6 Tips on Brand-Building from the ‘Original Influencer’ Martha Stewart
In 1982, Martha Stewart made her entrance onto the mass-market stage with the publication of her book, Entertaining. She has since gone on to write 99 more, not to mention becoming the first female self-made billionaire in American history when she took Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (MSLO) public in 1999. Widely considered to be the original influencer, Martha Stewart has set the standard for lifestyle branding and business success. Here are 6 invaluable tips on brand-building that we can learn from the iconic Martha Stewart:
- Authenticity is Key: Martha Stewart’s brand is built on authenticity. She lives and breathes her brand, showcasing a genuine passion for homemaking, cooking, gardening, and crafts. By staying true to her interests and values, she has cultivated a loyal following that trusts her recommendations and advice.
- Consistent Branding: Consistency is crucial in brand-building, and Martha Stewart is the epitome of this. From her impeccable taste to her attention to detail, every aspect of her brand exudes consistency. Whether it’s her TV shows, magazines, products, or social media presence, Martha Stewart’s brand identity remains unwavering.
- Quality Over Quantity: Despite the vast array of products and content bearing her name, Martha Stewart never compromises on quality. Her brand is synonymous with premium, well-crafted goods and reliable, expert information. By prioritizing quality over quantity, she has established trust and credibility with consumers.
- Engage with Your Audience: Martha Stewart actively engages with her audience, whether it’s through social media interactions, responding to fan mail, or hosting events. By fostering a personal connection with her followers, she has built a community around her brand, creating a sense of belonging and loyalty among her fans.
- Adapt to Trends: While Martha Stewart is known for her timeless style and classic approach to homemaking, she is not afraid to embrace new trends and technologies. From launching her own line of CBD products to partnering with meal kit services, she stays relevant by adapting to the changing landscape of consumer preferences.
- Diversification is Key: Martha Stewart’s brand empire spans across various industries, including media, merchandising, and endorsements. By diversifying her business ventures, she has created a robust and resilient brand that is not overly reliant on one revenue stream. This diversification has allowed her brand to weather economic storms and stay agile in a competitive market.
In conclusion, Martha Stewart’s success story serves as a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs and established brands looking to elevate their brand-building strategies. By embodying authenticity, consistency, quality, audience engagement, adaptability, and diversification, businesses can learn valuable lessons from the ‘original influencer’ herself.
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