I don’t need to worry about branding because it’s already happening…

My brand is my reputation, previous work and my testimonials.

If someone would like to make more money online and they decide they need a web designer or a web developer, I may end up in a short list of people to research.

The second they send me a message, email or call; my brand is building in their minds. The sooner I pick up or reply, the better the initial branding process starts. If I take 3 days (especially during a call), my brand looks terrible.

I meet the client and the way I dress, look, act and smell will affect my brand. My language and the politeness instilled by my parents will show through. It may or may not be accepted, but that is my brand.

They read my testimonials and look at past work… again, the brand is built.

I discuss possibilities with the client, past successes and external factors. I am making a promise and again growing my brand.

I don’t need to worry about branding because it’s happening every day whether I’m working on it or not, whether I want it to or not.

I have a strong, unique logo, this is what many people mistake as branding, actually it’s just an identifying mark, it promises nothing when stood alone. It’s not even that well designed! But it’s unique and allows people to associate a simple image with the feeling they got when communicating with me. Whenever they see this image, those same emotions and feelings will arise.

The question is, do I continue with this ‘accidental branding’ process and hope for the best?
This will allow my connections to be more natural. There will be people out there who don’t like me, there’s nothing wrong with that, but the slower work flow will be more pleasant as will the clients.

or do I make the effort to brand myself the way I want people to see me?
This is a little more effort, it drives me to improve and be more likeable. Fixing my flaws, driving my business forward and taking control not just of myself but strongly influencing what others are saying about me.

I know the answer for me, which do you choose?

A good way to approach people who don’t believe they’re big enough for a ‘brand’ image. You’re too late, it’s already happening.