5 Tips For Designing A Logo ( expanded)

Expanding this guide into a comprehensive e-book will provide readers with deeper insights into each phase of logo design. Here’s an extended version, tripling the detail and data, as well as adding supporting insights and examples for each section. This edition will give readers a well-rounded understanding of each step and tip, drawing from research and case studies from top marketing agencies around the world.

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# The Ultimate Guide to Logo Design: 5 Steps to Crafting an Impactful Logo for Your Business

## Introduction

Creating a logo is much more than just a design task—it's a strategic business decision. From attracting the right audience to establishing trust and loyalty, a logo is often the first point of contact between a brand and its audience. According to global branding agencies like Interbrand and Landor, a logo plays a critical role in conveying a brand’s personality, values, and promise.

In this guide, we’ll dive deeply into the five most crucial steps to designing a logo, bringing in examples, data, and industry insights from top agencies to help you create a logo that connects with your audience and stands the test of time.

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### Chapter 1: The Power of a Great Logo

#### 1.1 Why Logos Matter

Logos have a significant impact on how consumers perceive a brand. According to research by the University of Loyola, Maryland, color increases brand recognition by up to 80%. Logos are especially impactful because they serve as a visual shortcut for customers to identify, trust, and remember a brand.

- **Case Study: McDonald’s Golden Arches**

McDonald’s golden arches are a universal symbol. With over 99% recognition globally, they represent the power of a simple, recognizable logo. McDonald's has carefully maintained the brand image, even as the business has evolved, demonstrating that a strong logo can support growth across decades.

#### 1.2 The Traits of Iconic Logos

What makes a logo stand out in a crowded market? Here are the five core traits that successful logos share:

1. **Memorable:** Studies from the Journal of Business Research show that memorable logos are often simple, yet distinct. When consumers can recall a logo easily, they feel more connected to the brand.

2. **Scalable:** As consumers interact with brands across multiple platforms, logos must be designed to look good in all sizes—from a tiny app icon to a billboard.

3. **Relevant:** A logo should represent the values and industry of a business. For example, green is frequently used in wellness and environmental logos because it evokes nature and health.

4. **Versatile:** An adaptable logo design works in color, black and white, and across various media.

5. **Timeless:** Logos that endure—such as Coca-Cola or Nike—are designed with long-term vision, avoiding trends that could make them feel outdated quickly.

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### Chapter 2: Getting Started – Laying the Foundation

#### 2.1 Step 1: Define Your Brand’s Identity

Your brand’s identity forms the foundation of your logo. The goal is to reflect not just what you do but how you do it. According to Siegel+Gale, brands that invest in a well-defined identity see up to 33% more brand loyalty.

- **Exercise: Brand Identity Questionnaire**

To clarify your identity, answer these questions:

- What values do we want to convey?

- What differentiates us from competitors?

- How do we want customers to feel when they see our logo?

By understanding your brand’s core identity, you’ll find it easier to design a logo that embodies your mission.

#### 2.2 Step 2: Research Your Competitors

Conducting a competitive analysis ensures that your logo will stand out while being industry-appropriate. Top agencies like Pentagram and Lippincott often advise a "benchmarking" phase, where logos from similar industries are analyzed to avoid accidental imitation.

- **Exercise: Competitor Comparison Grid**

Create a grid with competitor names on the left and categories like “color,” “shape,” and “iconography” across the top. Rate each logo based on its impact, originality, and alignment with the industry. This will help you see common themes and gaps where your brand can stand out.

#### 2.3 Step 3: Determine Your Logo’s Purpose

Decide if your logo will:

- Convey a direct message (e.g., “fast,” “luxury,” “eco-friendly”)

- Appeal primarily to aesthetics

- Focus on storytelling (perhaps hinting at your brand’s history or mission)

According to brand consultancy Prophet, logos that successfully blend storytelling with visual appeal perform up to 26% better in brand recall tests.

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### Chapter 3: Tips for Designing a Stand-Out Logo

#### Tip 1: Keep It Simple

Simplicity is consistently praised by top designers for being both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Simple logos like those of Apple and Google allow for easy recognition and are adaptable across platforms.

**Supporting Data:**

A survey by branding agency Siegel+Gale found that simple logos are more likely to engage customers, with 64% of respondents stating they were more likely to recommend brands with simple logos.

- **Example: Apple’s Iconic Apple**

Apple’s logo, originally a detailed illustration, was streamlined over time to become a simple, clean apple shape with a bite mark. This minimalist design reflects Apple’s core philosophy: simplicity and innovation.

> **Pro Tip:** Strip your design down to the essentials, and avoid overly complex symbols. Each design element should serve a specific purpose to support brand recognition.

#### Tip 2: Choose the Right Colors

Colors influence brand perception. Research from the University of Winnipeg found that color affects 90% of initial product assessment. Top agencies carefully select colors to convey emotions that align with the brand’s personality.

- **Color Psychology Basics:**

- **Blue**: Trustworthy, dependable (used by brands like Facebook, IBM)

- **Red**: Energetic, urgent (found in Coca-Cola and Target’s logos)

- **Green**: Eco-friendly, calm (used by brands like Whole Foods and BP)

> **Quick Tip:** Consider cultural perceptions of colors, especially if your business is international. Red, for example, symbolizes good luck in some Asian cultures but may convey warning or urgency in Western contexts.

#### Tip 3: Utilize Clever Double Meanings

Incorporating a clever double meaning can give your logo depth. This tactic uses visual metaphors to strengthen brand storytelling, as seen in logos like FedEx, with its hidden arrow symbolizing forward movement.

