The Visual Shift:

The landscape of how we work is changing. Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many people have felt the need to work in another way. Many people have discovered the need for fulfillment in their work and not just simply punching a clock. This discovery has led many people to start businesses and become the boss.

This post-COVID-19 era has been coined the “New Normal” with so many companies shifting from in-office work to allowing employees to work from home. This move is driven by both workers who want more flexibility and company-driven deviations, to include better work-life balance and cost effectiveness. It’s safe to say that the increase in contracting and freelance work continues to be a big factor in this change.

The Rise of the Gig Economy

The gig economy, with an emphasis on contract and freelance work, gives alternative ways to earn an income and work outside the normal 9-5 confines. The Gig Economy also plays a vital role in the shift in how we are now working. The Gig Economy is made up of independent workers, mostly contractors and freelancers who are hired for short-term gigs and or projects all handled via a digital app.

The creation and distribution of digital products is also part of the Gig Economy. The U.S. e-commerce sales increased by 8.7% increased by 8.7% in 2024. reaching almost $1.2 trillion, accounting for 16.2% of total retail sales. Experts anticipate sales to reach $1.29 trillion by the end of 2025. (I will break these numbers down by specific digital product category in my next post.)

Business Branding

A company’s brand identity carries the same weight as a person’s name. A strong brand helps a company distinguish itself from other similar companies. A compelling brand helps build relationships, which in turn build customer loyalty and trust. Building a successful brand isn’t only about the latest marketing trend or all about making sales, but most importantly, it’s about building relationships, loyalty, and trust. Get these three right, then the sales will come.

Earlier in this post, I talked about the rise in the Gig Economy, whether it’s freelancing, contracting, or online digital products, there will still be a need to distinguish your company’s brand from all the rest, especially when it comes to providing and offering digital products. Digital products seem to be on the rise lately, and your branding is what’s going to set you apart from all the noise. Yes, I call it noise. Everybody in the digital product space overpromises and underdelivers.

Business Branding is Multifaceted

A company’s branding is comprehensive and multi-layered, encompassing different elements, both visual and verbal communication, which work in sync to create an unforgettable brand identity. These elements form a unified and consistent customer experience, helping influence their perceptions, shaping their loyalty and trust in your brand.

Visual Elements

• Logo: The visual symbol that represents the brand.

• Color Palette: The specific colors used to convey brand personality and evoke emotions.

• Typography: The fonts used in brand communication reflect the brand's style and tone.

• Imagery: The images and visual style used to represent the brand's aesthetic.

• Visual Design: The overall visual style and consistency across all brand materials, ensuring a cohesive and recognizable brand experience.

Verbal Elements: Brand Name: The company's name should be memorable and reflect the brand's identity.

•Tagline or Slogan: A short, memorable phrase that encapsulates the brand's essence or message.

•The Tone of Voice: The consistent style and manner of communication used to convey the brand's personality and values.

•Messaging: The way the brand communicates its values, mission, and product/service information to the target audience.

Other Key Elements:

Brand Voice and Personality:

The brand’s communications must consistently convey a strong personality and emotional tone, enabling customers to forge meaningful connections with the brand.

Brand Values: Customer Experience; the customer experience is paramount, every interaction, from website navigation to customer service, must be seamless and positive.

Brand Culture:

A strong internal culture defined by shared values and beliefs shapes employee behavior and solidifies the brand image.

Brand Reputation:

The public perception of the brand is critical and is significantly influenced by customer experiences, media coverage, and other key factors.

Final Thoughts

As the way we work continues to evolve, so should the way we show up. Your brand visuals are your first impression- make it intentional.

Want graphics that capture your voice and elevate your brand presence? Head over to my template shop and explore collections made for modern, driven entrepreneurs.

Reference:

https://www.google.com/search?q=how+much+money+was+made+in+2024+with+selling+digital+products&sca_esv=45c8bf4228d081b3&rlz=1C1GCEB_enUS1108US1108&sxsrf=AE3TifPEKTGi9iaQElPxqOXkPC1IHEcwTw%3A1749750561139&udm=50&fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZ1Y6MJ25_tmWITc7uy4KIejIPgyyGM1YJJNz-u26A7UQjdzW_3QjQoz5M3kGxMbP-2YdUyEI1swjDCAqceDRq1j6wj7Ktrbgb_zOLOgNe585PdTPW5GSUzhWfmvWsq3Smgqh3tnErSnDYj3Hh2jlQyNh6_i9MuQ3v2k2BOF4_JlwSlVvtUPeCAV1heMLlKBMM6kQeHA&aep=1&ntc=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiNv5HluOyNAxUq78kDHbQGE1kQ2J8OegQIFRAC&biw=1920&bih=911&dpr=1&mstk=AUtExfAaAyOYwHAp7cMjrQ8NRO-KsB8UmCsoogiz5a4MA2CBIzRIgdDuU9hW9AFPWMtgAF5oYWtapy6jhkwcbxIvo_96yZgDAR-9fS7iIVeo01UmsWzK4sXCeD3v4xApxplE_IFkEsIxalLsr3MNiI_wiYF40grdUYmBZ1lfv9Tg8KLamRQSr0GR_sInSNUXpxEMqsvkOIFR03CXMOmsk63WFEH397VfnBJCd6IFUNHrHjBJW08d6uOLNvb1k-T3TjKo6aTOYkRdOhV_vq8p5iziVqytHhcF8yEUtwby0RhyTdJXnmSxqU2P-ygr_ZqrDGfrvMjklU-XXlL8TA&csuir=1