Let’s talk about brand playbooks. You might be thinking, “Oh, that sounds like a lot of work and money.” But, I’m here to tell you it’s much simpler and more budget-friendly than you might expect!
What is a Brand Playbook?
So, what’s a brand playbook? It’s essentially your brand’s guidebook. It covers everything from how your logo should look to the tone of your messages and the colours you use. It’s all about keeping your brand consistent and recognisable.
The Myth of Complexity
There’s a common misconception that you need a big team and a big budget to create a brand playbook. People often think it’s a complex, expensive process that’s out of reach for small businesses or solo entrepreneurs. But that’s not the case.
Keeping it Simple
In reality, a brand playbook can be as basic as a single-page PDF. It’s about being clear and concise. The key is to focus on the essentials: your brand’s personality, visual identity, and communication style. That’s it!
DIY Brand Playbook
You can totally DIY your brand playbook. Start by writing down what makes your brand special. What’s your brand’s voice? What’s your style? What are your key messages? This doesn’t have to be elaborate; just captures the essence of your brand and gives you a consistent point of reference for everything you do (remember, your brand isn’t just a logo!).
When to Consult a Creative Expert
Sometimes, you might need a bit of extra help, especially when shaping your brand’s identity, tone, or mission statement. If you’re finding it challenging to distil the essence of your brand or if you want to ensure your brand communicates effectively, this is a great time to bring in a brand consultant like me! I can offer fresh perspectives and expertise to refine your brand’s identity and ensure your playbook resonates with your audience.
The Benefits of a Simple Brand Playbook
A simple playbook has several advantages. It’s straightforward for you and your team to understand and use. This ensures that everyone is aligned, making your brand appear cohesive and professional. Plus, it’s much easier to update and adapt as your brand evolves.
Even larger brands should consider a one-page playbook to help bring new team members or agencies up to speed with the critical information.
Remember, creating a brand playbook doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It’s about focusing on the basics and maintaining consistency. A creative consultant can be a valuable asset when you’re looking to refine your brand’s identity, but you can start simple and build from there.
If you’re just starting out, or need some help getting your brand vision into shape, get started by booking a free brand consultation with me.