In the bustling landscape of Upstate New York, where businesses are as diverse as the seasons, one key factor remains constant: the power of effective branding and logo design. These elements have the potential to captivate audiences, forge lasting impressions, and set the stage for success. In this article, we embark on a journey through the world of branding and logo design strategies, exploring real success stories and gaining insights from industry experts.
The Art of Crafting Memorable Brands
Brands are more than just names and logos; they’re the embodiment of a company’s values, mission, and personality. Crafting a brand that resonates with the people of Upstate New York requires a deep understanding of the local culture and an ability to connect on a personal level.
Take, for example, the story of “Hudson Valley Harvest,” a local farm-to-table initiative that transformed into a regional sensation. By embracing a brand identity that celebrated the bounties of the Hudson Valley, they tapped into the pride Upstate New Yorkers feel for their communities. This authenticity allowed them to cultivate a loyal customer base that shares their values.
The Psychology of Logo Design
A logo speaks volumes in a single glance. It’s a visual representation of your brand’s essence. But designing a logo isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about psychology, symbolism, and leaving a lasting impression.
Consider the success of “Adirondack Adventures,” an outdoor adventure company that etched its identity in the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Their logo, a majestic mountain peak merging with a serene lake, evokes the spirit of exploration and tranquility unique to the Adirondack region. This design resonates with those seeking an escape into nature’s embrace.
Expert Insights from Upstate’s Finest
To gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of branding and logo design in Upstate New York, we turned to Gino Broccolo, the visionary CEO of “ninety two,” a prominent branding agency in Rochester, New York. Gino’s agency has left an indelible mark on the Upstate landscape, helping businesses carve their niches with distinctive branding.
According to Gino, “In Upstate New York, authenticity is paramount. Our communities value businesses that embrace their roots and contribute positively. Crafting a brand that embodies these principles is what sets the stage for success.”
Unveiling Winning Strategies
As you delve into the world of branding and logo design strategies, keep in mind that winning over Upstate New York requires a mix of creativity, local insight, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Here are a few key takeaways:
Embrace Local Flavor: Infuse your brand with elements that resonate with Upstate’s unique identity.
Tell Compelling Stories: Craft narratives that reflect the journeys and aspirations of your brand.
Simplicity Speaks Volumes: A well-designed logo doesn’t need to be overly complex; it needs to be memorable.
Connect with the Community: Engage with local events, causes, and conversations to become an integral part of the community fabric.
Branding and logo design are not just artistic endeavors; they’re strategic decisions that can make or break a business in Upstate New York. By understanding the local pulse, weaving compelling stories, and capturing the essence of the region in your branding, you’ll have the keys to unlock success in this vibrant landscape.
So, whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or an established business, remember that Upstate New York rewards those who dare to be authentic, who embrace their roots, and who create brands that resonate on a deeply personal level.
If you’re ready to elevate your brand to new heights, remember the lessons learned from Upstate’s own success stories, and take the plunge into a world where branding isn’t just about recognition—it’s about creating a lasting legacy.
In the competitive landscape of the construction industry, standing out and establishing a strong brand identity can be a game-changer. When combined with a well-designed website, exceptional branding can empower construction companies to achieve remarkable growth and success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of elevating construction companies through top-notch branding and website design. From understanding the core principles of branding to optimizing your online presence, this article is your ultimate resource.
Introduction
The Significance of Branding and Website Design in Construction
In the fast-paced world of construction, where projects tower and timelines are tight, it’s easy to overlook the power of branding and website design. However, these elements are not just about aesthetics; they can significantly impact a construction company’s growth trajectory. Effective branding establishes credibility and recognition, while a well-designed website serves as a virtual showroom, showcasing the company’s expertise and portfolio. It’s like constructing a solid foundation for your business’s skyscraper of success.
Meet the Author: Gino Broccolo, CEO of ninety two
Hey there, I’m Gino Broccolo, the mastermind behind ninety two, a trailblazing branding agency in the heart of Rochester, NY. With a passion for propelling businesses to new heights, I’ve helped numerous construction companies build their brands from the ground up. From blueprints to branding, we’ve got your back!
