NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR YOUR BRAND: 10 THINGS TO TRY IN 2011

By Shawn Parr, CEO of Bulldog Drummond (BulldogDrumond.com)

BE COURAGEOUS, OFTEN

Take bold steps to stand out from the crowd. Reflect on 2010 and look at what you did well, and what you could have done differently. Take courageous steps to help your brand stand out in 2011.

REVISIT AND REFINE YOUR PURPOSE

Take the time to look back at your mission and vision and ask if you were living it in 2010. Look for places to bring it to life with your team and explore whether you need to refine it. Remember: the words aren’t set in stone. If they’re not resonating, rewrite and revise!

SHUT UP AND LISTEN

Make sure you ask your team for feedback, ideas and suggestions. Listen to your consumers and pay attention to research.

FIND AN ENEMY

An enemy gives you and your team something to push against, something to challenge. An enemy inspires passion! This year, define a clear enemy and rally your team. It could be a competitor, a trend or an element of your internal culture. No matter what it is, create a plan to beat it, share the mission with your team and go forth!

STRETCH AND SET SOME BIG GOALS

Set at least one wild and audacious goal for 2011, something you’ve never tried before. Outline the goal, share it with your team and challenge them to play their part in achieving it. Just don’t forget to celebrate the small victories and successes on the journey.

BUILD A PASSIONATE AND ENGAGED TEAM

Your most valuable resource is your people. This year, weed out those don’t contribute and aren’t engaged. Replace them with active, passionate and energized people who will make a true difference to the rest of your team and your brand.

INJECT FUN INTO THE EVERYDAY

Start doing small things that make your employees happy. A monthly massage for a those who have put in extra hours or a weekly potluck for the team.

PLAN FOR LEARNING

Create a program that allows your team to take classes. Host a “learning lunch” monthly with guest speakers.

MAKE FRIENDS WITH OTHER BRANDS

This year, chart a “circle of love,” identifying brands with similar values that you’d like to partner with in 2011. Set one member of your team with a potential relationship and have them explore how to collaborate. You’ll be surprised by the results, even just the initial conversations you’ll have about your own brand.

SAY THANK YOU AND SHOW THAT YOU REALLY MEAN IT

And, lastly, do what your mother told you! Thanking people goes a long way to creating valued and appreciated fans, both internally and externally.

To view this article in it's entirety or to learn more about San Diego's branding guru Shawn Parr follow this link: http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jan/03/san-diego-branding-guru-knows-what-sells/