- **Case Study: Amazon’s “A to Z”**

Amazon’s logo includes a smile connecting the letters “A” and “Z,” symbolizing the company’s broad product selection. This simple visual metaphor subtly conveys Amazon’s brand promise.

> **Pro Tip:** If possible, find a way to incorporate symbolism that communicates your brand’s message subtly. This adds an engaging layer of meaning that resonates with audiences.

#### Tip 4: Embrace Negative Space

Negative space is a powerful design element that can make logos more engaging and memorable. Agencies like Landor recommend leveraging negative space to keep logos balanced and visually pleasing.

**Example: NBC’s Iconic Peacock**

The NBC logo’s colorful peacock uses negative space to form the bird’s shape, cleverly conveying that the network is “proud as a peacock” of its content.

> **Pro Tip:** Negative space helps simplify logos and makes them more adaptable. Keep an eye on how your design looks in both positive and negative space to ensure clarity.

#### Tip 5: Ensure Scalability and Flexibility

Your logo should look great whether on a billboard or a smartphone. Top agencies recommend creating a logo “system” with variants for different mediums. For example, you might use a simplified version of your logo as a social media icon.

- **Supporting Data:**

A study by Forrester found that brands with responsive logos had a 20% higher engagement rate across digital platforms compared to those with fixed, non-scalable designs.

> **Pro Tip:** Test your logo at different sizes and in various contexts. A highly detailed logo might look beautiful on a website but may become illegible on a mobile screen.

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### Chapter 4: Bringing It All Together – The Logo Design Process

#### 4.1 Step 1: Start with Sketches

Begin with rough sketches to explore different styles and concepts. Many designers start on paper, as it allows for quick exploration without the constraints of digital software.

#### 4.2 Step 2: Pick a Font that Aligns with Your Brand

Font choice plays a key role in logo perception. Sans-serif fonts like Helvetica are often associated with modernity, while serif fonts like Times New Roman evoke tradition and authority.

- **Example: Coca-Cola’s Script**

The flowing script of Coca-Cola’s logo embodies the brand’s heritage, tradition, and approachability.

> **Pro Tip:** Avoid trendy fonts that may become outdated quickly. Instead, look for timeless typefaces that align with your brand’s personality.

#### 4.3 Step 3: Digitalize and Refine

Use design software to bring your logo to life digitally. Adobe Illustrator is a go-to for professionals, offering precision and flexibility. For DIY designers, tools like Canva and The Hoth offer simpler alternatives.

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### Chapter 5: Testing, Feedback, and Iteration

Testing is a critical final step. Top agencies often use focus groups to evaluate logo effectiveness in real-world contexts.

#### Step 1: Create Mockups

Place your logo on different backgrounds, products, and digital screens. This will help you see how it performs in real-world settings.

#### Step 2: Gather Audience Feedback

If possible, test your logo with a sample of your target audience to gather insights into its appeal and effectiveness.

- **Data Point:**

A study from MIT Sloan Management found that logos designed with audience feedback had 40% higher brand engagement scores than those

created without it.

> **Pro Tip:** Iterative refinement is key. Use feedback to make subtle tweaks that enhance your logo’s impact.

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## Conclusion

A well-designed logo is essential for building brand recognition, trust, and loyalty. Following these steps will equip you with the tools and insights to create a logo that not only looks great but also resonates deeply with your audience.

Creating an effective logo is both a science and an art. By carefully researching, designing, testing, and refining, you’ll create a logo that represents your brand’s vision and connects with customers in meaningful ways.

Ai + Ei in the Future of Business

**Leading the Way: How WIM Group Champions the Integration of AI and Emotional Intelligence**

At WIM Group, we’re not just talking about caring for our people—we’re taking action. We believe that employees who dedicate a significant portion of their lives to our company deserve authentic support and understanding. Our commitment transcends profit; it’s about fostering trust and making a positive impact in the communities we serve. As we navigate the evolving landscape of technology, we understand that AI cannot replace the human touch. Instead, we leverage AI in tandem with emotional intelligence (EI) to create an innovative, people-first workplace.

### Taking Charge of Trust in AI

We recognize that trust is the bedrock of effective AI implementation. That’s why our CIOs, CTOs, and data teams are proactive in setting a clear vision for ethical and transparent AI use. They don’t just follow trends; they lead the charge by ensuring that our AI strategies align with our core values and the needs of our employees. In an era where the U.S. stands at the forefront of AI development, we embrace this leadership by committing to responsible AI practices that prioritize employee trust and well-being.

### Empowering Employees Through Emotional Intelligence

At WIM Group, we know that AI can be a game-changer for employee engagement and satisfaction. We actively integrate AI to provide valuable insights into employee well-being, allowing us to take proactive steps to address concerns before they escalate. Our leaders utilize AI-driven tools to assess sentiment and gather feedback, ensuring our teams feel supported and valued. This human-centered approach is our priority, and we’re proud to lead by example.

We also empower our employees to develop their skills through AI. By using intelligent platforms that highlight strengths and areas for improvement, we create pathways for professional growth. Our team members are not just numbers; they are individuals with unique talents and potential. We foster a culture of continuous learning, giving employees the space to explore new ideas and expand their expertise.

### Encouraging Innovation and Experimentation

Innovation thrives in environments where experimentation is encouraged. At WIM Group, we cultivate a culture that inspires our employees to engage with AI technologies fearlessly. We provide the tools and resources for teams to test new applications of AI, fostering creativity and driving business outcomes. Our leaders are dedicated to maintaining an open dialogue, where feedback is not just welcomed but actively sought. This empowers our workforce to be part of the innovation process, ensuring that they feel a sense of ownership and purpose.

