Branding is a hugely important element of any business, and it’s also an area that’s constantly evolving. With that in mind, many companies bring in external brand consultants to help them plan, develop and manage their brands effectively. But what does a brand consultant do? And how can you tell whether or not they’re right for your company’s needs?
Brand strategists are skilled in the creation of strategic branding plans that ensure a business’ products or services are differentiated from their competitors. They are able to conduct in-depth market research to understand consumer preferences, trends and other relevant factors. They are also capable of conducting value audits to make sure a company’s fundamental values and messaging are in line with their unique value proposition.
In addition, they are able to provide creative direction to designers to ensure all marketing and branding material is aligned with the brand strategy and key target groups. This includes visual identity logos, typefaces, colour palettes, website layouts etc. and messaging copywriting. It’s also important that a brand consultant is able to work well with clients, so they can understand their needs, communicate ideas clearly and collaborate effectively.
They are also capable of conducting business modelling workshops with a client’s leadership team to align them on the strategic vision for their brand. They are also able to create brand roadmaps and timelines to keep everyone on track for the achievement of a company’s branding objectives.
It’s also important that a brand consultants has good communication skills, as they are responsible for building relationships and bringing leadership teams into alignment on the vision for their brands. They should also be able to present their ideas and recommendations in a confident manner.
As with any job, there are different specialisms within the field of brand consulting, so it’s important that you do your research before hiring someone to take on this role. A good place to start is by asking them about their background and what kind of clients they have worked with in the past. If they have a broad range of experience in the industry, this is a positive sign that they can adapt to whatever your company’s needs may be.
You can find brand consultancy positions both online and at marketing agencies. Some people choose to become freelance brand consultants, as this gives them more flexibility and control over their working hours and fees. Others prefer to work with a branding agency because it offers them more security and opportunities for career progression. Either way, it’s worth considering the pros and cons of both options before making a decision. And remember, whichever option you choose, it’s important to keep up with the latest branding trends and practices to remain competitive in your industry. After all, a strong brand can be the most effective tool for achieving your company’s growth and success. Good luck!