In the latest episode of The Brand Blueprint Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Ylorie Taylor, a powerhouse in brand strategy and Chief Connections Officer with a proven track record in the beauty and personal care industry. Ylorie’s insights into building consumer-centric brands, balancing passion with practicality, and leveraging fractional leadership left me reflecting on an essential but often challenging aspect of being a founder: receiving and applying constructive feedback.
Why Constructive Feedback Matters for Founders
Let’s face it—listening to constructive feedback isn’t always easy, but it is absolutely necessary. As a founder, your brand is deeply personal, almost like your child, and hearing that something isn’t working can sting. However, embracing this feedback is one of the most effective ways to grow and refine your vision.
Ylorie’s no-nonsense approach to advising brands reminded me why I love working with consultants who aren’t afraid to be honest. Consultants like Ylorie, and our own Creative Director, Heloise Lanoix, provide real, actionable feedback that challenges assumptions and inspires innovation.
Tips for Receiving Constructive Feedback as a Founder
Separate Emotion from Feedback: It’s natural to feel defensive, but remember, feedback is about improving your brand, not critiquing your worth as a founder.
Ask for Specifics: Vague comments like “It’s not working” aren’t helpful. Push for details to understand exactly what needs to change and why.
Engage Trusted Experts: Surround yourself with advisors who understand your industry and your brand’s unique challenges. Professionals like Ylorie and her agency, Brown Girl Marketing, offer specialized expertise that can make a difference.
Apply Feedback Strategically: Not all feedback will align with your vision. Learn to discern which suggestions align with your brand’s goals and values.
The Creative Edge in Brand Strategy
At Value Growth Partners, we consistently involve creatives like Heloise in our client strategy sessions. Creatives bring a fresh perspective, bridging the gap between a founder’s vision and consumer expectations. Heloise’s keen eye for design and her ability to deliver honest, constructive feedback make her an invaluable part of our team.
Whether you’re refining a brand’s visual identity or developing a campaign, having creatives at the table ensures your brand communicates effectively with its audience. If you’re looking for expert guidance, I can’t recommend Heloise highly enough—reach out via the VGP website to learn more about her services.
Resources for Finding Expert Feedback and Creative Talent
Dribbble: Find top creative professionals to elevate your brand identity.
Creative Market: Access design assets and connect with experienced designers.
Toptal: Recruit fractional leaders and consultants for your brand strategy.
Brown Girl Marketing: Explore Ylorie Taylor’s agency for specialized branding and marketing solutions.
Final Thoughts: Taking the Next Step
Constructive feedback, when paired with expert creative input, is a game-changer for founders. It’s a blend of honesty, strategy, and innovation that helps brands break through the noise and connect with their audience on a deeper level.
If you’re ready to take your brand strategy to the next level, schedule an introductory meeting with us at Value Growth Partners. Let’s work together to build a brand that truly resonates.
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