Articles Tagged 'branding'
Hot WordPress Themes For Freelancers For Personal Branding
Jenna ScaglioneIn order to succeed as a freelancer and build a successful brand, website creation is paramount to displaying a professional image. WordPress makes it easy for freelancers to build beautiful, professional websites that are not only impressive to potential clients, but also easy to manage and customize. The right WordPress theme can make or break your website, so its important to choose one that is clear, concise, simple to navigate and overall generally pleasing to the visitor.
Beauty vs. Function: On Redesigning
Rean John UeharaThe thought of producing the best possible design, either from scratch or redesigning something, gives jitters to the heart of many designers. Even professionals in the field can't quite balance beauty and function. A few days ago I saw a comment here on 1stwebdesigner that says most of today's web designing is just like recycling old designs. That several years ago, when CSS was first introduced, people were really ecstatic to see “new” designs which were totally one-of-a-kind. With the rise of CMS like WordPress, Joomla, and others, there are already ready-made themes that, if I may say, are used by thousands of people. Nothing unique, nothing fancy. I am among those people who buy ready-made themes. Partly because I don't have the funds to hire a professional designer/developer to make me a website and half the reason is it's easier that way. I know, hold your pitchforks and listen first!
Injecting Personality in Your Web Designs
StephanieIf you want your websites to stand out from a sea of competitors, the easiest way to accomplish this is to give it a little personality. As web designers, we have the capability to tap into this human trait through well-conceived designs that forge an emotional connection with the visitor. How is this attribute achieved? In this article I will present ways you can inject personality into your web designs and create a memorable business solution for your client.
Mascots: Where Are They Heading?
Kalmer RautamMany companies use a virtual mascot or avatar to represent their product or service on the Web. At first glance it seems so simple, just follow the well-known guidelines and voilà, you have a cool mascot that keeps people engaged with your site. But is it really that easy? After doing some research I ended up noting that most of the popular mascots and avatars are of rather the same type – there is some personality but not much movement. That raised questions: How much room is there for development and why are mascots so popular?
Traits Every Small Business Website Should Have
There is always vast room for improvement with any website, and small business websites are no exception. With the phone book a communication tool of the past, establishing a solid online presence is at the forefront of a lot of small businesses. If you’re a small business owner, your website is a pivotal part of your marketing and branding, and shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s integral to not just focus on appearance – but usability – as this will play a major role in how long your customers stay around. In this article I will address the areas that factor into whether a small business website is ultimately successful or not. Pay careful attention to these areas in your next design for a small business, as they will reap benefits for your clients in the long run.
Two HUGE Myths of Setting Cheap Prices
Kendra GainesGoing into business as a web designer is tough. You may often see people glorify the life of a freelancer as a utopian life of beach trips, Apple products and lots of money. The truth is, when starting out, it isn't anything like that and takes years to accomplish that kind of success. I've been freelancing for about five years now and have gotten really serious about it in the past couple months and the part that I find the MOST challenging is the pricing. How do you know what to charge? Hourly or flat rate? What are the market prices? Once you find the answers to these questions, many things will begin to fall into place. I have noticed, however, there are two HUGE myths floating around the design business in regards to setting prices. The two myths are essentially the same, just with two different view points and arguments. What are they you ask?
7 Ways to Create Your Own Unique Style in Design
Let's be honest: the big secret to becoming a well-known and super successful designer is to have your own unique style. Sure you'll bag some clients by perusing tutorial sites, but when you really develop your own style, that's when you'll own the world! For some, this is fairly easy, but for some this is a tough task. Well 1WD has compiled a list for you so you can get started on creating your own unique style.
20 Great Examples of Compelling Headline Copy
In an age where web designers' websites are popping up everyday, creating a memorable brand experience is key. Through the use of compelling headlines and witty taglines, your brand can break through the clutter and be distinctly creative and unique. Generally, the most successful websites include headlines that support the website's goals and are simple and easy to remember. By creating a unique and fun headline and tagline, you're that much closer to separating yourself from the competition. You also pique the visitors' interest and encourage them to explore your website further.
Using Social Media To Establish Your Brand Online
Samar OwaisEveryone has a brand, including you. You’re a freelancer, that right there is the start of your brand. If you are involved in social media at any level, whether personal or professional, you have a brand. Think about it, every time you interact with someone or say something in public, you’re establishing your brand. Did you help someone out? You just established yourself as a helpful person and that adds to your brand. Do you complain a lot? You’ll become known as a whiner. Are you the go to guy in your field of work? That’ll add to your brand too.
Blogging For Effective Personal Branding
Rachel ArandillaThe evolution of blogging has been so dynamic since its birth in 1994. It started as an online diary, and then became how to manuals, and then a vehicle for the latest news and gossip. Now there are several types of blogs: personal blogs, political blogs, corporate blogs and more. Blogs have changed the whole scene of marketing, creating millions of opportunities to all people, and to both small and large businesses. I personally have several blogs for many reasons--personal and business uses to name a few. Why shouldn't we graphic designers bite a piece of that huge pie, too?
