What We Know

Recently, a client’s two-day meeting coincided with a weekend convention where people who adore the My Little Pony franchise gathered to share their love for tiny, magical horses – TrotCon.

The lobby was filled with people who dressed up like video game princesses, strolled around with giant My Little Pony figurines, and some, even dressed like them. However, amidst all the costumes and excitement, there was a true embrace of individuality.

Branding is quite simply that: embracing individuality. As a company or person, it is important to remember what makes your brand unique and personal.

Most industries are in an overcrowded space – but what makes a consumer (whether personal, retail or B2B) choose one brand for another is all about the differentiator.

When we talk about O’Neill’s differentiator, thought-out implementation of marketing and communications strategies coupled with building long term relationships comes to mind. It is in our work that we showcase how marketing and communications is an asset and an investment for brands.

Over the past year, O’Neill held personal branding workshops at the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University, and to the Young African Leaders Initiative hosted by AYSPS.

Also Read: O'Neill Communications to Present Leadership Session at Georgia State University

The year focused on a drill down on two goals that any brand should focus on:

Identify your goals and brand values: What do you, your brand, your product stand for? What makes you stand out in the marketplace?
Write down your top three goals and brand differentiators to identify what makes your voice stand out. 

Become a thought leader: Thought leadership is created by original, relevant content that addresses your target audience’s needs and concerns. 
Provide insight on current trends and how it may be related to your market.

By creating discipline, commitment and consistency to those two goals, brands can generate greater awareness and recognition in their target markets.