Your brand isn’t just your logo—it’s how people feel when they come across your business.
You’ve got the passion, the product, maybe even a business name. You’re hyped to launch. But wait—is your brand actually ready?
In Nigeria’s fast-growing market, people don’t just buy products—they buy perception, trust, and connection.
And the harsh truth? Many startups kill their brand before it ever gets a chance to breathe.
Let’s break down the common mistakes killing your brand identity before launch—and how to fix them while there’s still time.
1. Confusing Branding with Logo Design
A sleek logo is nice—but it’s only 1% of your brand.
The Mistake:
You pay a graphic designer for a fine logo, but your tone, message, and story? Nonexistent.
The Fix:
Build your brand like a personality. Define:
- Your mission (what you’re here to do)
- Your voice (how you speak)
- Your values (what matters to you and your audience)
- Your vibe (how people feel after interacting with you)
Start with a clear brand strategy before chasing visuals.
2. No Clarity on Who You’re Serving
You can’t sell to “everybody.” And when you try, your brand loses its voice.
The Mistake:
Your content is vague. Your messaging is scattered. You’re speaking, but no one’s listening.
The Fix:
Define your ideal customer:
- Who are they?
- What problem are they facing?
- What do they need help with right now?
Speak their language. Be the solution they can actually relate to.
3. Inconsistent Visual Identity
Using five fonts, seven colours, and random Instagram filters is not a vibe—it’s confusion.
The Mistake:
Your branding changes every week based on trends or moods.
The Fix:
Pick 2-3 fonts, 2-3 colours, and stick to them. Use a simple Canva brand kit.
When your brand looks consistent, people remember you—and trust you faster.
4. Not Sharing Your Brand Story
In a sea of businesses, your story is your power.
The Mistake:
You skip the “why” behind your brand and go straight to “buy now.”
The Fix:
Tell people:
- Why you started
- What inspired the business
- What challenges you’re solving
- Why it matters to you
Authenticity connects. Don’t just market—humanize.
5. Launching Without a Brand Voice
If your brand tone is too stiff, too slangy, or all over the place, people get confused.
The Mistake:
One day you sound like a bank, the next day like a Twitter influencer.
The Fix:
Choose a tone that fits your audience:
- Friendly and relatable?
- Professional but warm?
- Bold and witty?
Once you find it—stick with it across captions, emails, and website copy.
6. Ignoring Digital Footprint Basics
If someone Googles your business and finds nothing, they’ll move on.
The Mistake:
You have no Google presence, incomplete social media bios, or broken links.
The Fix:
- Set up a Google Business profile
- Use keywords in your Instagram/Facebook bios
- Create a simple landing page (Linktree, Carrd, or Notion page works)
- Ensure your contact details are clear and clickable
Perception is digital now—own your space online.
