photo: Annie Leibovitz
A STAR ISN’T JUST BORN, IT’S BUILT.
Ever heard of Stephanie Germanotta? Maybe.
Ever heard of Lady Gaga? Definitely!
Guess what…they are one and the same. Lady Gaga’s wild success story is not just the result of her incredible song and dance talent, but also a tale of branding. While she may have been born a star, her star power was systemically built. Gaga leveraged her character from the stage, social media and the big screen to fiercely break out from the crowd and carve a niche for herself all while connecting emotionally to develop a genuine bond with her audience (loyal clients that flock to theaters and buy her albums.) That is the power of a star brand!
“Don't you ever let a soul in the world tell you that you can't be exactly who you are.” – Lady Gaga
So, how do you build a Gaga star-power brand? Well, let’s start with grasping what a brand is and what it isn’t… A brand is essentially the well-defined soul of your business, not just a sleek logo or trendy website. It’s the full Mother Monster that includes your brand voice, cohesive visual style and a clear understanding of your ideal client coming together to form your unique position in your industry.
Butterflies in your stomach wondering "Is my business ready to become a brand? Am I ready to take that leap?” The answer is HELL YES! Put on your “Poker Face,” step out on stage and make that “Money Honey!” Here are seven signs you are ready to headline your brand in your industry.
7 SIGNS TO KNOW
YOU’RE READY TO
TAKE CENTER STAGE
1. YOU’VE BEEN HUSTLING FOR 5-10 YEARS (OR MORE)
You’ve pounded the pavement, been through the wringer and from that, you’ve made adjustments, established processes and have a general workflow in place (even if that means color-coded post-its on your desk). It’s been the “Perfect Illusion” but you’re ready for more.
2. YOUR BUSINESS IS PLATEAUING
The beginning of the ride was up and down, then there was a steep incline in business (which rocked!), and now it’s still all good, but it’s also all the same. If you’re feeling stuck on the carousel, it’s a good sign it’s time to sink your “Teeth” into a brand refresh and rise your star to a new level.
3. YOU L-O-V-E YOUR CLIENTS
The spark is real and your clients are “Dope!” They inspire you. You want to spend more time with them. And honestly, they keep asking you to do more stuff for them anyway so why not make it a win-win situation? (read: sell clients more services and products.)
4. YOU’RE O-V-E-R YOUR CLIENTS
“Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe.” Your clients are draining you and the spark has flickered out. Feeling underwhelmed by inquiries and disenchanting leads, you’re definitely ready to find new clients. You desperately want to swipe right on the kind that recognize your amazing talents and make you feel badass again.
5. YOU’RE READY TO MAKE BANK
“Hello, Hello!” Charge. What. You’re. Worth. It’s time. You’ve put in the hours to learn your craft, honed your niche but still not charging what you know you’re worth. The trick is making sure your brand backs up your perceived worth with potential clients to support your pricing. Honestly, you could be only a few tweaks away from earning your dream income.
6. YOU ARE SICK OF BEING UNDERCUT BY THE UP & COMERS
It's bullsh*t. You’re wiser, better and not going anywhere. You’ve got killer systems, established clout and you’re in it to win it. It’s time to take a stand and refocus the spotlight on your business. You already have a “Million Reasons” for clients to book you, the next step is being sure your brand is up to date showcasing your services in a way that is undeniable. You think Gaga would let someone take her spot? Absolutely, not! It’s time to take it to the EDGE!
7. YOU’RE READY TO WORK “ON” YOUR BUSINESS NOT JUST “IN” YOUR BUSINESS
You’re the boss/the brains/the creative and you’re finally at a place where you can really embrace that. Your team is fab, your systems flow (mostly) and now you can take a step back, look at the bigger picture and do the top-level dreaming & decision-making to get there. Our businesses are a “Love Game” of give and take. Too often they just take, take, take our time and our energy but now is the moment for you to give yourself the business you truly earned and deserve. It’s easier than you may think...
Scored high on the list and asking what does it take to make your brand fierce AF? Answer: A solid foundation and a “Goody Goody” glam squad to help you shine. Editor’s Edge develops and defines your Brand’s Style and Voice with our customized guides. Supply your team with the internal tools required to present a cohesive image and voice. Together, we’ll systemically lay the groundwork to strengthen your brand, knock out the competition and attract your fan club. It’s "You and I", baby… We’re here for you. No judgments. Just mad support.
“JUST DANCE”
over to your screen of choice and
schedule a free brainstorming session on the “Telephone."
(…even better if you can get Beyoncé on the line too!)
📩