Building a Robust Brand Identity
Defining Your Brand’s Vision and Values
Just like a construction project needs a blueprint, your brand needs a clear vision and strong values. Are you all about sustainable building practices? Or do you pride yourself on delivering projects ahead of schedule? Defining these core aspects not only guides your branding but also resonates with your target audience, fostering trust and loyalty.
Crafting a Memorable Brand Name and Logo
Imagine your brand name and logo as the cornerstone of your identity. A memorable name coupled with an eye-catching logo can make your company unforgettable. Think “BuildScape” with a logo depicting a skyline formed by construction tools. Instant recognition? You got it!
Creating a Consistent Brand Voice and Tone
Consistency is key in construction, and it’s no different in branding. Whether it’s your website, social media posts, or marketing materials, maintaining a consistent brand voice and tone is essential. Are you casual and approachable or formal and professional? Let your communication style reflect your company’s personality.
The Art of Compelling Storytelling
Narrating Your Construction Company’s Journey
Every construction project has a story—from the first blueprint sketch to the final brick laid. Sharing your company’s journey through captivating storytelling humanizes your brand. Did you overcome challenges in a complex project? Share the tale! Your audience will connect with the authenticity.
Incorporating Client Testimonials and Success Stories
Client testimonials are like glowing online reviews, and they’re pure gold for branding. When your clients share their positive experiences, it builds credibility and trust. Imagine potential clients scrolling through your website, reading about how you turned their dreams into concrete realities. That’s a trust-builder!
Translating Complex Projects into Engaging Narratives
Let’s face it—construction jargon can be as puzzling as a maze. But that’s where your storytelling prowess comes in. Break down intricate projects into easily digestible stories. Take that massive commercial skyscraper project; explain how it went from steel beams to a bustling hub of commerce.
Designing an Impactful Website
Strategizing User-Centric Website Navigation
A user-friendly website is like a well-structured construction site—easy to navigate and understand. Intuitive menus, clear categories, and a robust search feature make finding information a breeze. Remember, a confused visitor is like a lost contractor—neither is good for business!
Utilizing Visual Elements to Showcase Projects
A picture speaks a thousand words, especially in construction. High-quality images and videos of your projects showcase your skills better than any text. Imagine a gallery displaying your best work, from residential renovations to skyscraper constructions. It’s a visual testament to your expertise.
Incorporating Interactive Features and Virtual Tours
Want to wow potential clients? Offer them a virtual tour of your past projects. Interactive elements like 360-degree views and walkthroughs put them in the driver’s seat, exploring your work firsthand. It’s like letting them wear the hard hat and swing the virtual hammer!
SEO and Online Visibility for Construction Brands
Leveraging Keywords for Construction Industry SEO
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is like laying the foundation for your website’s visibility. Incorporating industry-specific keywords—like “commercial construction,” “residential remodeling,” and “concrete foundations”—ensures that your website ranks high in relevant searches. Think of it as using the right tools for the right job.
Creating High-Quality, Informative Content
Content is the cornerstone of your online presence. Informative blog posts, articles, and guides not only educate your audience but also establish your authority in the field. Whether it’s a step-by-step guide to sustainable building practices or a breakdown of construction materials, valuable content attracts and retains visitors.
Optimizing Website Speed and Mobile Responsiveness
Speed matters in construction—and online. A slow-loading website is like a delayed project—frustrating and disappointing. Ensure your website is optimized for speed, especially on mobile devices. Mobile-responsive design guarantees that potential clients can explore your site seamlessly, no matter the device.
Expert Tips: Enhancing SEO to Attract Potential Clients
Take a page from the construction handbook and build strong SEO foundations. Incorporate local keywords to target clients in your area. Consider creating location-specific landing pages for different cities you operate in. It’s like setting up satellite construction sites to reach more clients.
Engagement and Conversion Strategies
Implementing Live Chat and Customer Support
Just as construction projects require communication, your website should facilitate instant communication. Live chat features offer real-time assistance, answering queries and guiding potential clients through their decision-making process. It’s like having a foreman on-site, ready to address concerns.
