In every day marketing talk, people mention branding all the time. Let's face it you may be thinking of a brand as a substitute for a logo.
Simply creating a logo, isn't a brand or at least how we think of a brand in today's terms.
We should also mention here that there is a difference between a "brand" and a "brand name." When we think of a brand name, it is recognizing something as "non generic." It is established. It can be a status symbol, etc.
Brand refers to the perception customers have about that product or service. If you've watched Shark's Tank, you've even heard people say "lifestyle brand." This indicates a culture the product or brand implies. Its an attempt to embody the values, aspirations, interests, attitudes, or opinions of a group or a culture for marketing purposes. Lifestyle brands seek to inspire, guide, and motivate people, with the goal of their products contributing to the definition of the consumer's way of life.
How does this relate to you and why should you care?
Well, you maybe a Dentist and want teens to come to you to have the perfect smile to be popular and attractive. If they don't understand your brand, what's to distinguish you from their parent's dentist?
You maybe a construction company specializing in eco friendly home improvements, again this is very much about people looking for a brand they can believe in when wanting to help support the environment.
Simply put, EVERYONE can benefit from being their own brand with a story behind them, one prospects can buy into.
Pun intended ;)