A man came to an important meeting dressed in shirt and tie. The tie had Mickey Mouse on it. Just as the meeting was to start his manager looked at him and said, "This isn't a Mickey Mouse operation. Go change your tie." I thought that was a little harsh but he drilled home a point. Our appearance makes a big difference, especially in the first impression.
Your chosen web site logo says a lot about you. If a logo has Mickey Mouse on it then potential clients will interpret "Mickey Mouse Company". If the logo brands a company then it needs to look like a company logo. If it brands a last name then it needs to be professional and show value in the name.
Corporate companies spend millions on logo selection and branding. As professionals we should spend something too...at least time. Can you picture the Chevron logo in your mind? How about Microsoft? and Disneyland? Now, how about a professional's logo? Whose can you remember? They spend a great deal of money to ensure many impressions a year. So, what will make you stand out as your web site draws traffic? Will your logo help you?
Determine what it is you are selling. What is required to sell your product or service? trust? professionalism? competence?
Now, determine what other successful people have done to sell the same thing. What image do they portray on their site? what visual allows them to accomplish their goals?
Finally, add your style to the mix and you'll find you have a great presentation. It takes work to build an image which is what marketing is all about. Spend the time up front to get it right and you'll waste a lot less down the road wondering why your site won't convert.
Here are some sites with lists of successful logos. See if you can get some cool ideas.
Many professionals use their face as their logo. Or they find some font for their name and go with that. Make sure that if your face or your name are your logos that they stand out in a positive way. Get some reviews on your logo presentation and you'll get a great idea of what people really think when they visit your site. If you spend the time and effort in a great presentation, in the end you will see more business.
