this is a fairly exhaustive list of topics. An experienced and credible branding expert will help you address all the above goals and objectives.

List of 5 Factors to Consider when Hiring a Branding Expert for your Business

1. Creativity-

While technical specializations are an important aspect of the digital age, you want the branding expert/consultant/agency to be creative. Some of the leading brand strategists like Bennet Schwartz have several years of experience as Creative Director. Creativity is an essential factor you should look at as branding is all about good storytelling that captures audiences.

2. Experience-

Being great at branding requires years of experience. This is not something you can get up and get good at. It requires sophistication, expertise, and years of executing marketing and social media strategies. Great branding experts that lead organizations are often Creative Directors with a graphic design or copywriting background. You need to look for at least five years.

3. Past Client Credentials-

If you are lucky enough to get a branding expert that has worked with a business in your niche, you are on the right path. Even if you do not get one, the key is to look at past client portfolios. Ask the agency or expert to take you through the kind of work they did. Focus on both the creative as well as the technical ROIs. Do not hire someone before establishing credentials.

4. Timelines and ROIs on the Project-

Small trick- if the branding expert says that they will get you the moon and stars within six months, they are lying. You should bail immediately. Experts will tell you that branding is a long-term gain where you need to invest for at least two or three years to start seeing results. It is best to get a definite answer in this regard as it will help guide your business expectations.

5. Prices, Payment Structures, and Affordability-

This ultimately depends on what you are asking the branding agency to do. If you want the whole suite of what we mentioned in the earlier sections, you are looking at sizable costs. However, you can always break it up into stages and ensure incremental payments. Make sure to discuss the same with the agency so that there are no problems later on the payment front.

The Final Word

Branding differs from business to business. It is a completely individualized experience that comes with a customized strategy. In other words, what worked for one brand might not necessarily work for someone else. This is something that separates great branding experts from the ones who are just in the market to make some money. If you have any questions, you would like us to address, please let us know in the comments below.

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The Importance Of Accurate CRM Estimating For Your Business

Customer relationship management (CRM) is an essential aspect of any successful business. It involves managing interactions with customers, storing their information, and analyzing their behavior to improve customer experience and increase revenue. However, accurately estimating the cost of a CRM system is often overlooked, leading to unexpected expenses and potential financial losses. In today's highly competitive business environment, it's critical to have a solid understanding of the costs associated with implementing and maintaining a CRM system. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of accurate CRM estimating for your business, including the potential risks of inaccurate estimates, the benefits of accurate estimates, and strategies for ensuring your CRM estimates are as accurate as possible. By the end of this post, you'll have a better understanding of how accurate CRM estimating can help your business thrive. What Is CRM? CRM is an approach to managing customer interactions which seeks to improve satisfaction, devotion and overall company success. By leveraging CRM software, marketing and advertising agencies can streamline their workflow, enhance communication among team members, and make data-driven decisions. a. Definition Of CRM At its core, CRM refers to the strategies, technologies, and practices used by businesses for acquiring new clients while retaining current ones. It encompasses various aspects such as sales management, contact management, customer support services, as well as marketing automation tools that help in building strong relationships with clients over time. b. Benefits Of Using CRM Better client relations: A well-implemented CRM system allows you to understand your clients' needs better by providing insights into their preferences and behavior patterns. Informed decision-making: With accurate data at your fingertips through a centralized database within the CRM platform, it becomes easier for teams across different departments like sales or marketing to collaborate effectively on campaigns or projects. Increase efficiency: Automating routine tasks using a robust CRM solution saves valuable time for employees who can