1. SPEAK CLEARLY
Just as an actor is valued by how they deliver their lines, your logo speaks too. When potential customers see your new brand they should get a glimpse at your worldview. Logos are more then a name: they establish the flavor of the company. Does your company speak like a Brad Pitt or a Steve Buscemi?
2. ENGAGE EMOTION
People are addicted to stories. Frame your logo in a way that shares a bit of who and what you are. Walk them through the parts that make this business unique. Excite new customers before you’ve even said a word.
3. CHALLENGE YOUR COMPETITION
If your competition uses black, you should use white. If they position themselves as a global leader, then you should be the neighborhood helper. If they preach, you should listen. When the contrast between companies is clear then they have to really think to make a decision.
4. THINK IN SILHOUETTES
Would your logo be recognizable in silhouette? The best logos are. The more we depend on make-up instead of relying on form, the more lipstick we put on our pig.
5. THINK TEN YEARS OUT
Change happens quickly. Owning an outdated brand can be a big burden for a small business. Accept that building a brand is a long journey made better by ignoring current business design trends.
BONUS RULE: FEAR KILLS GOOD IDEAS
The shortest path to a safe logo is caving into fear. Safe doesn’t inspire or lead. It lets others know immediately you didn’t have the guts to be yourself.