### Upholding Ethical Standards

We hold ourselves accountable for the ethical use of AI. Our commitment to transparency means we’re clear about how and why we use AI technologies. We prioritize the ethical implications of our AI strategies, ensuring that they benefit all stakeholders. Our leadership understands that trust is built through communication, and we actively share our AI initiatives with our employees, making sure they are informed and engaged.

### Pioneering Questions for the Future

As we lead the conversation around the integration of AI and EI, we’re not shying away from the tough questions:

- *How can we harness AI to enhance emotional intelligence in our business practices?*

- *In what ways can AI boost employee satisfaction and retention?*

- *How do we empower our employees to leverage AI in understanding their own skills?*

- *What role do our tech leaders play in building trust in AI systems?*

- *What ethical standards guide our use of AI, and how do we uphold them?*

- *How do we create an environment that encourages learning and experimentation with AI technologies?*

### Our Vision for the Future

At WIM Group, we’re not just participants in the AI revolution; we’re leaders shaping its direction. We believe that when AI and EI work hand in hand, we can create a workplace that thrives on compassion and innovation. Our mission is clear: to harness AI’s power responsibly while keeping our people at the heart of everything we do.

By blending advanced technology with emotional intelligence, we’re setting a new standard for what it means to lead in the digital age. Together, we’re building a future where our employees feel supported, engaged, and inspired to make a difference. Join us on this journey as we continue to lead the way in creating a people-first workplace that embraces the possibilities of tomorrow.

A Letter From An Entrepreneur: Jamal Abdulrasheed

My name is Jamal Abdulrasheed and I am the Co-founder of Magnolia Green, a grooming company based out of Indianapolis that is focused on changing the narrative surrounding men’s grooming and self-care. Made with nothing but authentic ingredients, our products represent real people with real stories.

Who We Are

Our small, family-owned business began in February of 2021 when we realized we hadn’t been taking care of ourselves as well as we could. The COVID-19 pandemic woke us up to the importance of self-care and self-prioritization, which leads to ultimate self-preservation. We set out to help men establish and rejuvenate their self-care routine with products they could take pride in.

 Long before the pandemic, our story began when we, two brothers, were only boys. We learned of love, perseverance, and hope while being raised beneath the cool shade of our late grandmother and her Magnolia trees. Our grandmother and family matriarch, Z.L. Robinson, left Mississippi and the Jim Crow South and pursued a new life in the Haughville neighborhood of Indianapolis. She was a lover of good music, and despite her struggle with Alzheimer’s and Dementia in her old age, she never forgot the words to a classic Al Green song. We have fond memories of enjoying Al Green music with our grandmother until her final days. Like the sturdy Magnolia trees and the power of Green’s soulful music, we strive to always celebrate our rich origins and familial legacy.

I think it’s important to share this background information on our brand, because it provides color and context for many of the initial considerations (and struggles) my brother and I faced and continue to face with Magnolia Green. From day one, we understood that branding is everything and that to build something that would last, we needed to be candid about who we are, where we come from and how we intend to provide value to customers beyond selling them another product.

In this short article, I’ll discuss how important branding was for us, how patience is a virtue, and how you should think of entrepreneurship and getting started.

Branding, Branding, Branding

I can’t emphasize how important it was for us to nail the branding aspect of our business. We spent weeks upon weeks choosing the exact color codes, the fonts on our labeling and website, our custom logo design and the names of our products. My brother and I wanted our products to feel nostalgic, while serving as a constant reminder that wellness was an important aspect of a man’s day, every time they walked to their bathroom sink to begin or end their day. This goes a long way because you never know what opportunities will present themselves to you, and when you’re branding is already A1, life is easier. We’re in talks with a major grocery retailer at the moment, and branding wasn’t something we worried about because we know we already nailed it. Branding is everything.

Patience is a Virtue

I am now a proponent of the idea that “the devil is in the details.” This was an early pain point for my brother and I, because paying close attention to detail required us to spend nearly nine months getting this business off the ground. Designing our labels was a painstaking activity, and required many prints and shipments until we got it right. Now, nine months may seem like a short period of time for some, but time can be relative when starting a business and in my head this seemed like FOREVER. But as a first-time entrepreneur, I quickly learned that there’s something to be said about picking up a project, putting it down and reflecting, and then picking it up again with a fresh set of eyes. We could not have come up with the ideas, and changes to existing ideas, if we hadn’t taken every day of those nine months to scrutinize every aspect of our business.  Patience is truly a virtue.

Getting Started

Many people want to be entrepreneurs but can’t seem to find a business idea that sticks. I’ve wanted to be an entrepreneur for years but could never think of that one “bright idea.” But through starting Magnolia Green I learned a key lesson that all entrepreneurs should take heed to. JUST START SOMETHING AND START LEARNING. I say this because honestly, I can’t promise you that Magnolia Green will become some massive success, that we’ll be sold in retailers nationally, or that we’ll bring in six-figure revenues each month. But what I can say is that I know how to build a business from the ground up. I know how to run the numbers, market the business, hire independent contractors, file sales tax forms, create and design a Shopify website, work collaboratively with a business partner, and more. And the list goes on and on. You can’t take these experiences and skills away from me. My point is that entrepreneurship is about the reps or shots you put up in the practice gyms. Maybe you needed to put up more shots to realize what that big business idea was! Because when an opportunity presents itself, you’ll know you have the arsenal to see it through.

