This is just a list of things I find myself constantly repeating to new clients throughout the years. I love when people come to me early for a consult to help avoid some mistakes others have made that cost them.

Picking a name dos and don’ts

1. Don’t make the name outrageously long

2. Do pick a name that is easy to pronounce, spell and read

3. Don’t change the spelling of common proper words… example Graphics to Graphix or Grafix

4. Do research domains and social tags before registering

5. Don’t spend a bunch of money before you check if you can register/trademarks/copyrights

6. Do get feedback on the name

7. Don't pick a name that could be limiting as your business grows

Logo Design dos and don’ts

1. Do make sure it’s legible

2. Don’t make it too detailed

3. Do make sure it can be transferred from a negative to a positive

4. Don’t use too many colours – preferred 2, max of 3

5. Do design multiple orientations – vertical and horizontal

6. Don’t be too literal or use photography in the logo

7. Do have a vector version and have the designer provide all formats along with rights

Branding dos and don’ts

1. Don’t think of your branding as just your logo

2. Do utilize your branding throughout including fonts, colours, imagery, filters & personality

3. Don’t underestimate the value of good design

4. Do create a branding guide for your team and maintain consistency

5. Don’t blindly follow the trends

6. Do combine online and offline channels into your branding materials

7. Don’t align yourself with the wrong influencers

Website dos and don’ts

1. Do pick a URL with your business name or as close to as possible

2. Don’t use dashes or underscores

3. Do secure multiple URL extensions especially the .com or .ca in Canada

4. Don’t use fonts that are hard to read… but to keep within your branding guide

5. Do utilize the SEO and meta information

6. Don’t use busy background graphics

7. Do use high-quality images and optimize them for your site.

8. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel – use reputable editors or have an expert create it for you

9. Do take your content seriously… a good website has both great design and great content

10. Don’t make users wait for content to load

11. Do keep your interface and navigation consistent

12. Don’t open internal links in new tabs

13. Do make your website responsive which means it works on all devices (computer, tablet, phone)

14. Don’t play background music or autoplay videos with music

15. Do test your site and have others do so

Social Media dos and don’ts

1. Do secure your business name extensions for the social platforms you want to utilize (it’s good practice to get the ones you don’t use as well… things may change)

2. Don’t create personal pages as your business – make sure you create business accounts

3. Do make the extension consistent throughout if possible

4. Don’t spam your friends or followers

5. Do post regularly

6. Don’t write in all CAPS for everything

7. Do prioritize your networks and match your content to the platform

8. Do interact with your audience

9. Don’t get offended easy or complain… handle criticism gracefully

10. Do watch your grammar and spelling

If you have any questions or need further explanation; don’t hesitate to reach out.