Offering Downloadable Resources and Guides
Become a valuable resource for your audience by offering downloadable guides, eBooks, and resources. Imagine providing a comprehensive guide on navigating the building permit process or a checklist for planning a successful renovation. By helping clients even before they become clients, you’re establishing trust.
Integrating Calls-to-Action for Lead Generation
A call-to-action (CTA) is like a blueprint for guiding visitors toward desired actions. Whether it’s “Get a Quote,” “Schedule a Consultation,” or “Request a Callback,” CTAs drive lead generation. Strategically place them throughout your website to convert curious visitors into potential clients.
Measuring Success and Scaling Up
Tracking Brand Engagement and Website Analytics
Just as you track project progress, monitor your brand’s online progress. Tools like Google Analytics provide insights into user behavior, popular pages, and conversion rates. By understanding how visitors interact with your website, you can fine-tune your strategies for optimal results.
A/B Testing for Continuous Improvement
Construction involves trial and error, and so does website optimization. A/B testing involves creating two versions of a webpage—like testing different headlines or CTAs—and comparing their performance. It’s like testing different construction materials to find the most durable and efficient option.
Expanding Your Brand’s Reach and Services
Once you’ve mastered branding and website design, don’t stop there. Explore opportunities to expand your brand’s reach and services. Consider branching into related sectors like architecture, interior design, or project management. Think of it as adding new wings to your construction empire.
FAQs
Q1: How long does it take to establish a solid brand identity for a construction company? A1: Building a strong brand identity is a process that takes time. It involves defining your vision, values, and voice, which can take a few months. However, consistent efforts will yield lasting results.
Q2: Can a construction company with a limited budget still invest in branding and website design? A2: Absolutely! Branding doesn’t have to break the bank. Focus on key elements like a memorable logo, a clear website layout, and engaging content. As your company grows, you can invest more in your brand’s evolution.
Q3: How often should I update my construction company’s website? A3: Regular updates are essential to keep your website relevant and functional. Aim for at least quarterly updates, including adding recent project showcases, updating content, and ensuring all links and features are working smoothly.
Q4: What’s the role of social media in construction company branding? A4: Social media provides a platform to showcase your projects, engage with clients, and share industry insights. It’s a fantastic way to humanize your brand and connect with your audience on a more personal level.
Q5: Can I apply these branding strategies to my personal construction projects as well? A5: Absolutely! The principles of branding and effective website design can be applied to both your company and personal projects. Whether you’re constructing buildings or your personal brand, these strategies can help you stand out.
Elevating construction companies through exceptional branding and website design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about establishing a memorable identity, sharing compelling stories, engaging with your audience, and achieving remarkable growth. By harnessing the power of branding and combining it with a user-friendly website, you’ll not only transform your construction company’s online presence but also carve a path to success in an increasingly competitive industry.
In today’s competitive business landscape, branding plays a pivotal role in establishing a strong identity, building customer loyalty, and driving business growth. Whether you’re a small startup or an established company, the power of branding cannot be underestimated. A well-crafted brand strategy not only differentiates you from competitors but also resonates with your target audience, creating a sense of trust and familiarity. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of branding, exploring its importance, strategies, and how to harness its potential for your business.
The Essence of Branding
At its core, branding goes beyond mere visuals and logos. It encompasses the emotional connection and perception that consumers have towards your business. A successful brand communicates your values, mission, and unique selling proposition. It’s the promise you make to your customers and the experience they can expect. Effective branding not only attracts customers but also fosters a sense of loyalty and advocacy.
The Building Blocks of a Strong Brand
Defining Your Brand Identity
Your brand identity is the foundation of your branding strategy. It involves defining your brand’s personality, values, and voice. What does your brand stand for? What emotions do you want to evoke in your customers? Answering these questions helps shape a cohesive brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
Creating a Memorable Logo
A logo is the visual representation of your brand. It’s the first thing customers notice and associate with your business. A well-designed logo captures your brand’s essence and leaves a lasting impression. Consider iconic logos like Apple’s bitten apple or Nike’s swoosh – they are simple yet instantly recognizable.