You can shop our natural beard care line at MagnoliaGreenCo.com. You can also join us on Instagram live for Magnolia Mondays where we have important conversations regarding men’s health and wellness. You can hear from us, other men, and experts discuss how we can increase wellness in our lives overall. If quality beard products and an improved lifestyle are what you seek, Magnolia Green is for you. Together we will become the best versions of ourselves one step at a time.

Good luck with your entrepreneurial journey!

- Jamal Abdulrasheed, Esq. – Co-founder, Magnolia Green Grooming Co.

Follow Magnolia Green on Instagram and check out their website for products.

Are Business Cards Dead? 5 Reasons Why It’s Time to Go Digital

This article is reposted with permission from HiHello. The original blog post can be found here.

As paper card usage declines, digital business cards will emerge as the leader in global contact exchange.

Business cards have been around for centuries, but paper cards won’t have a place in a post-COVID19 world. Receiving a potentially germ-ridden object from a complete stranger, well, that’s probably a thing of the past.

While face-to-face networking has slowed due to social distancing regulations, networking online has become more and more common. This is a good thing—life is made up of our interactions with others, and being able to meet and connect with new people is how we grow our personal and professional relationships, even if it is over FaceTime or a Zoom call. Instead of halting everything we previously did in-person, we’re digitizing our social experiences. We’re adjusting to a new normal, and that’s what it’s going to take to successfully navigate life after coronavirus.

As we enter this era of virtually-driven social meetings, paper business cards will become more and more obsolete. However, they’ve paved the way for something new: digital business cards.

What are digital business cards?

Example of HiHello business card.

Digital business cards are the electronic version of your stereotypical paper business card. There are a few digital business card apps out there that allow you to create and customize your own cards, and often are free to use. Digital business cards are more easily accessible and shareable than traditional paper cards, and will soon become the go-to when it comes to exchanging contact information.
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Here are five reasons why digital cards will soon replace paper business cards.

1) Digital business cards are germ-free

Most of us are embracing our inner-germaphobe these days. When we meet someone for the first time, we don’t know where they—or their hands—have been. Digital cards are completely touch-free—there’s no physical exchange required. Exchanging digital business cards with someone diminishes any possibility of germ exposure. (Even better, you don’t need to be physically near someone to send them an electronic card!)

2) You can share digital cards with anyone, anywhere

Until now, exchanging business cards meant you had to be physically present to share and receive cards. HiHello—a digital business card and contact management app—provides a seamless way to share contact information with anyone from a safe distance. With HiHello you can create and send your digital card to anyone for free, even if they don’t have the app. (You can even share your business card over a Zoom call!)‍

Sharing HiHello digital business card.

3) Digital business cards are always up-to-date

Every time you switch jobs, get a promotion, or change your email address, chances are you need to order new business cards. ‍

Save the money.

Oftentimes digital business cards are free, and by going digital you can update your card on the go. You can also add richer information to your digital card than you could a paper one. Add a video, your social media profiles, birthdays, anniversaries, and more—your cards are completely customizable, and can be edited at any time.

4) Digital cards are better for the planet

Did you know that over seven million trees are cut down each year for paper business cards? And with 90% of paper business cards thrown away immediately, that’s a lot of wasted paper. Digital cards produce no waste and reduce your carbon footprint.

Seven million trees would be saved every year if everyone switched to digital business cards.

5) You can use your digital business card app to scan paper cards

In the off-chance that someone does try to hand you a paper card, you don’t necessarily need to turn it down. A few business card apps have built-in business card scanners, so politely ask the person to hold up their card and then use your phone to scan it.

While AI is great, it’s not foolproof. If you need a business card scanner with 100% accuracy, check out HiHello. Unlike other scanner apps, HiHello has a team of human-verifiers to make sure the information is transcribed correctly, before it's added to your contacts.‍

A Letter From An Entrepreneur: Lisa Slook

If you are, or are aspiring to be, an entrepreneur I know you feel me here when I say, “Entrepreneurship is like riding a roller coaster.”  Sometimes you’re up.  Sometimes you’re down.  You may scream, get butterflies, throw your hands up and may even want to throw up (maybe sometimes do!).  All along the way is the thrill of the coaster.  The feeling of breaking free and doing something that isn’t for everyone.  But – You…Are...Doing..It. You are there, hanging in from the first climb, dip, and launch around a corner, into the first loop through the twists and turns to the end of the ride.  Some maybe can’t handle the launch and retreat to the deck, some only hang on for one ride, while others ride this roller coaster until the end of days.

Hi! I’m Lisa and I freaking LOVE rollercoasters!

I took my first leap of faith as an entrepreneur a few years ago.  I ventured out on my own with an idea after experiencing so much stress, frustration, and resentment in my day job.  After a big breath and a solid support system, I went for it, had faith, and jumped right in.  I fell forward.  HARD.  In my mind, I didn’t succeed and get to where I wanted to go. 

It takes more than just an idea to propel you forward.

So I dusted myself off, learned a lot along the way, and went back to a “real” job.  Don’t get me wrong, I still love the people I worked with but there was always an underlying pull of – this is really not what I should be doing.  Do you know why things didn’t work that first time around?  It wasn’t my purpose.  It was something I was good at — as I have a knack for explaining really complex things to others — but it wasn’t my purpose.

            My other half, Allan, and I decided 4 years ago that we wanted to find a space to help other entrepreneurs grow while we grew the Real Estate Brokerage. YES!  Now, this was my language! How many lives could we impact and change?  Spent three years finding the space to have a beautiful office that we could not only run the Brokerage through but could also expand opportunities for other entrepreneurs in our community. 

