OK, please note that there is nothing wrong with vanilla…it’s an all round ‘nice’ flavour, colour, smell….but, it’s not got the big WOW factor has it??
In this online world, standing out is crucial for success. Yet, many businesses struggle with a brand identity that blends into the background like plain vanilla. While vanilla is a classic flavour, having a “vanilla” brand could mean your business lacks distinction, personality, and memorability. In todays blog post, I’m going to help you explore the signs that your brand might be too vanilla and provide actionable tips on how to add flavour and spice to your brand identity.
1. Does Your Brand Blend In?
One of the telltale signs of a vanilla brand is its ability to blend seamlessly into the crowd. If your brand fails to catch the attention of your target audience or struggles to differentiate itself from competitors, it might be too vanilla. The worst thing you can do when creating content for social media, your website or other marketing is to spend all that time creating assets that just don’t stand out and have that instant scroll stopping energy.
2. Are Your Brand Elements Generic?
A vanilla brand often exhibits generic elements such as a bland logo, uninspiring colour palette, and forgettable typography. Now I cover a whole range of info on brand visuals (that’s my jam after all!) but to summarise – your brand visuals should infuse your personality and creativity to make a lasting impression and connect with your audience.
3. Does Your Brand Lack Storytelling?
Effective branding goes beyond products or services; it tells a story that resonates with your audience/clients on an emotional level. Vanilla brands often overlook the power of storytelling, resulting in a lack of connection with their audience. Your brand narrative should captivate and engage with your audience to make them want to find out more about you and your services and, more importantly, book you!
4. Is Your Branding Consistent but Dull?
Consistency is key in branding, I go on about this ALL the time and am constantly reminding my clients about being consistent. But honestly, it really is SO important! That said, if your brand’s consistency veers into predictability and you’re just sharing the same old content time and time again, it may be time for a refresh. Consistency is even more powerful when you’re injecting creativity and innovation into your messaging and visual identity.
5. Are You Struggling with Audience Engagement?
A vanilla brand often struggles to spark excitement or create any kind of real engagement with its audience. As an example, Instagram stories are one of THE best ways to sell your offers right now but if you aren’t getting those interactions and DMs from your stories, you’re probably just not captivating your audience enough to stop them in their tracks and make them feel like they need what you do!
The online world is a busy place so in order to stand out and be seen by those dream clients, being vanilla just isn’t going to cut it anymore!
In a world where consumers are bombarded with countless options, having a vanilla brand is a recipe for being overlooked and forgotten. By recognising the signs of a bland brand and taking proactive steps to add flavour and spice, you can create an online magnetic brand that stands out, resonates with your audience, and leaves a lasting impression.
Embrace creativity, authenticity, and storytelling to transform your brand from vanilla to vibrant.
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i'm a 6/2 generator, podcast host, creative brand mentor, speaker, mum of 3, multi-tasking queen, soul-led leader, rule breaker, and your best cheerleader
I’ve never fit into boxes - and I know you haven’t either.
You’re not here to follow a cookie cutter formula. You’re here to lead with soul, live with freedom, and bring your full magic into the world.
I’m not here to hand you a method. I’m here to help you reconnect with your vision, claim your brilliance, and finally start turning your vision board into a reality - in a way that’s aligned with you.
Because this work isn’t just about helping others (even though you do that beautifully). It’s about remembering that your life gets to feel like magic, too.
Aries sun - so yes, I move fast, feel deeply, and do it all with fire.
Forever obsessed with dogs (the bigger the better), mochas (iced or hot), and building brands that roar.
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