3. Think about the words you want people to use when defining your business.
Ask your employees, associates, and customers this question: When people hear our name, what images do you think come into their minds?
If everyone is saying the same thing — and if those words are the words you want associated with your name — you have a well-managed brand. If gaps occur, you have your brand-management work cut out for you.
List words that you want people to link to your business and be certain that you live up to that desired image. Then lead people to the right conclusions by presenting those characteristics — that brand image — consistently and repeatedly in your marketing communications.