Why Choosing the Right Brand Strategist Matters
A strong brand isn’t just about a great logo or a catchy tagline… It’s about strategy. A skilled brand strategist helps you craft a clear, compelling brand that drives recognition, trust, and business growth. But what exactly does a brand strategist do?
Learn more about this role here.
How to Get It Right 1st Time
Not all brand strategists are created equal. The wrong fit can leave you with vague messaging, wasted time, and a brand that doesn’t truly represent you.
So, how do you ensure you’re hiring the right expert for your needs? Below, I’ll walk you through exactly how to choose a brand strategist that fits your goals. Plus! 7 key questions to ask a brand strategist before hiring them.
Fancy asking me these same questions? Book a call now.
Step 1: Define Your Brand Goals First
Before you start searching for a brand strategist, get clear on what you need. Ask yourself:
✅ Are you launching a new brand or refreshing an existing one?
✅ Do you need help with positioning, messaging, or visual identity?
✅ Is your goal increased visibility, credibility, or conversions?
✅ Do you prefer hands-on guidance or a DIY-friendly framework?
Having clear answers to these questions will help you find a brand strategist whose expertise aligns with your vision.
Step 2: Look for a Brand Strategist with the Right Expertise for you
Brand strategists come in different flavours. Some specialise in corporate branding, while others focus on personal branding or niche industries. If you want to dive deeper into how they think and approach branding, check out Inside the Mind of a Brand Strategist.
Here’s what to look for:
✔️ Industry Experience – Have they worked with businesses like yours?
✔️ Proven Results – Can they showcase studies, testimonials, or before-and-after brand transformations?
✔️ Approach & Process – Do they offer a structured strategy, or do they wing it?
✔️ Compatibility – Does their communication style align with yours?
Step 3: 7 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Brand Strategist
To avoid hiring the wrong strategist, these 7 must-ask questions will help you vet your options effectively:
1. Can You Walk Me Through Your Branding Process?
A strong strategist should have a clear, structured approach to brand development. If they struggle to explain their process, that’s a red flag.
2. Do You Specialise in My Industry or Type of Business?
Branding is not one-size-fits-all. A strategist familiar with your field will understand the nuances of your audience and competition.
3. How Do You Measure Branding Success?
Good branding isn’t just about looking pretty. It should drive measurable results. Ask how they track growth in brand awareness, audience engagement, and business performance.
4. Can You Share Case Studies or Client Success Stories?
If they can’t provide real examples of transformations, be cautious. You want proof that they can deliver real impact. Visit my Case Studies pages here.
5. What’s Included in Your Branding Package?
Some strategists offer strategy only, while others provide visual identity, content guidance, and marketing assets. Make sure you’re getting what you actually need.
6. Tell Me About Your Pricing & Timeline?
Brand strategy is an investment. Get clear on costs upfront, and beware of ‘too good to be true’ pricing. Cheap branding often leads to expensive mistakes later.
7. Will We Work Together One-on-One or Through a Team?
Some strategists handle everything personally, while others delegate to a team. If direct collaboration is important to you, clarify this early.
Step 4: Assess Compatibility & Chemistry
Even if a strategist is highly skilled, they need to be the right fit for your personality and work style. Consider likeability and intuition along with:
Listening
Do they listen and understand your vision?
Modality & Style
Are they collaborative or more directive?
Feelings Afterwards
Do you feel energised or overwhelmed after speaking with them?
Flexibility
Are they flexible, or do they use a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach?
A brand strategist isn’t just a service provider. They’re a strategic partner in shaping your business identity. Make sure you’re on the same page. The most successful partnerships are long-term relationships. If you get a feel of being ‘one and done’, it might not be the right type of service for you.
Step 5: Trust Your Instincts (But Do Your Research!)
At the end of the day, hiring a brand strategist is a big decision. Trust your gut, but also:
Read reviews & testimonials
Look beyond the testimonials on their website. Check LinkedIn recommendations or Google Reviews.
Request a discovery call
Many strategists offer free consultations. Take advantage of these to gauge fit.
Look at their own Branding
If their brand feels inconsistent or unclear, that’s a red flag.
Ready to Find the Right Brand Strategist for You?
Choosing the right brand strategist can be the difference between a brand that blends in and one that elevates your authority and impact. By following these steps and asking the 7 key questions, you’ll be well-equipped to find a strategist who aligns with your goals.
Do you need expert branding guidance tailored to you?
Book a Strategy Call to explore how we can craft a brand that truly represents you!
