How to Create the Right Avatar for You and Your Brand

In contrast to corporate or business avatars, personal ones are simple: crop a photograph you like and that’s it. It doesn’t matter whether people like it or not. That avatar represents who you are, and since you don’t care about branding that much you don’t need to worry about what’s in that little picture that will be associated with your name in the social network you’re using. Besides, if you use social networking just for personal reasons, changing that avatar every now and then could be fun and it will also attract some attention from your followers.

Corporate avatars however are somehow more complicated. I always advise against using logos as avatars. They are cold and somehow insinuate that the ones using them are not there to communicate, but to sell.

People in social networks respond better to human faces than to iconic avatars. It’s in human nature to trust more the face behind a business than the business logo. Even more: statistics show that people tend to click more on banners depicting human faces than anything else. If this is true for banner advertising, then it is logically true for social networks, right? (See “The Five Golden Rules of Online Branding” – pdf)

So, what should you use as your avatar if your focus is not entirely personal? A company logo is a good branding tool, but on a social network, like Twitter for example, it’s simply inappropriate. When it comes to brands, the “consumers” simply prefer to know who they are talking to.

Womens Council of Realtors Twitter avatar. The ideal way to present yourself in a corporate branded avatar would be a combination of human face combined with corporate logo, but you have to do it right. For example, @WomensCouncil has a company avatar with human faces and a logo, but it still remains a mystery who the person behind Women’s Council Realtors is.

Faces and Logos – An Ideal Approach

Luckily there are some good examples of how to use a combination of human faces and logos to create a good, brand consistent and recognizable avatar.

First, , Gunnar Skeid, Gord Weisflock, David Pethrick, and Dot Design (who doesn’t have a name, but at least he has a face). There are surely many more, but it took me more than one hour to find even these, so if you find any, feel free to share them please. As for my own avatar… I had to change it today, so I wouldn’t appear hypocritical. :)

The moral of the story is: not many of the companies that make social profiles on various networks (I am not talking only Twitter here, I am merely using it as an example) know how to approach branding within social media. Traditional methods of displaying a logo and hoping for the best will not attract followers. People are tired of trusts and large corporations pitching them incessantly. If anything, they want to connect with real company staff members who are able to answer real questions, and in the case of Twitter, in real time. Somehow, no one can envision the Nike logo being animated or warm enough to engage a conversation or listen to a gripe.

Frequently Asked Questions on Branding Twitter Avatars

Why is it important to have a unique Twitter avatar for my brand?

A unique Twitter avatar is crucial for your brand as it helps in creating a distinct identity. It’s the first thing that users notice when they visit your profile. A unique and attractive avatar can grab the attention of users, making them more likely to engage with your content. It also helps in differentiating your brand from competitors and aids in establishing brand recognition.

How can I create a Twitter avatar that aligns with my brand identity?

To create a Twitter avatar that aligns with your brand identity, you need to consider your brand’s personality, values, and target audience. Use colors, fonts, and images that reflect your brand. If your brand is more formal, consider using a professional logo. If your brand is more casual, you might use a fun, colorful image. Remember, consistency is key in branding.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating a Twitter avatar?

Some common mistakes to avoid include using a generic or irrelevant image, using low-quality images, or frequently changing your avatar. These can confuse your audience and make it harder for them to recognize your brand. It’s also important to avoid using too much text or complex images that may not be clearly visible in the small avatar size.

How often should I change my Twitter avatar?

It’s generally recommended to keep your Twitter avatar consistent. Regular changes can confuse your followers and make it harder for them to recognize your brand. However, occasional updates can be beneficial to reflect a rebranding or a special event or campaign.

Can I use my personal photo as a Twitter avatar for my brand?

While it’s not uncommon for small businesses or personal brands to use a personal photo as a Twitter avatar, it’s important to consider how this aligns with your brand image. If you’re the face of your brand and your personal image is closely tied to your brand identity, this can be an effective strategy. However, for larger companies or those wanting to create a separate brand identity, a logo or other branded image may be more appropriate.

How can I optimize my Twitter avatar for visibility?

To optimize your Twitter avatar for visibility, ensure the image is clear and recognizable even at a small size. Use high-contrast colors and simple designs for better visibility. Also, make sure the image is centered and fits well within the circular avatar frame.

What role does a Twitter avatar play in avatar-based marketing?

In avatar-based marketing, your Twitter avatar acts as a visual representation of your brand. It can help in creating a connection with your audience, conveying your brand personality, and enhancing brand recall. A well-designed avatar can also increase engagement and click-through rates.

How can I use my Twitter avatar to connect with my audience?

Your Twitter avatar can be used to connect with your audience by reflecting your brand’s personality and values. It can also be used to convey a specific message or emotion. For instance, a friendly and approachable avatar can make your brand seem more relatable and inviting to your audience.

Can I use the same avatar across all social media platforms?

Yes, using the same avatar across all social media platforms can help in creating a consistent brand image. It makes it easier for your audience to recognize your brand across different platforms. However, make sure the avatar is optimized for each platform’s specific size and format requirements.

How can AI avatars benefit my brand on Twitter?

AI avatars can provide a unique and interactive element to your Twitter profile. They can be programmed to interact with users, answer queries, and provide information, enhancing user engagement. They can also be customized to reflect your brand image, adding a unique touch to your branding strategy.