If you’re cooking up a new business and wondering "what is a logo?”, then you’re in the right place.
In this article, we explore the meaning of a logo, why your business needs one, what makes a great one, and how to make one!
We’ve kept things simple because who even has time to read these days, right?
Stick with us for the essential info and tools that you need to make a perfect logo.
So, what is a logo?
A simple logo definition is a symbol or a design used to represent a brand, a business, or company. Kind of like a branded stamp.
But the meaning of a logo goes much deeper.
Logos are an essential part of marketing for any business. They are powerful symbols that play a crucial role in establishing a professional and memorable brand identity and creating lasting connections with your customers.
Why are logos important for your business?
Curious about why logos are a big deal for a business? Here are a few reasons why:
- The beginning of something big: Your logo is a crucial element in making your business feel real. It signals to the world (and yourself) that your dream business is coming to life, just as you imagined.
- Brand identity: Your logo is your brand’s visual signature placed proudly on all marketing media. A strong logo will encapsulate your brand’s ‘vibe’ through simple yet powerful design, establishing your brand identity and cementing the memory of your brand into customers’ minds… forever!
- Stand out: In a crowded marketplace, standing out is vital. Your logo differentiates your brand from its competitors, making it easier for customers to identify and choose your much-loved brand over others.
- Be consistent: Your logo ensures consistency when it comes to brand aesthetics or the ‘look and feel’ of your brand. This aesthetic is based on your brand’s personality, and your great logo should convey this.
- Gain personality: Can a brand have a personality? It can, and it should! Your brand’s personality must inform the design elements in your logo - such as color, typography, and imagery. Whether your brand is seen as progressive, traditional, playful, or serious is greatly communicated through your logo. Your logo sets the tone and influences buying decisions from the get-go.
Ready to make your own logo now? Try out our logo maker and get going!
What are the elements of a logo?
It’s time to jump into the specific features of a winning logo. Let’s break it down.
Colors
What colors will your logo be? And did you know that color psychology is a thing! It is believed that different colors can evoke specific emotions in people, having a direct effect on their behavior. When it comes to logos, this is a great trick to have up your sleeve.
For example, the color blue can convey trust and professionalism. You will notice that many financial institutions use the color blue in their branding.
Red can evoke excitement and energy—or panic! It's not a great color for a financial institution, but it's good for a bold brand that wants to get your attention.
You can explore more about color psychology and how to apply this to your logo in GoDaddy’s Brand Identity Guide.
Typography
Typography in your logo is not just about the font you choose; it’s about the design and arrangement of your text. But choosing the right font is a super important step.
Is your brand sleek and modern, or bold and unapologetic? The font you choose says it all. You might find yourself falling in love with fonts when you start to play around with them. The right font can speak volumes.
Images
If you choose to incorporate an image in your logo, the goal is for the image to communicate what your brand is about, practically and emotionally. Whether it’s an abstract symbol or a literal reflection of the product or service you offer, your chosen image should communicate your brand’s essence. The number one rule is to keep it simple.
Taglines
Taglines are your brand’s mic drop moment. They’re the short and snappy phrases that stick in your audience’s mind and sum up your brand’s whole vibe in a few words. When done right, a tagline isn’t just a phrase—it’s your brand’s battle cry.
Where can you use a logo?
Where can you use a logo? The better question is: where can’t you? Your logo is the face of your brand. Once you’ve got it, you can smack it proudly onto ALL your marketing media.
Your website
Your website isn’t complete without your logo front and center. It’s the first thing visitors see, and it sets the tone for everything else. Don’t hide it in the corner—give it prime real estate and let it shine.
Your social media
From profile pictures to social posts, videos and anything else you choose to share, your logo should be working the crowd on every social platform. Popping it neatly in the corner of your posts is a great way to not make your content look ‘over branded’.
Your business cards
These might be old school, but what is a business card without a logo? That’s just a missed opportunity. Whether you’re networking or just making a good impression, your logo on a business card is a must. Business cards will never die!
Your merchandise
Slap that logo on everything from T-shirts to tote bags. Branded merch turns your logo into a walking billboard, and who doesn’t love a little free advertising (or free merch!)
Your packaging
Create logo stickers or wrapping paper with your logo marked all over it. It’s your business and you’re the boss. So have fun! And just make sure your logo is on your packaging.
Your email
Every email you send is a chance to remind people who you are. Add your logo to your email signature, and turn every sign-off into a brand-building moment. It will make your business go from ‘messing around’ to ‘legit’ - just like that!
6 things that make a good logo
A great logo achieves the following:
- It’s simple and clear. The best logos are straightforward and easy to understand. There’s no need to make your customers solve a puzzle with your logo.
- It’s adaptable to different media platforms. Whether on your website, a coffee cup, or your business card, a logo must be versatile enough to exist impactfully on all your marketing media.
- The design is balanced and in proportion. Balance in a logo design is key when creating a winning logo.
- Colors and typography are aligned with the brand personality. Your choice of colors and fonts should reflect your brand’s identity.
- It’s timeless. Don’t be too trendy! A great logo transcends fads, remaining effective and relevant for years to come.
- The design can be scaled to any size. A logo should be scalable, maintaining its clarity whether it’s on a tiny app icon or a large storefront sign.
Create a logo that stands out
Now that we've covered “what is a logo,” we hope you’re feeling inspired to get your creative juices flowing!
Here’s a simple summary of how to make a logo:
- Let your brand personality inform your logo design
- Keep it simple
- Choose the right colors
- Pick a font that reflects your brand personality
- Ensure versatility
- Create balance and harmony in your design
- Be relevant but not ‘trendy’
- Focus on professional execution
Ready to create a logo of your very own? Give our logo maker a spin!
What’s next
So, what is a logo when it comes to your small business?
Creating a logo is a vital step in your entrepreneurial journey. Your logo is an essential component in your business brand strategy, influencing everything from recognition and loyalty to competitive advantage and marketing effectiveness.
Curious about creating your own logo? Check out our full guide on this topic. Or, if you're ready to dive in, try the GoDaddy Logo Maker. Just tell us a bit about your business and your style, and we'll whip up a logo for you in just a few minutes.
