Ever been taken aback by a sudden change in a well-known brand’s name or logo? (Looking at you, Elon Musk and “X”). Rebranding can sometimes leave audiences puzzled, but when executed well, it can also breathe fresh life into an organization’s identity.
For nonprofits, the stakes are high when considering a rebrand. Altering your organization’s name, logo or mission statement can potentially be a game-changer, helping to overcome obstacles or revitalize an image. However, these changes can also backfire if implemented for the wrong reasons.
Let’s delve into the world of rebranding: exploring when it can be beneficial, and when a more subtle approach—like a shift in marketing strategy—might be in order.
First, let’s clarify what nonprofit rebranding means.
Marketing vs. branding.
Marketing consists of activities aimed at promoting an organization and achieving its objectives, such as digital advertising strategies or social media campaigns. Branding is all about how your audience perceives and identifies you. Your brand identity is made up of various elements like your name, logo, mission statement, website, color scheme, voice and personality. Modifying any of these elements constitutes a “rebrand.”
Why should nonprofits tread carefully with rebranding?
On one hand, adjusting aspects of your brand identity is a way to evolve, adapt to a changing marketplace or grow closer with your target audience.
But remember, audiences form expectations based on certain aspects of your organization, like your name and logo. People often resist change, and altering too much or the wrong element can jeopardize the connection with your established audience and the investment it took to build it.
So, when are the potential risks of a rebrand worth it? Let’s examine a few scenarios when rebranding might not be the best strategy:
In the wake of a PR crisis. A rebrand immediately following a public relations issue can seem like an attempt to sweep problems under the rug. A better approach might be to focus on damage control through marketing and messaging until the situation stabilizes.
If your visuals feel outdated. This situation might require minor updates, not necessarily a full refresh. Refreshing your website, logo and other identity elements can rejuvenate your marketing efforts when they’re in a slump.
Upon the arrival of new leadership with a new vision. Change is inevitable, but a complete overhaul to accommodate an enthusiastic new director is seldom necessary and often counterproductive. Marketing consistency is key! More subtle changes through less risky marketing tactics are probably a better bet.
So when should you consider rebranding?
There are instances when a rebrand is just what the doctor ordered—provided it’s done for the right reasons. History is full of successful rebranding stories, and your organization can be the next one. Here are some situations when a rebrand might be your best option.
Your organization has evolved into something different.
Nonprofits often start with a specific mission, only to morph into something entirely different. If your current brand doesn’t reflect your mission, a rebrand involving a new name, logo makeover, fresh mission statement or a mix of these might be in order. Your brand strategy should mirror not your past, but reflect your present.
Your current brand doesn’t encapsulate all you do.
If you’ve expanded your services, operations, geographical reach or started catering to a more diverse audience, your brand should keep pace. If your organization has outgrown your name, logo, mission, etc., it’s time to rebrand in a way that aligns with your new size and scope. Outgrowing your brand is a positive issue to have, and is one of the best reasons to rebrand.
Your brand is forgettable.
Successful brands are instantly recognizable. If your brand is forgettable—say, due to not having a consistent logo and design across the board—then a rebrand might be in order. This can help your organization become memorable and build loyalty. If you’re unsure, a branding agency can help you create a cohesive brand identity that truly reflects who you are.
People don’t understand what you do.
Upon seeing your name, reading your mission statement or spotting your logo, people should instantly understand who you are and what you do. If that’s not the case, consider rebranding ASAP. We live in an era of shrinking attention spans and fierce competition. People don’t want to work to understand you. The best brands have a simple but relevant logo, consistent colors and design, a compelling message and a clear mission. If these elements aren’t working together to create a robust brand for your organization, it’s probably time to initiate the rebranding process.
In conclusion
Rebranding is a significant move that can change how your organization is perceived and how it connects with your audience. It’s not a decision to rush into, but when done for the right reasons and executed well, it can invigorate your organization, making it more relevant, memorable and in sync with your mission and offerings. The secret to a successful rebrand is understanding how your organization has evolved, knowing what your audience needs and ensuring your brand accurately reflects who you are now.