In 2020, we opened a coworking space, The Ant Space, powered by Atlas Red Realty in Sparks, Nevada.

Our purpose is to elevate others helping them achieve their goals and purpose.  We are on a mission to help those in our community with a product, idea, or service expand their opportunities and businesses. 

We provide the space, support, and tools necessary to launch and grow. From providing a business address to maintain the privacy of using your home address, to fully utilizing the space and connecting with others, networking, and maybe even birthing a new venture through those connections. 

Our space is community-driven, open to those with a passion that is ready to be unleashed. 

Future events are planned to draw the rest of the community in to explore the businesses of our members and discover artists by showcasing their work on our walls. 

We created the space for people to connect. This is the space we dreamed of.  We have a passion for service and are fulfilled when serving others.  We are the support structure under the coaster car.

I’m not going to sugarcoat it.  It took a huge leap of faith to take out a mortgage for an acre of land and 15,000 square feet of space to make this into a reality.  Who am I kidding – it still IS faith we are relying on to get us to the next step.  We have had setbacks, gains, celebrated, and shed some tears.  You see, we went on one of those roller coaster loops over the last year hanging tight to our harnesses. COVID shut us down just weeks after we opened. We have never had an opening day celebration for The Ant Space, or an open house for the Brokerage. Soon friends, soon. 

Not only do I still rely on faith and the knowing that we will be ok, but we know that what we have created IS needed as we come out of this pandemic – I am learning to “lean in” to myself too.  Sometimes, it’s really tough to hold strong, to hold onto that faith, and then I teeter.  Then, I grow. 

I think that truly has been the lesson of the COVID year.  It has been a year I used to “grow”. 

Grow strength, grow my mindset, grow my faith, grow my trust in myself.  We grew our faith in our strength as a couple too.  I needed to grow and become more open before I could truly help others succeed.  To be real here, to those still reading – thank you – you are part of the growth process.  I have stepped out of my comfort zone (seriously) and grown through this writing.    

We are still growing as a business and have a lot left that we want to implement in our space.  We thought we had tackled every twist, turn, and loop in our business plan.  HA!  Were we wrong!  And, you know what?  Being wrong helps you grow.

            So, if you think you aren’t “made” for the entrepreneurship roller coaster, maybe you’re wrong and just need to “lean in” to what makes you tick and what your passion is.  You need to grow.  Take that leap of faith, move off the deck and hop in a seat.  Come along for the ride and enjoy yourself because there isn’t anything else like it.  We will see you in the front of the coaster!

5 Tips For Designing A Logo

If you’re anything like me, you’ve tried making a logo from scratch one time or another. My issue is trying to decide whether to focus on the purpose or the appeal of the logo. Do I tell the audience what we do by saying it in the logo or do I want to share a message through the icon? If you’re having trouble with a similar issue, I have great news for you — In this post, I’ve outlined 5 tips that you can apply today to create a compelling and decisive logo.

Here is a link to a site that you can use to create a free logo: The Hoth

Before we jump in, let’s breakdown what a great logo looks like. Your logo doesn’t have to include any of these aspects, but consider this a blueprint to us creating a clean, clear, and creative logo.

The Characteristics of A Good Logo

It’s eye-catching

This goes without saying, but your logo should draw your audience in by being both creative and interesting.

It has meaning to the brand

Your logo is a symbol of your business that you put in the forefront, take this opportunity to add to your brand story by making sure that your logo means something to the business.

It’s memorable

If you are able to create a logo that your audience remembers, they will feel more comfortable making a purchase.

Always works well in different sizes

Your logo isn’t only used on a desktop, these days, your logo can be found on mobile devices, tablets, your tv, and so many other devices. Be sure that your logo works on all of these different platforms.

It’s unique and distinguishable

Be different! This is your opportunity to make a huge first impression on your audience, show them that you gave effort, and they will appreciate you for it.

What Are The Tips?

These tips are a rule of thumb for creating a logo that your audience will understand and appreciate:

1. Some logos work by being simple, don’t overthink it.

2. Use icons to give you flexibility with your logo size.

3. Use color to bring your logo to life:

   • A quick tip: Considering your audience in all of your decisions will help you best connect with them, especially with your first impression.

     • The color #33333 is a very dark grey that appears better to the human eye than a hard black.

     • Your logo should showcase your brand, your style, and your goals as a company.

4. Use clever double-meanings to bridge your brand to its identity.

   • This will help create a more memorable logo that resonates with your audience.

   • Hint: A trick to remembering something is to associate it with an emotion. It isn’t always easy, but being intentional with colors, shapes, and negative space can help your audience subconsciously connect with your brand.

5. Speaking of negative space, USE negative space to keep your logo front and center.

   Don’t add distractions to your logo, keep it clean and keep it simple. Logos with negative space are perfect when you need to adjust your logo size.

6. Bonus Tip: Be creative with your logo, you can always change it.

A Guide to Digital Business Cards in 2021

This article is reposted with permission from HiHello. The original blog post can be found here.

The way we connect with others is rapidly evolving. Perhaps the highly infectious coronavirus pandemic accelerated this, but an increasing reliance on technology as a way to interact with our peers was eventually inevitable. 

Because of the push for remote-everything in 2020, remote work, online networking, and virtual events became common practice. With that, naturally came the need for a virtual way to exchange contact information. As we head into 2021—despite paper business cards being around for centuries—the act of exchanging one piece of paper for another (and placing it in your wallet, never to be seen again) is quickly becoming antiquated. In its place emerges a rising favorite: the digital business card.

