Creating a character for a company or brand 

Creating a character for a company or brand is a powerful strategy that can help humanize your brand, create an emotional connection with your audience, and make your company more memorable. Here are some steps and tips for developing an effective character:

Steps to Create a Character for Your Brand

1. Define the Character’s Objectives

   • Purpose: What role will the character play in your brand? It could be a brand ambassador, a mascot that engages followers, or a character that explains products and services.

   • Target Audience: Who will the character be aimed at? Consider the age, interests, and needs of your audience.

2. Establish the Character’s Personality

   • Traits: What is the character like? It could be fun, serious, friendly, mysterious, etc.

   • Values: Ensure the character’s values align with those of your brand.

   • Backstory: Creating a small backstory can help give depth and authenticity to the character.

3. Design the Character’s Appearance

   • Visual Style: Decide whether the character will be realistic, cartoonish, minimalist, etc. The appearance should be consistent with your brand’s visual identity.

   • Colors: Use colors that represent your brand and are appealing to your audience.

4. Develop the Character’s Voice

   • Tone and Language: The way the character communicates should reflect their personality and be consistent with the brand’s tone.

   • Communication Channels: Define where and how the character will appear (social media, website, videos, etc.).

5. Create Content with the Character

   • Stories and Situations: Use the character to tell stories that resonate with your audience.

   • Audience Interaction: Have the character interact with the brand’s followers, respond to comments, and participate in campaigns.

Successful Examples

• M&M’s Characters

  • Brand: M&M’s

  • Description: The colorful M&M’s characters, each with their own personality, have helped make the brand fun and relatable. The characters participate in advertising campaigns, social media, and events, creating a strong brand presence.

• Ronald McDonald

  • Brand: McDonald’s

  • Description: Ronald McDonald, the friendly clown from McDonald’s, is one of the most iconic characters in advertising history. He has been used to promote the brand and its family values, as well as for philanthropic activities through Ronald McDonald House Charities.

• Tony the Tiger

  • Brand: Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes

  • Description: Tony the Tiger is known for his catchphrase "They’re grrreat!" and his athletic, friendly appearance. This character has been a symbol of the brand for decades, promoting a positive and energetic image.

• The Michelin Man (Bibendum)

  • Brand: Michelin

  • Description: Bibendum, commonly known as the Michelin Man, is a figure made of tires. He has been the symbol of Michelin for over a century, representing quality and safety in tires.

• The Energizer Bunny

  • Brand: Energizer

  • Description: The Energizer Bunny is a pink rabbit who plays a drum and keeps going and going. He represents the durability and long-lasting power of Energizer batteries. His image has been effective in conveying the brand’s main message.

• Colonel Sanders

  • Brand: KFC

  • Description: Colonel Sanders, the founder of KFC, has become an icon of the brand. His image is used in the logo, advertising, and restaurants, reinforcing the brand’s authenticity and tradition.

• Mr. Peanut

  • Brand: Planters

  • Description: Mr. Peanut, with his monocle and top hat, has been the face of Planters for over a century. His elegant and sophisticated design has helped position the brand as a premium option in the nut market.

Final Tips

• Consistency: Keep the character’s personality, appearance, and voice consistent across all touchpoints.

• Feedback: Listen to your audience and adjust the character based on their reactions and feedback.

• Evolution: Allow the character to evolve over time to stay relevant and fresh.

Creating a character can be a powerful tool for strengthening your brand’s identity and building a lasting connection with your audience.