Crafting a Compelling Brand Story
A brand story humanizes your business, making it relatable to consumers. Share the journey of how your brand came to be, your challenges, and triumphs. A compelling narrative helps customers connect emotionally with your brand, fostering a sense of authenticity.
Consistency Across Touchpoints
Consistency is key in branding. Whether it’s your website, social media, packaging, or customer service, maintaining a consistent look, feel, and tone reinforces your brand identity. This coherence builds trust and recognition among your audience.
Engaging Visual and Verbal Communication
Effective branding involves both visual and verbal elements. Engaging visuals, such as color schemes and typography, evoke specific emotions. Likewise, a distinct brand voice in your communication – whether it’s formal, friendly, or humorous – helps in establishing a consistent brand personality.
Strategies for Successful Branding
Understanding Your Audience
To create a brand that resonates, it’s crucial to understand your target audience. Conduct thorough research to identify their needs, preferences, and pain points. Tailor your branding strategy to address these aspects and create a meaningful connection.
Differentiation in a Competitive Market
In a crowded marketplace, setting your brand apart is essential. Differentiation involves highlighting what makes your brand unique. It could be innovative products, exceptional customer service, or a commitment to sustainability. Communicate these differentiators clearly to attract the right audience.
Embracing Storytelling in Marketing
Storytelling is a powerful tool in branding. Craft compelling narratives in your marketing campaigns that draw customers in. Stories create an emotional connection, making your brand memorable and relatable.
Leveraging Social Media for Brand Building
Social media platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for brand exposure. Create engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Interact with followers, respond to comments, and use social media to showcase your brand’s personality.
Building Brand Advocacy
Satisfied customers can become your brand’s most effective advocates. Encourage user-generated content, such as reviews and testimonials. A positive word-of-mouth reputation can significantly impact brand perception.
FAQs about Branding
Q: How can I ensure my branding efforts align with my business goals?
A: Start by clearly defining your business goals and values. Your branding strategy should reflect these core aspects and resonate with your target audience.
Q: Is branding only relevant for consumer-facing businesses?
A: No, branding is essential for all types of businesses. B2B companies, non-profits, and even individuals can benefit from effective branding strategies.
Q: How often should I revisit and adjust my branding strategy?
A: Revisit your branding strategy whenever there are significant changes in your business, industry trends, or target audience preferences. Adaptation is key to staying relevant.
Q: What role does storytelling play in branding?
A: Storytelling humanizes your brand, making it relatable and memorable. A well-crafted brand story can create emotional connections with your audience.
Q: Can branding help my business during challenging times?
A: Absolutely. A strong brand can foster customer loyalty and trust, which are crucial during challenging periods. It can help your business weather uncertainties more effectively.
Q: How can I measure the success of my branding efforts?
A: Track metrics like brand recognition, customer loyalty, and engagement across different channels. Monitoring these indicators can help gauge the effectiveness of your branding strategy.
In the dynamic world of business, branding serves as a guiding light, steering your business towards success. By carefully crafting your brand identity, communicating your values, and resonating with your audience, you can create a brand that stands the test of time. Whether you’re a CEO like Gino Broccolo looking to enhance your agency’s reputation or a budding entrepreneur starting from scratch, the principles of branding remain the same: authenticity, consistency, and customer-centricity. Unlock the power of branding, and watch your business thrive.
In today’s competitive business landscape, branding plays a pivotal role in establishing a strong identity, building customer loyalty, and driving business growth. Whether you’re a small startup or an established company, the power of branding cannot be underestimated. A well-crafted brand strategy not only differentiates you from competitors but also resonates with your target audience, creating a sense of trust and familiarity. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of branding, exploring its importance, strategies, and how to harness its potential for your business.
The Essence of Branding
At its core, branding goes beyond mere visuals and logos. It encompasses the emotional connection and perception that consumers have towards your business. A successful brand communicates your values, mission, and unique selling proposition. It’s the promise you make to your customers and the experience they can expect. Effective branding not only attracts customers but also fosters a sense of loyalty and advocacy.
