We really love being able to share weekly blogs with you, especially when it comes to helping companies build up their brand identity, with logos and also online with websites and social media profiles. Every now and then we'd like to share our own company updates with you.

Today, I (Tanya), would like to share that  one of our articles, focused on branding, was published in Professional Woman's Multicultural Magazine. I am thrilled at the opportunity to have my work published in a magazine that genuinely cares about helping their readers grow in business.

I  had the pleasure of speaking at The Institute for Women Entrepreneurs of Orange County last night with colleagues Kelly Weppler and Stephanie Pottick. The subject matter was how to Market, Brand and Protect your business. Is 2012 the year you will focus on strengthening your brand? Yes? Great! Read on.

I'll share below some golden nuggets from our presentation beginning with Kelly and her strategies on marketing a business.

1. Strategy Before Tactics - Without tactics, it is the slowest route to victory.
2. Identify your Ideal Client - Do they value you? Do they refer you? Are they profitable?
3. Define Your Core Difference - Identify and communicate this. Stand out from the competition.
4. What People Really Buy - Your unique service/product. Your unique process. Your unique guarantee. A solution to a problem.

As we moved on, the next segment was finding out how to build a memorable brand. This is where Design Action Studios, jumped in and helped our audience shape their brand image. Please feel free to watch the YouTube video below as I walk you through each point or read on for a quick run down.

1. Branding is What People Think About Your Company
2. It's about Storytelling - Take the opportunity to educate and interact with your audience. Build that emotional connection. This is a reflection on your brand's values and goals.
3. Have a Brand Game Plan - Put your vision into your brand. Your vision and purpose must be clear, because without it there is no association between what you say and what you do.
4. Colors Matter - What emotions do you want to evoke from your audience?
5. It's Important to Deliver Your Brand Story Online - You build brand awareness. You are able to use the two-way communication channel to connect and educate your audience.
6. Determine Which Social Channel is Best for Your Brand - LinkedIn? YouTube? Podcasts? Once you know your target audience, it will be easier to select the best social media network for you.