Six actionable tips for boosting brand awareness
When it comes to getting your brand noticed, it’s easy to feel like the kid in the back of the class, waving frantically for attention while everyone else seems to have a bullhorn.
But you know what? Boosting your brand awareness does not have to be an uphill struggle to get noticed, it really doesn’t. Nor does it have to involve lots of shouty marketing campaigns of expensive celebrity endorsements (though, if Beyoncé’s available, go for it). Here are some real, actionable tips to boost your brand that won’t make you cringe.
1) Begin with branded merch
People love free stuff, even if it’s just a simple pen or branded keychain from Myers. So, if you can offer them free stuff, they are undoubtedly going to take it. Make sure that free stuff is emblazoned with your brand and that it is something people will actually want to use or wear, and that’s everyone they know who is going to suddenly become aware of your brand, Cool, right?
2) Have fun on social media
Everyone’s on social media, but not everyone’s doing it right. If your idea of a social media strategy is posting dry updates about your latest sale, let’s change that. Try injecting some humour, show the behind-the-scenes antics of your team, or run silly polls (cats vs. dogs, anyone?). The goal is to be memorable, not just another brand filling up the feed. Pro tip: respond to comments with personality. Nothing says “we’re human” like replying to a follower with a witty quip or a well-placed GIF.
3) Collaborate with other brands
Why go it alone when you can collaborate? Partner with a complementary business and create something together. Whether it’s a joint event, a co-branded product, or even just a cheeky Instagram shoutout, collaboration can introduce your brand to a whole new audience. Bonus points if it’s an unexpected pairing – like a coffee shop teaming up with a fitness brand for a “workout & espresso” day. Two brands, one genius idea.
4) Host an event that doesn’t suck
Networking events and corporate meetups can be a snooze-fest, but they don’t have to be. Why not host something people will actually want to attend? Think food trucks, live music, or a quirky theme that ties in with your brand (Silent disco at the office? Yes, please). The key is to make it fun and memorable, so even if people don’t remember your elevator pitch, they’ll remember the great time they had—and your brand.
5) Leverage user-generated content
Encourage your customers to share their experience with your brand on social media. Create a unique hashtag, run a photo contest, or ask them to post selfies using your product in ridiculous ways. People love to feel involved, and when they share their content, it’s free advertising for you. Plus, everyone else gets FOMO when they see their friends enjoying your brand. Win-win.
6) Create content people want to read, not just scroll past
Here’s a crazy thought: write something worth reading. Instead of the same old, boring blog posts about how your product is “innovative,” create content that educates, entertains, or inspires. Whether it’s a funny anecdote, a how-to guide with a twist, or a relatable story about your team’s latest epic fail (because we’ve all been there), people will engage more when they’re entertained.
The bottom line? Getting your brand noticed doesn’t have to be a painful process. With these actionable tips, your brand can be the one people talk about – not because you’re shouting the loudest, but because you’re doing something worth talking about.