The Building Blocks of a Strong Brand
Defining Your Brand Identity
Your brand identity is the foundation of your branding strategy. It involves defining your brand’s personality, values, and voice. What does your brand stand for? What emotions do you want to evoke in your customers? Answering these questions helps shape a cohesive brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
Creating a Memorable Logo
A logo is the visual representation of your brand. It’s the first thing customers notice and associate with your business. A well-designed logo captures your brand’s essence and leaves a lasting impression. Consider iconic logos like Apple’s bitten apple or Nike’s swoosh – they are simple yet instantly recognizable.
Crafting a Compelling Brand Story
A brand story humanizes your business, making it relatable to consumers. Share the journey of how your brand came to be, your challenges, and triumphs. A compelling narrative helps customers connect emotionally with your brand, fostering a sense of authenticity.
Consistency Across Touchpoints
Consistency is key in branding. Whether it’s your website, social media, packaging, or customer service, maintaining a consistent look, feel, and tone reinforces your brand identity. This coherence builds trust and recognition among your audience.
Engaging Visual and Verbal Communication
Effective branding involves both visual and verbal elements. Engaging visuals, such as color schemes and typography, evoke specific emotions. Likewise, a distinct brand voice in your communication – whether it’s formal, friendly, or humorous – helps in establishing a consistent brand personality.
Strategies for Successful Branding
Understanding Your Audience
To create a brand that resonates, it’s crucial to understand your target audience. Conduct thorough research to identify their needs, preferences, and pain points. Tailor your branding strategy to address these aspects and create a meaningful connection.
Differentiation in a Competitive Market
In a crowded marketplace, setting your brand apart is essential. Differentiation involves highlighting what makes your brand unique. It could be innovative products, exceptional customer service, or a commitment to sustainability. Communicate these differentiators clearly to attract the right audience.
Embracing Storytelling in Marketing
Storytelling is a powerful tool in branding. Craft compelling narratives in your marketing campaigns that draw customers in. Stories create an emotional connection, making your brand memorable and relatable.
Leveraging Social Media for Brand Building
Social media platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for brand exposure. Create engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Interact with followers, respond to comments, and use social media to showcase your brand’s personality.
Building Brand Advocacy
Satisfied customers can become your brand’s most effective advocates. Encourage user-generated content, such as reviews and testimonials. A positive word-of-mouth reputation can significantly impact brand perception.
FAQs about Branding
Q: How can I ensure my branding efforts align with my business goals?
A: Start by clearly defining your business goals and values. Your branding strategy should reflect these core aspects and resonate with your target audience.
Q: Is branding only relevant for consumer-facing businesses?
A: No, branding is essential for all types of businesses. B2B companies, non-profits, and even individuals can benefit from effective branding strategies.
Q: How often should I revisit and adjust my branding strategy?
A: Revisit your branding strategy whenever there are significant changes in your business, industry trends, or target audience preferences. Adaptation is key to staying relevant.
Q: What role does storytelling play in branding?
A: Storytelling humanizes your brand, making it relatable and memorable. A well-crafted brand story can create emotional connections with your audience.
Q: Can branding help my business during challenging times?
A: Absolutely. A strong brand can foster customer loyalty and trust, which are crucial during challenging periods. It can help your business weather uncertainties more effectively.
Q: How can I measure the success of my branding efforts?
A: Track metrics like brand recognition, customer loyalty, and engagement across different channels. Monitoring these indicators can help gauge the effectiveness of your branding strategy.
In the dynamic world of business, branding serves as a guiding light, steering your business towards success. By carefully crafting your brand identity, communicating your values, and resonating with your audience, you can create a brand that stands the test of time. Whether you’re a CEO like Gino Broccolo looking to enhance your agency’s reputation or a budding entrepreneur starting from scratch, the principles of branding remain the same: authenticity, consistency, and customer-centricity. Unlock the power of branding, and watch your business thrive.
In the competitive landscape of Upstate New York, a strong brand is crucial for standing out from the crowd and capturing the attention of your target audience. When it comes to branding expertise, look no further than ninety two–the number one branding agency in Upstate NY. With a proven track record of helping businesses elevate their brand identities, ninety two is your partner in creating a lasting impression and achieving brand success.
