Creating a Cohesive Online Identity: Tips for Consistency
26/01/2023Table of contents
Why Cohesive Online Identity is Important and How to Create It
In this day and age, having a cohesive online identity is an essential component to a successful business or personal brand. A cohesive online identity is created when the various aspects of a person’s or business’s online presence aligns and produces the same messages, look and feel. When a company or individual is able to project a unified identity across all platforms, they are able to build trust and credibility with their audience.
There are several tips to consider when creating a cohesive online identity.
1. Establish Your Brand & Tone
The first step to creating a cohesive online identity is understanding and establishing your brand. This evolution process should begin with developing and understanding your core values and mission. Once you have established your core values, then you should develop the type of content and messaging that best represent your company or brand. If you are an individual, this also applies to you, but include communicating other aspects of your life, such as hobbies, profession, and interests.
2. Choose Your Platforms
Once you have established your brand and determined the type of content you will post on your various platforms, then it is time to decide which platforms to use. This will largely depend on your target audience and the type of content you post.
The four most popular platforms for individuals and businesses are:
Of course, there are many other online platforms to choose from, but there is no need to overwhelm yourself. You can always start with these four and then add more if necessary.
3. Visual Consistency
One of the most important aspects of coherent branding is visual consistency. This includes things like desktop and mobile design, page layouts, logo, font style and colour scheme. Depending on your budget, you can hire a professional designer to help create a brand that aligns with your company or personal goals. Otherwise, with a bit of practice, you can create the look and feel you need with the help of the vast selection of plugins and design programs available.
4. Planning Your Content
Another tip for creating a cohesive online identity is to plan your content in advance. Planning your content ensures that all your posts are consistent and that each post is not too similar to the one before it. Scheduling your content is also another great way to keep your profile active and engaged. There are many content tools available online to help get you started such as HootSuite and Mention.
5. Engage with Your Audience
The final tip for creating a cohesive online identity is to engage with your audience. This is one of the most essential components to establishing a successful online presence. Engaging with your audience allows you to build trust and loyalty with them, as well as takes your brand from being just another face on the internet. There are many ways to engage with your audience on different platforms. For example, ask questions, write blog posts, run contests, and participate in hashtag campaigns.
Creating a cohesive online identity is essential for any business or individual looking to build a successful online presence. Keep in mind the five tips discussed: establish your brand and tone, choose your platforms, create visual consistency, plan your content, and engage with your audience. With the right approach and guidance, you can ensure that your online identity is unified, cohesive and successful.