What is a digital business card?

A digital business card (also known as virtual or electronic business cards) is an online means of sharing contact information. Digital business cards can be created on an iPhone, iPad, Android, or computer, and are oftentimes more affordable than their paper counterparts. Like typical business cards, electronic business cards can be customized, designed, and shared with anyone. There are no space constraints with digital cards—you can add as much or as little information to your card as you’d like. In addition to your normal contact information (like your name, company, email, and phone number) you can enrich your card with a photo or video, a logo, social media profiles, and more. 

Examples of different types of digital business cards.

How do digital business cards work?

There are several digital business card apps out there, and you’ll need to find the one that works the best for you. We recommend HiHello—HiHello is a free digital business card, business card scanner, and contact manager app. HiHello lets you make multiple digital business cards with different information on each card, so you can have a card for your work contacts, one for clients or customers, and one for your friends. Unlike other business card apps, with HiHello you can share your card with anyone, even if they don’t have the app. 
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Create different business cards to use in different settings.

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What are the benefits of digital business cards?

There are several reasons why virtual business cards are the way to go. Here are a few benefits of going digital.

Convenience 

As long as you have access to your phone or computer, you’ll always have your digital business cards on hand. Because everything is electronic, you’ll never need to worry if your card supply is low and if you need to order more. Digital cards are also extremely flexible. Did you switch jobs, get a new phone number, or simply make a typo? That can be a costly mistake with paper cards. Digital business cards allow you edit to your cards at any time, so they are always up-to-date with your latest contact information.

‍Eco-friendly

Let’s admit it—paper business cards aren’t the most environmentally conscious way to exchange contact information. Did you know that over 90% of business cards are thrown away within one week of receiving them? Talk about wasted paper! If everyone switched from paper to electronic cards, over seven million trees would be saved each year. 

Affordable

Digital business cards are often more affordable than their paper counterparts. (In HiHello’s case, they’re free!) There’s no need to pay hundreds of dollars a year on paper cards that are going to get thrown away almost immediately—save that money and reallocate it to another aspect of your business, like your marketing budget.

If you are interested in a premium business card experience, many apps allow for upgrades. HiHello offers multiple subscription plans for individuals with premium features like custom URLs, colors, QR codes, and more. HiHello for Business is a great and affordable digital business card platform for teams and organizations who are looking to make the switch from paper to digital.

Contactless

With online meetings and virtual events becoming the new norm, virtual business cards are becoming a staple of everyday life. Digital cards can be shared with anyone, anywhere—simply send the link over email, text, or social media. During a Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet video call, you can hold up your QR code, and anyone in attendance can scan your code and will have instant access to your card. Even when in-person gatherings resume, digital business cards will stick around because they’re germ-free and no physical contact is required.

Digital business cards are contactless and can be sent to anyone, anywhere—no physical contact required.

Seamless follow-ups

When you receive a paper business card, what do you normally do with it? Most people will toss it in their purse or wallet, where it's forgotten and when found, almost immediately thrown out. When you share a digital business card, it doesn’t get lost in the oblivion of old receipts, gum wrappers, and hair ties. Digital business cards go directly into the receiver’s inbox, so your new contact can easily integrate it (and you!) into their workflow. Virtual cards make following up easier and more efficient, which in return can lead to fostering stronger connections.

How to make a digital business card

Making a digital business card is simple and can be done within minutes. First, you’ll need to download a digital business card app. Once you have the app on your iPhone or Android device you’re ready to get started with your first virtual card. With HiHello, you can also create a digital business card on your computer—simply create an account on (or log in to) the HiHello website and you’ll be able to make and edit your cards, as well as view your contacts.

‍Once you’re ready to create your first digital business card, use the following guides to help you get started:

• How to Make a Digital Business Card on iOS

• How to Make a Digital Business Card on Android

• How to Make a Digital Business Card on a Computer

What to include on a digital business card

You can put as much or as little information as you want on your digital business card, and you’ll never run out of space. (No more trying to pack in as much information as you can—while still trying to make it look somewhat presentable—on a 3.5x2 piece of paper!) 

When it comes to what exactly to put on a card, here are a few things that you should always include:

Name

On HiHello, you can add more than your first and last names. Add any prefixes or suffixes, as well as any accreditations, your preferred name (for example, a nickname or the name you go by professionally, like Dr. Jones), or a maiden name. You can also include your pronouns on your digital card, so people will know how to refer to you.

Title and company

If you’re currently employed, include your title and company name on your virtual card. If you are currently looking for a new role, check out our blog post, “8 Examples of Digital Business Cards for Jobseekers.”

Contact information

Include your preferred means of contact on your card, like your email, phone number, website, WhatsApp, or any other links.‍

Location

Unless your physical address is crucial to your business, adding a generic region is completely acceptable on business cards (for example, “San Francisco Bay Area” or “New York, New York”).

Picture or video

Adding a picture or video to your card is important—it will help connect the “name to face” for your contacts. Make your card even more memorable by opting for a live photo or video on your business card instead of a static picture! ‍

Logo

Add your company's logo to your business card! You can either upload your own from your files or Photos or—on HiHello—you can search for a logo directly within the app.

‍Easily find and add your company's logo to your digital business card.

Color 

Colors help your card stand out (plus, they look nice!). On HiHello, you can choose from any of the ten colors that come with the free app. If you want to choose a color that isn’t available, consider upgrading to HiHello Basic or HiHello Professional (for individuals) or HiHello Business (for teams). Premium accounts give you access to any color on the color wheel, and you can customize both the card design and buttons.

