Are you putting off designing a logo for your business? Maybe you don’t want to lock yourself into a design, or you’re worried that a great logo will cost a lot of money. But you shouldn’t let these concerns delay your first step in making a logo and building a business brand.
After all, Nike paid just $35 for its well-recognized swoosh, and Twitter’s first logo only cost the company about $15. Forget your worries about cost and restriction, and take the leap! Your business will be healthier for it. Here are 5 reasons why logos are important for small businesses today.
Convey brand emotion with logo colors
The Red Bull logo uses the color red and hints at power, fire, energy, and excitement—exactly what this energy drink provider wants to communicate. And is it a coincidence that RedBox and Netflix also use red in their logos?
It’s a strategic decision: A clever use of color within the logo to help people feel passionate about their entertainment choices. The green of the Starbucks logo hints at eco-friendly fields of coffee, and the yellow of McDonald’s arches indicate joy and happiness.
By creating a colorful logo, you can start to communicate specific emotions and inspire your customers.
Increase influence with your audience
Did you know that children as young as 3 – 5 years old begin to associate logos with products? Around ages 7 and 8, kids can consistently connect logos with products or services they enjoy. Those associations last a lifetime and build valuable customer loyalty. Imagine building that kind of meaningful, multi-decade relationship with your customers.
Make your business look more professional
What will people think about your company if you don’t have a logo? Without a logo, you’re stuck with portraying your company name in plain, standard font. It’s not exciting or interesting, and it can actually turn people off of your brand. With a logo, your company looks more professional. The logo lends weight, meaning, and stability to your business.
Tell your brand story through your logo design
You don’t want to over-complicate your logo, but you do want it to represent who you are as a company. For example, the Apple logo references an apple, connected to knowledge, learning, and information. Someone has already taken a bite, or “byte,” from the apple to create a clever play on words. Through its logo, Apple represents knowledge, technology, and innovation.
The Disney logo features a swirling script font, bold yet whimsical—carrying the name of the man who started an empire of fairytales and fun. Like these famous examples, your logo can tell a simple story. It can subtly communicate thoughts and ideas to your customers without overwhelming them.
A logo launches your brand
Your first logo doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate—it just has to be clear and meaningful. Once you’ve picked your brand colors, selected a font, and designed your logo, you can use these design guidelines for all your marketing pieces. From business cards to signs to your website, all these elements should have a consistent look and feel.
> If you’re ready to get started, take a look at some of the logo design templates in our logo maker. You can make a logo and use it on business cards, promotional products, websites, and more.