focus more on critical activities that drive revenue growth instead of mundane administrative workloads. Sales forecasting: Accurate sales projections are crucial in planning budgets or allocating resources accordingly; hence having access to real-time analytics provided by modern-day CRMs helps companies stay ahead of competitors when strategizing future plans based on past trends observed within their industry niche markets worldwide. The Importance Of Accurate CRM Estimating For Your Business In today's competitive business landscape, marketing and advertising agencies need to have a clear understanding of their clients' needs and the resources required to meet those needs effectively. This is where accurate customer relationship management (CRM) estimating comes into play. Accurate estimating is critical to ensure that marketing and advertising agencies are able to understand their clients' needs, determine the resources required, and ultimately meet those needs effectively. Why Accurate Estimating Matters Accurate CRM estimation plays a crucial role in determining the success of your agency's projects by helping you: Allocate resources efficiently: With precise estimates, you can better allocate your team members' time and skills to various tasks within a project. Maintain profitability: Underestimating or overestimating costs can lead to budget overruns or wasted resources - both detrimental factors that affect an agency's bottom line. Achieve client satisfaction: When you accurately estimate project requirements from the start, it becomes easier to set realistic expectations with clients and deliver results on time. How To Ensure Accuracy In Your Estimates To improve the accuracy of your CRM estimates, consider implementing these strategies: Break down projects into smaller tasks, making it easier for team members to understand specific responsibilities and deadlines associated with each task. Gather input from all relevant stakeholders involved in a project; this helps create more comprehensive estimations based on collective knowledge rather than relying on a single person's perspective. Utilize historical data from past projects to identify trends and patterns that can inform your current estimates. Gathering multiple perspectives on a project and utilizing historical data can help you make wiser decisions regarding resources, timelines, and financials. The Impact Of Poor Estimating On Your Business Inaccurate CRM estimating can have several negative consequences for your agency: Loss of revenue: Underestimating project costs or overestimating potential profits may lead to financial losses in the long run. Damaged reputation: Consistently failing to meet client expectations due to poor estimation practices could harm your agency's credibility and deter future clients from working with you. Burnout among team members: Overworked employees who are constantly trying to compensate for inaccurate estimations might experience burnout, leading to decreased productivity and higher turnover rates. To avoid these pitfalls, it is essential for marketing and advertising agencies like yours to prioritize accurate CRM estimating as part of their overall business strategy. By doing so, you'll be better equipped to deliver successful results consistently while maintaining strong relationships with both clients and team members alike. Accurate CRM estimating is essential for businesses to ensure their success and profitability. By improving the process, companies can maximize efficiency while reducing costs associated with poor estimates. Let's investigate strategies to refine our CRM estimating process in order to gain optimal outcomes. What Can A CRM Do For An Organization? A CRM system improves organizational efficiency by centralizing customer information in one place. This allows for better communication, collaboration, and decision-making across teams. Agency CRM by Function Point can automate tasks like data entry or follow-ups, saving time and resources. Additionally, a CRM system helps in identifying sales opportunities by tracking leads and nurturing existing clients to drive revenue growth. Conclusion In conclusion, accurate CRM estimating is an essential element for any business that wants to achieve success. It allows businesses to make informed decisions that result in better customer experiences, improved sales, and greater profits. By investing in the right CRM tools and adopting best practices for estimating, businesses can increase their efficiency and productivity while minimizing costly errors. Moreover, accurate estimating enables businesses to stay ahead of the competition by identifying opportunities for growth and expansion. As a result, businesses that prioritize accurate CRM estimating are better positioned to achieve long-term success in today's highly competitive business landscape. Read Also: CRMDialer: A Zoho Alternative 6 Top CRM For Small Businesses In 2019 Cold Calling Script For Successful Sales Persons