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How to put social media on your business card

If social media is relevant to your business, you should include it on your digital business card. Here are a few different options of social media accounts you can add, as well as a few tips and tricks.

Twitter

Most people are on Twitter these days. If you’re active on Twitter, adding your Twitter handle can help you grow your online following by including it on your virtual card.

Instagram

If you’re in the creative industry, including your Instagram account on your digital card could be a way to show off your portfolio to potential clients. 

Facebook

Adding your personal or company’s Facebook page to your business card can be a great way to stay engaged and connected with your audience.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is great to include on your card if you rely on it for your business, you're trying to grow your number of LinkedIn connections, or if you’re on the job market.

YouTube

If you have any video content to show off, place it in the YouTube field! On HiHello, if you want to embed the video in your card turn the “Feature” toggle on, and the video will appear at the bottom of your digital card. Featuring a video is a great way to further engage the people you meet. If you’re a realtor, perhaps consider adding a video of a virtual house tour. Working on pitching a new product? Include a marketing promo video on your card!

Example of a featured YouTube video on a virtual business card.

Snapchat and TikTok

If you’re a content creator, influencer, social media manager, or are simply making a digital business card to give to your friends, add a little spice to your card by adding your Snapchat and TikTok handles! As always, be mindful of your audience—only include these if they pertain to your business.

What else should I put on my business card?

GitHub

If you’re an engineer or developer, adding your Github to your card is a great way to show your work.

Yelp

If you’re a business owner, add the link to your Yelp page to your card. This can help drive traffic to your business, and can also encourage your clients or customers to leave five-star reviews!

Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, and Zelle

If your business accepts electronic payments, adding your Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, or Zelle to your card makes it easier for clients or customers to pay you on the spot, instead of them having to search around for your user name, email, or phone number.

Calendly

If you rely on Calendly for all your scheduling needs, you’re in luck—you can add your Calendly link to your business card! Anyone who taps on your Calendly link will be taken to your calendar, where they can schedule a meeting with you.

Skype

Virtual meetings aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Make it so people can easily give you a call by including your Skype handle on your digital business card. 

Twitch and Discord

Any streamers around? Include the link to your Twitch or Discord so people can watch your streams!

WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and WeChat

Various chat apps are popular in different countries. No matter where you live or which chat app you use, there’s a field for it on HiHello. 

Nintendo Switch, Xbox Live, PlayStation

Include your friend codes and gamer tags on your business card so people can easily connect with you on your favorite gaming consoles. Game on!

Dates

You can add birthdays and anniversaries to your cards underneath the “Date” field.

Notes

If there’s anything else you want to add to your card, you can write it in a note.

Examples of the different fields you can add to your digital business card.

How do I share my digital business card?

So your card is personalized and ready to be shared, now what? Sharing your digital business card is simple, and can be accomplished in seven different ways:

Share using a QR Code

Every HiHello digital business card has a unique QR code. If you’re networking with someone in-person and want to share your card with them, have them aim their phone’s camera at your QR code. Not in-person? You can also share your QR code over Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet—hold your code up to your computer's camera and have the other meeting attendee scan it with their phone's camera. When someone scans your code, your digital business card will appear on their phone, and from there they can save your card as a .VCF. Your code never expires, so if you save your business card’s QR code to your phone or computer, you can print it on any marketing collateral. When scanned, it will always link back to your digital business card.

If your brand is important to your business and a QR code is a primary way you want to share your business card, consider subscribing to HiHello Professional or HiHello Business. Both plans allow you to insert your logo into your QR code for optimal branding.

Text or email your business card

Text or email your digital business card from within your business card app! On HiHello you can double-tap your card to pull up the send screen, and then select “Email” or “Text.” You’ll be prompted to enter the recipient's name, email or phone number, and an optional message.  Please note that if you choose the text method, the recipient will receive a text from a HiHello number, not your number. If you want the recipient to have your phone number, make sure you include it in your business card, or in a message that goes along with the text you send from the app.

You can share your card using its QR code, or send via email or text message.

Send the link to your card

If you’re networking from a distance, you can share your digital business card by copying the link to your card, and then paste the link in an email, text message, social media post, and other means of communication.

If you plan on sending the link to your card often, you may want to think about upgrading to HiHello Professional or HiHello Business. With either plan, you can customize the link to your card.  The link will always begin with the prefix “hihello.me/hi/” but you can customize anything that goes after the “/.”

Share with people who are nearby

HiHello has a feature called Nearby, and it works similarly to Airdrop on iOS. If another HiHello user is near you, you can send them your digital business card—no QR code or link required.

Share using a virtual background

Online meetings aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Next time you’re on a Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet call for a networking event, a job interview, or a meeting with a potential customer, use a HiHello virtual background. Virtual backgrounds are great to use when networking online—they look professional, hide any background distractions, and keep your home private (and let’s face it—more and more people are working from home these days). When you create a virtual background, it’ll link to your digital business card and will show your QR code in the upper right corner. Anyone on the call can scan your QR code with their phone, and will be able to see your digital business card. 

Learn how to create and add a virtual background to Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet with the following guides:

• How to Create a HiHello Virtual Background for Zoom

• How to Change Your Zoom Virtual Background

• How to Add a Custom Background on Microsoft Teams

• How to Use a Virtual Background in Google Meet

Example of a HiHello virtual background for Zoom.

