@fergellmurphy01

Branding Mistakes That Are Killing Your Credibility

Your brand is more than a logo. It’s the first impression, the voice, the trust factor—everything that shapes how customers feel about your business. But many brands unknowingly make mistakes that weaken their reputation, confuse customers, and lose sales. If your brand isn’t driving growth, one of these common mistakes might be holding you back. Let’s break down the top branding errors and how to fix them today.

Inconsistent Visual Identity

Does your logo look one way on your website and another on social media? Inconsistency causes confusion, low recognition and weak trust. Customers should instantly know it’s your brand wherever they see it.

Fix it:

Create a brand style guide that defines:

  1. Logo variations
  2. Font usage
  3. Color palette
  4. Iconography + layout rules

No Clear Message or Brand Voice

If customers can’t instantly tell:

  1. What you do
  2. Who you serve
  3. Why you’re different

…they move on

Fix it:

Clarify your voice and communication tone:

  1. Friendly, professional, luxury, playful?
  2. What problem do you solve?
  3. Why should customers choose you?

Your message must be consistent across all platforms.

Ignoring Online Presence

A strong brand doesn’t live only on a business card.

Big mistakes:

  1. Outdated website
  2. Low-quality graphics
  3. Inactive social media
  4. No SEO or digital strategy

Customers research you online first. If what they see doesn’t impress, they won’t trust you.

Fix it:

Treat your online presence as your main storefront.

Copying Competitors

Trying to look like everyone else guarantees you blend in. Even if the competitor is successful, you will always look second best.

Fix it:

Stand out by leaning into:

  1. Your brand personality
  2. Your story
  3. Your strengths
  4. What makes your approach unique
Branding Mistakes That Are Killing Your Credibility | Blog | FM_Portfolio