The Power of Branding
In today’s business environment, branding plays a vital role in shaping the perception of a company. It influences customer loyalty, sets businesses apart from their competition, and creates a strong foundation for future growth. This holds especially true for businesses in Upstate NY, where competition is fierce across various industries.
To overcome these challenges, businesses in Upstate NY need to establish a compelling and differentiated brand. This is where ninety two, the number one branding agency in the region, steps in. By leveraging their expertise, businesses can effectively communicate their unique value proposition and establish a strong brand presence.
Introducing ninety two–Your Branding Partner
At the forefront of branding agencies in Upstate NY stands ninety two. With years of experience and a proven track record, they have earned the reputation of being the go-to agency for elevating brands. Their team of branding experts understands the local market dynamics and has successfully collaborated with businesses across the region.
At ninety two, the focus is on forging deep connections with clients. They take the time to understand the goals, values, and vision of each business they work with, enabling them to create tailored branding strategies that resonate with the target audience and drive results.
Services Offered by ninety two
When it comes to comprehensive branding services, ninety two leaves no stone unturned. Their range of services includes brand audits, brand strategy development, brand implementation, logo design, web design, web development, marketing as well as ongoing maintenance services.
A brand audit by ninety two delves into every aspect of your brand, assessing its strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This evaluation forms the foundation for crafting a powerful brand strategy that aligns with your business objectives. With a clear strategy in place, ninety two helps bring your brand to life through meticulous implementation across various touch points.
Their talented team of designers create visually stunning logos that capture the essence of your brand, leaving a memorable impression on your target audience. Moreover, their web design and development services ensure that your online presence is modern, user-friendly, and aligned with your brand identity. Along with this they provide top tier service and help maintain and update your website as an ongoing service. To top it off, ninety two provides digital marketing expertise, enabling businesses to effectively reach and engage their target audience.
How Branding Can Increase Revenue
A strong and cohesive brand has the power to significantly impact a company’s revenue. Effective branding strategies can contribute to increased sales, customer loyalty, and market differentiation. Let’s explore how branding can drive revenue growth:
Brand Recognition and Awareness:
Consistent branding builds recognition and awareness among your target audience. When customers are familiar with your brand, they are more likely to choose your products or services over competitors. According to an article on Forbes by Melissa Houston, consistent branding can 10x your revenue by establishing a memorable presence that attracts and retains customers. You can read the full article here: [How Branding Can 10x Your Revenue and Save You Time]
Trust and Reputation:
Branding helps build trust and credibility with your audience. A strong brand that consistently delivers on its promises creates a positive reputation in the market. Customers are more likely to choose a brand they trust, which can lead to increased sales and customer retention. The article by Marcom.com emphasizes that brand recognition helps raise awareness, which in turn drives sales and customer loyalty. You can find the article here.
Differentiation and Competitive Advantage:
In a competitive marketplace, branding provides a unique identity that sets your business apart from competitors. A well-defined brand positioning and messaging strategy can effectively communicate your unique value proposition to potential customers. By consistently delivering a distinct brand experience, you can differentiate yourself from others and gain a competitive advantage. The article on Advertising Week discusses why brand consistency should be a top priority and how it contributes to revenue growth. You can read the article here.
With the number one branding agency in Upstate NY, ninety two, by your side, you can unlock the true potential of your brand. Their comprehensive services, ranging from brand audits and strategy development to logo design, web design, web development, and marketing, ensure that your brand stands out, resonates with your target audience, and drives revenue growth.
Don’t underestimate the power of branding. As highlighted by the provided articles, effective branding can 10x your revenue, build trust and loyalty, and differentiate your business from competitors. Embrace the expertise of ninety two and embark on a branding journey that will propel your business to new heights in Upstate NY.
Contact ninety two today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can elevate your brand and drive revenue growth. Remember, your brand has the potential to make a significant impact. Let ninety two help you unlock that potential and achieve remarkable results in Upstate New York and beyond.