Use the HiHello widget

If you have an iPhone, you can share your business card with a widget. The HiHello widget for iOS 14 (or greater versions) will prominently display your card’s QR code, so anyone can scan your code right from your Home Screen. Learn how to set up the HiHello widget on iOS 14 or greater in the blog post, “How to Add the HiHello Widget on iOS 14.”

‍Share your digital business card from your Home Screen with the HiHello widget.

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Share your card with your email signature

On HiHello you can use your digital business card to create professional email signatures. With multiple templates to choose from, HiHello’s email signature generator will allow you to easily create an email signature that links to your business card. You can learn how to create an email signature in the blog post, “How to Create an Email Signature.”

Use HiHello's email signature generator to create a signature that links back to your business card.

Learn exactly how to share (and how to receive!) a digital business card with the following guides:

• How to Share Your HiHello Card

• How to Receive a Digital Business Card

• How to Exchange Digital Business Cards

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Get started with HiHello

HiHello is a free digital business card and contact manager app designed to help you curate and grow your network. If you’re ready to make the change from paper business cards to digital, sign up for HiHello for free on iOS, Android, or desktop.

Spotlight

“On behalf of our family, I want to send a huge thank you to Mel Chiri for her contribution to the platform. A pleasure to work with and a fantastic writer, we appreciate the opportunity to share some of your work.

Click the button below to read more from Mel and be sure to follow her on social media!”

— Malik

What should I charge?

Wondering how to price your products?

Today I’ll tell you what you need to price your products and services strategically. Read until the end and I will give you a strategy to apply today so that you can start setting better prices.

First, we need to define what price is? Your price is the amount of money you will accept in exchange for a product or service you offer. Each product or service has a price where the buyer receives what they want, and the company receives a profit.

The goal is to offer the customer the highest value for their dollar now. If there is a better value elsewhere that the buyer can wait for, you will have lost the sale. The price isn’t what truly matters in this scenario, but it is actually the value that matters the most.

Price vs Non-Price Competition

One of the first things a seller should do when deciding to price a product or service is to decide if they will compete on price alone or a combination of factors. When I was a young logistics broker, I found that if I could offer clients a bigger sense of relief, they would be more willing to pay my price. They valued knowing that their shipment was safe with a carrier that they knew and had a relationship with. I wasn’t convincing my clients that I had the lowest prices, instead, I focused on giving them the most peace of mind and stability.

So, what is non-price competition? This is a type of competition that is based on factors other than price that can include distinctive product quality, customer service, promotion, packaging, and any other feature that your product or service delivers.

For example, Chanel doesn’t price their products based on the cost to make their goods. They charge for their image and what it represents to the world. They market their products to individuals who appreciate and find value in their mission:

Chanel Mission Statement:

To be the Ultimate House of Luxury, defining style and creating desire, now and forever.

This makes the buyer feel as though they are buying into an exclusive tier/class of people, who appreciate this mission to define culture. These are compelling emotions that make buyers loyal and committed to the brand and what it represents. These buyers are more willing to pay a higher price because they feel more comfortable and relaxed with your brand. 

There are benefits to competing based on your price, as well. While this isn’t the best approach to earning business, this is an easy way to get a foot in the door with a big client or price-hunting customers. If you try this approach, it is important that you look for a way to offer a unique value to your customer. This will help prevent you from being blindsided by another product or service that is priced lower than yours.

5 Pricing Objectives

There are different goals behind choosing your price and these are your pricing objectives. You’ll need to price to make a profit, but you also can price for your organizational and marketing goals. If your goal as a company is to simply survive, then you will be more willing to take a loss to earn a customer. Your organizational goals are the why for your prices and these need to be clearly defined. Here are examples of each of the five pricing objectives:

1) Survival

In the transportation industry, it is normal practice for companies to take large losses in the beginning stages of a relationship with a client, with the hope that more business will come in the future. This is an example of the survival tactic in pricing, where a company will cut its price to attract customers, even if they will be operating at a loss.

2) Profit Maximization

Shoe companies are notorious for their use of cheap labor to make large volumes of high-cost items. While some of these companies operate on the right side of the moral compass, others will charge $100+ for a pair of shoes, that costs $8 to make. This is a way to maximize the return on a product (investment) and maximize the profit.

3) Target Return on Investment

If you own a record label and you decide to invest $10 million into a new album from Kanye, you will need to set a target amount of money that you want back from that investment. This amount would usually be in addition to the $10m that you invested. This goal is your Target Return on Investment, the price you set for products to reach your target return. 

4) Market Share Goals

A company’s market share is its ratio of total industry sales. Microsoft (Xbox) and Sony (PlayStation) are constantly fighting for market shares of the video gaming market. Each company is looking for an edge that would convince buyers to purchase their games over the other and this leads to aggressive pricing and other marketing efforts that help them gain shares of the market.

5) Status-Quo Pricing

Even though milk farms have similar products, oftentimes you see that their prices are also similar. These companies don’t focus on under-cutting one another, but instead, they price to be in line with the status quo. Pricing this way means that you are comfortable with the prices that are on the market for your product.

Conclusion

When you are deciding what to charge for your products or services, you need to have a clear understanding of your objectives for pricing. This will help you retain customers and offer the highest value for your product or service. Select your pricing objectives and define your pricing strategy. This is an area that many people question, and I hope you have found value in this walkthrough of my process that I have and continue to use. If you want more helpful information I have found on the topic of pricing, check out a few of the articles below.

Additional Sources

Why You Are Undercharging Clients

 Ultimate Guide to Pricing Strategies

 6 Hacks for Product Pricing