It’s critical to your marketing health.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a graphic designer is creating unique identities for companies. A logo is often the first thing people see, and it should leave a lasting impression on them. We at Flying Turtle Marketing often meet people who remember us as “the turtles.” They associate us with our logo—the flying turtle, of course!

What are some of the most-recognized logos in the world? Nike’s “swoosh,” Coca-Cola’s red-and-white script and McDonald’s golden “M.” While most of us don’t run multi-billion-dollar businesses, the same rule applies: We need to distinguish ourselves from the competition.

Whether you’re a lone ranger or a large corporation, a unique identity is key. Does your logo stand out in a stack of business cards? Does it represent you, your personality and your services? Or does it look like so many others in your industry?

If so, it’s time for a makeover. Strategic use of color and design elements can take your logo from bland to bold. A well-crafted logo catches the reader’s eye and separates you from the crowd. So stand out. Be unique. Be memorable. Become the Coca-Cola of your industry. There’s plenty of room at the top.