Why Branding Matters More Than Anything in Affiliate Marketing

bySimmbaKhan

83 followers

5 months ago

In a world full of noise, branding is what makes people stop scrolling and actually listen to you. It's not just about having a logo or a fancy colour scheme- it's about building recognition, trust and connection.

How is branding defined?

Branding is defined as how your audience perceives you - and more importantly, how you want them to perceive you.

Factors that audiences perceive brands on include:

• Your tone of voice.
• Visuals like colours, fonts and graphics.
• Core values.
• Story.
• Personality.
• Audience experience.

If I could describe branding in my POV - it would be a digital vibe and vibes convert.

Why Affliate Marketers Need A Brand.

When affiliate marketers in the industry say "this strategy isn't working out for me, I can't see any results based on the goals I set for myself", This because some (not all) SOME affiliate marketers use the failed copy and paste technique without giving their audience to trust them. You might be thinking, what does that mean?

It means that audiences aren't here to buy your product. They buy the personalities, perspectives and people.

Reasons why branding is your super power. Imagine yourself as a superhero using the right moves to give your brand a good name.

• You stand out in a sea of sameness: If you don't do a competitor audit or a competitor analysis and SWOT analysis on who your competitors are in the same industry as you. Chances are you will be the same as every brand in the market. For example, there are millions of self help websites, hundreds of fashion retailers like H&M and Zara with the same mission and vision for their brands. It is your job to be unique and stand out from the rest. Whether you are bringing humor or are using authentic storytelling methods for your brand.

• You build trust faster: A clear brand builds credibility. People are more likely to buy from someone who feels legit, aligned, and authentic.

• You attract the right audience: Your brand filters out the people who aren't for you and pulls in your tribe. Those that resonate with your vibe.

• You can charge more or monotize better: A brand isn't just about traffic, it's about positioning. With a solid brand , you can create offers, collabs or digital products that feel premium.

Case Studies: Well Known Brands and Their Perceptions from the eyes of the public.

Whether these brands are in the form of a carton of milk or a luxury handbag, people make instant judgements based on branding. These judgements influence whether they buy, follow or bounce.

Example 01: Zara

Picture Source: Pinterest

When people think of the brand Zara, the words that come into their mind are "trendy, fast, affordable runway fashion". Customers shop here because they want to look expensive without spending much.

Example 02: Chanel

Picture source: Pinterest

Customers that shop at stores that have Chanel products, or shop at the Chanel stores itself perceive the brand to be classy and wealthy. Customers at Chanel don't shop for clothes like Zara. The brand speaks volume of identity rather than materialistic goods.

Key Tip: If you are promoting a brand related to fashion, what image are you selling? Trendy budget finds, or aspirational elegance?

Dairy Industry.

Example 01: Amul (Indian Dairy Brand).

Picture Source: Pinterest

Customers, particularly South Asian customers perceive Amul as being "relatable, family-friendly and nostalgic". The Amul brand doesn't just sell dairy products like butter, milk and cheese, it sells trust due to the fact it gives customers the feeling of the brand being local, warmth and familiar.

Example 02: A2 Milk (Global brand)

Picture Source: Pinterest.

When customers think of A2 milk, they say that it is "scientific, clean and health first". The branding indicates that A2 milk is smarter, cleaner and better for your gut.

Key tip: Even a glass of milk can be branded with emotion (Amul), or innovation (A2) . What angle will you be choosing for your niche?

Tech Products.

Example 01: Apple

Picture source: Pinterest

What is the first word that comes to your mind when I say the word Apple? Probably red, juicy and crunchy? Well, what words come to your mind when I say the word Iphone? Is it premium, sleek and elite? Did you know, customers that purchase an Apple Iphone often describe it as professional and creative.

Example 02: Samsung (Samsung gang woo!!!!)

Picture Source: Pinterest.

Fun fact, this is actually the phone that I own and I am honestly so in love with it and I will never upgrade it because the colour is literally the most beautiful colour and is more beautiful in person. Okay, okay, as a Samsung girlie, I got carried away for my love of this phone. Anyway back to the discussion.

Customers (like yours truly), describe Samsung as a brand that is feature rich, powerful and reliable. Spot on! Because it is.

Key Tip: Are you like the Apple Iphone of your niche (premium and curated) or the Samsung (performance-first). I already know my answer, what is yours?

Creators and Personal Brands

Example 01: Emma Chamberlain

Picture Source: Pinterest

When people, particularly the Gen Z (like myself) market talks about Emma Chamberlain, they think of a relatable, cool Gen-Z girl that is effortlessly chic. When people describe her brand , it is described as if you are FaceTiming with a friend. Her vibe has helped her launch products, land collabs, and build an empire.

Example 02: Ali Abdaal

Picture Source: Pinterest

When people talk about Ali Abdaal, the words productivity, systems and self-improvement come to mind.

His brand is trusted by aspiring high-performers. His videos, emails and even his merch all scream clarity + efficiency.

Key Tip: If you ARE the BRAND, how do people describe you when you aren't in the room?

Conclusion

You can't control everything people say, but you can influence the conversation through consisent visuals, voice and values