What is the importance of defining brand values?
Brand values are crucial intangible elements that operate at the core of any company, infused in its DNA. These values not only identify and strengthen the brand, but also provide a lasting connection with audiences. Think of them as the essential ingredients of an exceptional recipe, dictating the personality and direction of any effective communications strategy. The task is to discover what are the differentiating, overarching and supporting values to establish a strong and authentic brand.
How to identify the differentiating and supporting values?
Determining the values of a brand involves an exhaustive process of selection and analysis, not only of the internal identity but also of the competitive environment. This procedure includes:
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Research and analysis of the environment:
- Inquiring about current trends and examining messages communicated by competitors.
- Gathering relevant facts and figures about the industry and target audience.
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Defining initial values:
- Identify a preliminary list of values based on the brand's mission and vision. Examples may include authenticity, social responsibility and personalization.
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Values filtering:
- Discard those values that match the competitor's proposition.
- Choose values that truly differentiate the brand and are not widely adopted in the marketplace.
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Selection of supporting values:
- From the remaining differentiating values, choose those that will be the fundamental pillar. These values are those that the brand wants to deeply integrate into its culture and communications.
How is a brand values diagram structured?
A values diagram allows you to graphically represent the brand's core values, their points of equality, difference and support. This diagram is discussed and developed in conjunction with the brand managers or owners. It is a visual representation that facilitates replacements and adjustments according to market needs or brand evolution.
Steps to create the diagram:
- Identify and categorize the values: place on the diagram the points of equality (similarity with the competition) and the points of difference.
- Detail the supporting values: Define how these are fundamental in consolidating the brand's personality.
- Integrate feedback and adjustments: As the brand develops, make changes to ensure that the values accurately reflect the identity and strategic direction.
How do you communicate brand values effectively?
Effectively communicating values does not mean explicitly mentioning them in all communications, but integrating them in a way that inspires and drives brand messaging. Here are some useful tips:
- Develop a short piece of copy for each value: describe what each value consists of and how it integrates into product or service development.
- Generate content inspired by values: Values should be the input for content creation, enriching communication with messages that inspire audiences.
- Maintain relevance and authenticity: Values must be uniquely defined and consistent with the brand, manifesting its social and cultural impact.
The challenge is to build an emotional bridge with the audience through clearly articulated values, which will undoubtedly reinforce brand loyalty and recognition. Determine today what are the fundamental values of your brand, those that will be defined as points of equality and difference, creating content that reflects the essence and vision of your company.
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