Brand Association vs Brand Image - [Connecting the Dots]
- Madhu Kumar C
- Nov 21, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 18

Brand Association vs Brand Image:
Step into the dynamic world of branding as we decipher the essence of brand association versus brand image.
Brand association links specific qualities to a brand, influencing choices, while brand image paints a holistic picture, shaping how a brand is perceived.
These terms are pivotal in understanding how consumers perceive and connect with a brand. Let's go deeper to learn more.
Brand Association vs Brand Image:
Here's a comparison of brand association and brand image based on their key aspects:
![brand association vs brand image - [brand image vs brand association]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9417b1_52a0870632674aedb3bff67ea0932270~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_870,h_650,al_c,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/9417b1_52a0870632674aedb3bff67ea0932270~mv2.jpg)
Please remember to strategically align your marketing efforts to not only establish positive brand associations but also to build an effective overall brand image.
Did you know? - “Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has described a company’s branding as “what other people say about you when you’re not in the room.” In other words, your brand is people's feelings and emotions when hearing your company name” – HubSpot
In conclusion, the interaction between brand association and brand image forms a vibrant canvas for how a brand is perceived.
While associations anchor consumers to particular attributes, the broader image creates a lasting emotional bond that endures over time.
Here's related information that you may find helpful - Brand Awareness vs Brand Visibility
FAQs:
Brand Image vs Brand Equity:
Here is a comparison of brand image and brand equity on their key aspects:
![brand image vs brand equity - [brand image vs brand equity]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9417b1_806533fd2543448ba515ca0a4cbba7bb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_663,h_519,al_c,q_80,enc_avif,quality_auto/9417b1_806533fd2543448ba515ca0a4cbba7bb~mv2.jpg)
Brand vs Branding vs Brand Identity:
Here is a comparison of brand, branding, and brand identity on their key aspects:

What is Brand Identity or Brand Image?:
Brand identity refers to the collection of all brand elements that a company creates to portray the right image to its consumers, while a brand image is the perception of the brand in the eyes of the consumers.
Remember - “All organizations, no matter how big or small, require branding to connect with their customers” – MarketingProfs
Brand Marketing vs Direct Marketing:
Here is an overview comparison of brand marketing and direct marketing based on their key aspects.

What is Brand Association?:
Brand association refers to the mental connections consumers make between a brand and specific attributes, feelings, or ideas.
These associations contribute to brand identity, influence consumer perceptions, and help differentiate a brand from competitors. Strong positive associations can drive customer loyalty and purchasing decisions.
Brand Identity vs Brand Image:
![brand image vs brand identity - [brand identity vs brand image]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9417b1_d09129c1efd54cb1ae5f016e2524ef45~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_783,h_650,al_c,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/9417b1_d09129c1efd54cb1ae5f016e2524ef45~mv2.jpg)
Positive Brand Association:
Positive brand association occurs when consumers connect favorable emotions, memories, or qualities to a brand, creating trust and loyalty that influences purchasing decisions.
Brand Awareness vs Brand Image:

Types of Brand Association:
Here are the types of brand association that are based on:
Product attributes (features, quality).
Benefits (functional, emotional).
Price positioning.
Celebrity or personality links.
Lifestyle or values alignment.
Brand heritage or history.
“Branding is an ever-evolving process. Use customer feedback and new insights about market trends to refine your approach and ensure your brand remains relevant and competitive” – Wix SEO Hub
What is Brand Image?:
Brand image is the collective perception, impressions, and beliefs that consumers hold about a brand, formed through their experiences and interactions with the brand's communications, products, and services.
Brand Awareness vs Brand Association:
![Brand Awareness vs Brand Association - [brand association vs brand awareness]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9417b1_410326149a5243b7ba493112d5528e1f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_884,h_618,al_c,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/9417b1_410326149a5243b7ba493112d5528e1f~mv2.jpg)
Importance of Brand Association:
The importance of brand association is as follows:
Drives purchasing decisions.
Builds emotional connections.
Supports premium pricing.
Facilitates brand extensions.
Provides a competitive advantage.
Strengthens brand recall.
Reduces marketing costs.
Builds brand equity.
Brand Perception vs Brand Image:

Here's related information that you may also find helpful – Content Marketing vs Brand Marketing
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