Eco-Conscious Insights And Innovations From Emerging Trade Show Trends

In a world increasingly attuned to the urgency of environmental sustainability, trade shows have become crucial platforms for showcasing eco-conscious insights and innovations. According to Sustainable Review, Sustainable Live London, SDG Summit, and Climate Week NYC are some of the biggest sustainability conferences and exhibitions. These exhibitions not only provide a glimpse into the future of sustainable practices but also serve as catalysts for change within industries. As we navigate the challenges of climate change, emerging trends in trade shows shed light on groundbreaking initiatives that prioritize the planet. In this article, we will explore the evolving landscape of eco-consciousness within the world of trade shows. Sustainable Materials Redefining Exhibits Trade shows are witnessing a transformative shift in booth aesthetics as sustainable materials redefine the exhibitor landscape. Gone are the days of disposable plastic and wasteful displays. Exhibitors are increasingly turning to eco-friendly alternatives like recycled cardboard, bamboo, and even mushroom-based materials to construct visually striking and environmentally responsible booths. As noted by Bis Research, mycelium-based materials have the potential to significantly contribute to the green economy and environment. They save energy and offer insulation. These materials not only reduce the overall carbon footprint of the event but also serve as powerful statements on the viability of sustainable design. From modular structures to biodegradable banners, the creative use of sustainable materials is fostering a new era of conscious exhibition design. This inspires both exhibitors and attendees to consider the ecological impact of every element in their displays. Energy-Efficient Booth Designs Innovative booth designs are taking center stage at trade shows, with a spotlight on energy efficiency. According to Exhibits Northwest, exhibitors are incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as solar panels and energy-efficient LED lighting to power their displays. As noted by the Department of Energy, LEDs consume up to 90% less energy than standard lights while lasting up to 25 times longer. This move toward sustainable energy not only minimizes the environmental impact of events but also sets a precedent for practical, eco-friendly solutions. These energy-efficient designs serve as a visual spectacle while demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of incorporating green technologies into everyday business practices. As attendees experience the visual impact of renewable energy solutions firsthand, the ripple effect is a heightened awareness of the potential for sustainable practices. Sustainable Innovation With Local Trade Shows Across the United States, locals are leading the charge in embracing sustainable innovation. Cities and states are increasingly recognizing the importance of environmental responsibility, with communities actively engaging in eco-conscious practices. From the adoption of renewable energy sources to the implementation of green building standards, the commitment to sustainability is evident. Certain cities and states have become pioneers in this movement, setting ambitious goals and implementing comprehensive plans to reduce their ecological footprint. From California's stringent emissions standards to New York's initiatives promoting green infrastructure, these regions are at the forefront of the sustainability revolution. To further champion eco-conscious practices, trade shows focused on sustainability have become a hallmark across the United States. These events serve as platforms for sharing knowledge, showcasing innovations, and fostering a nationwide dialogue on the collective journey toward a more sustainable future. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Portland stands as a beacon of sustainable living and innovative environmental practices. Portland's residents have long embraced a lifestyle that prioritizes nature, sustainability, and community engagement. This extends to businesses and public institutions, making the city an ideal host for events dedicated to environmental responsibility. Known for its commitment to eco-conscious urban planning, Portland has earned its reputation as one of the greenest cities in the United States. According to Green City Times, Portland has created almost 92,000 acres of green space. This includes a network of pathways and parks excellent for walking and riding. Against this backdrop of eco-awareness and forward-thinking, the Oregon Convention Center (OCC) has emerged as a cornerstone of sustainability within the city. The OCC embodies the city's values through its commitment to green building and sustainable business practices. It frequently holds trade shows with numerous eco-friendly Portland trade show displays. As we explore the OCC's dedication to sustainability, it's essential to recognize how it integrates into the broader landscape of Portland's eco-friendly initiatives. Virtual Experiences for Reduced Carbon Footprint In response to the global call for reduced carbon emissions, trade shows are embracing virtual and hybrid experiences. This evolution allows for broader participation while significantly decreasing the carbon footprint associated with travel and logistics. Virtual components include interactive online exhibits and virtual networking spaces. This enhances accessibility while underscoring the importance of adopting eco-friendly alternatives in the face of climate challenges. As industries set sail toward more sustainable event formats, the positive environmental impact becomes evident. The shift toward virtual and hybrid experiences represents a dynamic step forward, proving that connectivity and eco-consciousness can go hand in hand. Circular Economy Initiatives in Product Showcases Trade shows are becoming key battlegrounds for the promotion of circular economy principles, particularly evident in product showcases. Exhibitors are spotlighting products designed for longevity, repairability, and recyclability, challenging traditional linear production models. From electronic gadgets with easily replaceable components to fashion items made from recycled materials, the emphasis is on creating a closed-loop system. This shift not only aligns with consumer preferences for sustainable products but also compels industries to reevaluate their approach to production. With circular economy principles, trade shows are driving home the message that sustainable consumption is not just a preference but a necessity. Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions The spotlight on sustainability extends to the very packaging that houses products exhibited at trade shows. Exhibitors are increasingly adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions that prioritize biodegradability, recyclability, and minimal environmental impact. From compostable wrapping to innovative designs that reduce excess packaging, the emphasis is on minimizing waste throughout the supply chain. This commitment not only resonates with environmentally conscious consumers but also prompts industries to rethink their packaging practices. The ripple effect is a broader shift toward a more sustainable and mindful approach to how products are presented and consumed. Collaborative Sustainability Initiatives Among Exhibitors The ethos of sustainability is thriving in trade show spaces, where exhibitors are forging collaborative initiatives to champion environmental responsibility. Shared efforts include waste reduction programs, carbon offset partnerships, and the establishment of industry-wide sustainability standards. This collaborative spirit not only amplifies the impact of individual exhibitors but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility across diverse sectors. Exhibitors are pooling resources, sharing best practices, and collectively working toward a common goal of reducing the ecological footprint of trade shows. As this collaborative momentum grows, trade shows are no longer just platforms for individual businesses. They have become hubs for collective action toward a more sustainable and resilient future. In conclusion, trade shows are driving transformative change through eco-conscious trends. From innovative booth designs with energy-efficient technologies to virtual experiences reducing carbon footprints, the industry is evolving. Local initiatives, like Portland's commitment to sustainability and collaborative efforts among exhibitors, highlight a collective dedication to environmental responsibility. Trade exhibitions have evolved into more than just a platform for businesses. They have also become focal points for collaborative efforts toward a more sustainable future. As the industry continues to prioritize greener practices, it contributes significantly to a broader global movement for sustainable business models and conscious consumer engagement. Read Also: What Type Of Inflatables Should You Opt For At Your Business Event Getting a Return on Investment From Using a Trade Show Booth A Well-Oiled Trade Show Machine: The Ones Running the Show

