Three Objectives of Brand Awareness

[Monirul Islam]

Marketing strategists agree that brand awareness in any industry gives that company an edge. Brand awareness accomplishes several objectives for companies seeking to increase sales in the marketplace. A brand awareness campaign needs to be flexible enough to grow with the company and adjust if needed. The company should seek to build customer awareness, promote its website and add value.

Brand awareness follows a certain process, although customers do not usually think through these steps when choosing a product. First, the customer has a perceived need for a product. In many cases, he will seek information on what product to buy. He will often evaluate his alternatives, although in some cases, such as in buying a drink, he may simply buy what's convenient. At the same time, he will place a value, both financial and personal, on the product he plans to buy. After he buys your product, he will review his purchase and make adjustments. Sometimes these adjustments will be immediate; in other cases, they are long term. For example, if he doesn't like the drink he bought, the next day, he will choose a different drink. But if he doesn't like the vehicle he purchased, it could be two to five years until he makes a different purchase.
Build Customer Awareness
Target the desired customer base. From there, the business can more easily assess what it needs to do to increase customer awareness. For instance, a customer awareness strategy will focus on different audiences depending on if the product is toys, car products or walkers for those with mobility issues. In each case, the business will use different advertising campaigns to increase customer awareness. Every business needs to overcome certain challenges so the customer understands the benefits of working with that particular company.
Promote the Website
A website helps create a worldwide customer base. Customers no longer limit themselves to buying from a specific geographic location. A customer might research a product and then follow up with a catalog or phone order instead of a personal visit to the company location. Hiring a graphic designer can assist a business in projecting the type of image they want to portray. Coordinating business cards, marketing materials and additional advertising all further enhance customer awareness. Consistency in design helps customers connect that logo with the business and product.

Add Value
Every customer will determine value in different ways. Brand awareness can give your business that "edge" in making your customers aware of the extra value your company offers. This might be in the form of service, such as three free oil changes in a year with the purchase of a motorcycle. Your packaging might be slightly larger, which brings increased quantity. Your location might be unique and easily accessible. The business may sponsor special events, promote volunteer service or support a worthwhile organization. You will need to decide which one of these avenues will work best for your company.

Finally, give the business the time needed to develop brand awareness. In most cases, this process does not happen overnight. While the ultimate goal is for the company to identify the success level of brand awareness campaigns, the business should always continue to appreciate and track even the slightest progress.

Source: http://www.businessdictionary.com/article/571/three-objectives-of-brand-awareness/