Sportyish: a unique social media site dedicated to bringing sports-related updates in a very simplified, comprehensible way. To the average sports fan, understanding a sporting event is second nature, as they grew up following sports for the majority of their life. However, for novice sports fans it’s the opposite. Tuning into this social media channel can demystify anything sports-related, and hopefully help those rookie fans determine the difference between a home run and a touchdown. The account, @sporty_ish, was created in March 2018, shortly before March Madness began.
“We thought this was the perfect time to capitalize on a sporting event that everyone will be talking about, but can be confusing as well. We broke down the tournament in layman’s terms, for the casual fan. This way, you can jump into and participate in any conversation.”
The creators of Sportyish, Kelsea Schagrin, and Sierra Kiarsis developed the idea with the intent to connect with individuals organically using social media. They found that Instagram worked best for how they envisioned pushing their content. With the ability to use Instagram stories, this allowed them to engage with many people at once. Both being from major cities, they were immediately immersed in sports culture from a young age. “We are two females born and raised in major sports cities (New York City and Philadelphia) who happen to have that sports-obsessed superfan partner who never shut the hell up about the game, the stats, the history…blah…blah…blah. Sportyish was born out of our interest in sports, but our desire to consume it in a way that didn’t exist. We half-listened to our boyfriend and husband go on and on about last night’s game, but just wished he would get to the point! Who won? What was the big play? What’s everyone going to be talking about at work tomorrow? That’s it! We realized this didn’t exist, so we created it! We love sports, but we were casual fans. We thought there would be a big market for men and women who just want sports presented in an interesting and funny way, and there was.”
Understanding sports can be a daunting task for the newcomer. However, following along on this channel will make sporting events less of a guessing game. This can be very crucial for those water cooler conversations at the office. Hearing these discussions between co-workers can feel overwhelming, especially if someone is not well-versed in the topic. Think of how Joey Tribianni felt in Friends. Having little to no knowledge of sports can be a feeling quite similar to FOMO (fear of missing out) when everyone is talking sports and you have no clue what is going on. No need to sit on the sidelines anymore though, these girls got your back! Schagrin and Kiarsis are dead set on building a platform that broadcasts all sports news and information which can be broken down into layman’s terms.
“We try to bridge the gap between knowing the blood type of the Eagles quarterback with what basketball player Kendall Jenner is spotted with. We write about what’s happening right now to keep people in-the-know. We also break down confusing rules, plays, situations and all the gossip that may be too intimidating and boring to read about on ESPN.”
Schagrin, who majored in sports media at Ithaca College, found her love for writing and comedy which she implements into the Sportyish brand. Kiarsis, who studied studio art and earned her Masters of Art at Manhattanville College, complements Schagrins’ writing with her ability to create compelling visuals for the account. They find this balance works well when creating content for the platform. Also, having a passion for sports is what drives them to make the most engaging content they possibly can. Their target demographic allows them the ability to speak as human beings, and not abide by corporate “rules.” Finding themselves walking on eggshells in the beginning, they soon realized that they didn’t have to stick to the status quo.
“Early on, we found ourselves trying to censor our posts or cleaning up our language, but that ain’t us! Our followers like who we are because we’re unfiltered. We talk and write exactly how we speak and that is why we’ve seen success.”
Sportyish is a growing platform that Schagrin and Kiarsis hope to build into a household name. As they are still in the early stages, their hope is to expand into different outlets such as a website, app, and a podcast in order to make the ease of sports knowledge even easier. While learning more about what they do, we at ninety two even started to realize how awesome it is to have a place we can go catch up on everything sports. As creatives, it can be hard to catch events when we are plugging away on projects into the wee hours of the night. We definitely tune in and utilize the Sportyish channel as an avenue to make us look like we’re at the “top of our game”–especially with fellow sports fans.
“Our goal with Sportyish, when we started, was to create a place on Instagram that could become someone’s “little black book.” We want to be the notecard in your pocket that has the winner of last night’s game, the big event coming up or the name of the player who just married the Real Housewife of Beverly Hills. We wanted to help make sports more accessible to men and women who want to be in the loop, but don’t really give that much of a shit about the details. We hope one day we can create a website, an app, a podcast, and continue to grow!”