7 Common Construction Project Management Problems

Construction project management is a resource-intensive and complex process that involves coordinating different teams and disciplines to achieve a common goal. In addition, the construction industry is constantly evolving, so project managers must be adaptable and proactive to deliver projects successfully. However, even the most experienced and skilled construction project managers can face challenges during a project. Fortunately, construction project management software like Bridgit can help managers streamline employee management and performance. However, it's still critical to be familiar with the problems troubling the construction project management sector. Here are seven of them. 7 Main Problems Construction Project Managers Face: Every construction site has unique challenges, but some problems in construction project management are more common than others. 1. Undefined or poorly defined goals Every construction project should have specific and achievable goals to all team members. Without clear objectives, it isn't easy to measure progress and ensure that everyone is working towards the same vision. A common problem in construction project management is that goals are either undefined or poorly defined. It can lead to confusion and frustration among team members. In a recent survey, 52% of the respondents were dissatisfied with the project management maturity at their organization. It’s a wake-up call for project managers to step up their game regarding goal development. Plus, it's challenging to track progress without defined goals. As a result, the project may go over budget or take longer than expected. 2. Inaccurate estimates When creating a construction project budget, miscalculating the cost of materials or underestimating the time to complete a task can lead to big problems eventually. It's essential to be as accurate as possible when estimating the costs of a project. Suppose you're managing the construction of a new office building. You've estimated that the project will cost $5 million and take 18 months to complete. However, after six months, you realize that the project is only 50% complete and that the final cost will be closer to $8 million. It can cause problems for your construction project since you'll need to find additional funding to complete the project. 3. Employee turnover Employee turnover means that workers regularly leave and are replaced on a project. It can lead to a loss in productivity as new employees need time to get up to speed. High turnover rates can also lead to a shortage of skilled labor, which can impact the quality of work. On top of that, it disrupts the flow of communication and collaboration between team members. To deal with employee turnover, construction project managers should build a strong team culture. They should also create opportunities for employee development and provide competitive compensation packages. 4. Scope creep Scope creep occurs when the scope of a project starts to change or expands beyond the original scope. It can be caused by several factors, such as changes in the budget, unrealistic deadlines, or a lack of clear project objectives. Scope creep can significantly impact the budget, timeline, and quality of work. Therefore, construction project managers must understand the project objectives from the start. Here are some ways to tackle scope creep: Make sure everyone involved in the project understands the objectives. Keep track of any changes made to the scope. Work with the client to get approval for scope changes. Communicate with the team regularly to ensure everyone is on the same page. 5. Inadequate risk management OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has strict guidelines for the safety of construction workers. If these guidelines are not followed, it can result in injuries, accidents, and even fatalities. Construction project managers must identify and assess risks before they start working on a project. They should also develop a safety plan and ensure all workers are trained to stay safe. Inadequate risk management leads to the following problems: Injuries and fatalities: Workers can get injured or killed if risks are not managed properly. It can also result in legal problems and a loss of productivity. Property damage: Construction sites are often located near homes and businesses. If risks are not managed properly, they can damage the property. Loss of money: In case of an accident, construction companies must pay for medical expenses and property damage. 6. Poor communication Many construction projects are complex and require coordination between different teams. A lack of communication can result in errors. Some of these problems include: Lack of coordination: Poor communication translates to a lack of coordination. It can result in construction crews working on each other, leading to delays and errors. Delayed completion: A communication breakdown can cause a project to fall behind schedule, resulting in cost overruns and dissatisfied customers. Poor quality: If there is a lack of communication, it can be difficult to resolve issues. For instance, if a contractor does not communicate with the architect, the quality of the work may suffer. 7. Lack of technology The absence of technology from a construction site is a concerning matter that needs immediate attention. A construction company must have the latest technology to stay competitive and efficient. Technology has transformed the construction industry in recent years. In fact, the CAGR for the project management software industry is forecasted to be up to 10.67% by 2025. It has made it easier to communicate and coordinate between different teams. However, not all construction companies have embraced technology. Some companies still use outdated methods, resulting in errors and delays. How Can Construction Managers Avoid Common Project Management Problems? The key to avoiding common project management problems is effective communication. By staying in close contact with all team members, construction managers can stay up-to-date on potential issues and prevent them before they cause significant problems. Additionally, effective communication can help keep projects on schedule and within budget. Besides communication, construction project managers must also use technology to their advantage. This way, they can keep better track of deadlines, progress reports, and costs. Finally, construction managers need to have a good handle on the budget and schedule. They should be able to anticipate potential problems and take steps to avoid them. Conclusion As established, some common problems for construction project managers include lack of communication, ineffective budget handling, employee turnover, and unrealistic deadlines. While some of these can be out of your control, you can take steps to mitigate most of them. For example, creating a communication plan, being proactive about your budget, and being realistic about deadlines will help make your construction project more successful. Read Also: Project Management in a PRINCE2 setting How Can BYOD Improve Your Productivity? The New Global Project PRINCE2 Management Forum Commercial Construction After COVID-19: How Developers Can Adapt

5 Factors To Consider When Hiring A Branding Expert For Your Business

How can a Branding Expert help a Business: What you need to know