Rebranding – It sounds like a one-way ticket to the great unknown!

By
Jamie Bridle / Founder
Rebranding – It sounds like a one-way ticket to the great unknown!

The mere thought of a rebrand can send even the bravest of business folk into a frenzy of worry.

Rebranding – it sounds like a one-way ticket to the great unknown. But let's be real, for many health and wellness companies, rebranding doesn't have to be a total overhaul. Sometimes, all it takes is a subtle makeover to give your brand the boost it needs, without scaring off your loyal customers.

Maybe your brand has been working overtime and looks like it's been hit by the tiredness train. A little sprucing up could be just what the doctor ordered.

Or perhaps your business has pivoted to a new focus, necessitating a tweak in your name and logo.

It's like giving your brand a new pair of sneakers for this exciting new journey.

So, fear not, intrepid business explorer! Rebranding might just be the shot of espresso your brand needs to get back on track without losing its familiar charm.

Let's jump in...



While rebranding may conjure images of dramatic overhauls, it doesn't always have to be a radical transformation. In fact, sometimes, a healthcare company can achieve remarkable results by making subtle yet meaningful changes. This article delves into the reasons why healthcare companies might rebrand themselves and highlights how small-scale rebranding can be just as impactful as a massive overhaul.

---------------------

Case Study: RVT Group - Incremental Rebranding Success

RVT Group, a provider of healthcare to the construction industry, they provide expert advice and specialist equipment to control dust, noise and fumes on site, decided to embark on an incremental rebranding journey to work in conjunction with a change of business name.

Phase 1: Logo and Visual Identity
We began by updating their logo and visual identity. The new logo featured a more modern design, as well as simplified elements. This change was subtle but immediately caught the eye of existing customers.

Phase 2: Website and Online Presence
The company then focused on its online presence. We revamped their website to make it more user-friendly, allowing online access to health resources and case studies. This not only improved patient satisfaction but also attracted new customers searching for on-site care options.

Phase 3: Employee Experience
To enhance the employee experience, RVT Group invested in staff training programs. Employees received training on products and effective communication, which improved interactions between staff and customers, fostering a more positive perception of RVT as a health and care provider.

Phase 4: Community Engagement
RVT Group began actively participating in community health initiatives. They organised on-site audits, and offered health education seminars. This increased community engagement demonstrated the company's commitment to the well-being of on-site workers.

Phase 5: Outreach and Marketing
Finally, the company initiated a targeted marketing campaign to highlight its commitment to on-site-centric care and community involvement. This campaign included customer success stories, showcasing the impact of the incremental changes on real individuals.


---------------------

Why Rebranding in Healthcare?

  1. Adapting to Evolving Market Dynamics: The healthcare industry is dynamic and subject to rapid changes due to technological advancements, shifting patient expectations, and regulatory updates. Companies must rebrand to reflect their ability to adapt and thrive in this ever-changing landscape. A rebrand can signify that a healthcare company is forward-thinking and responsive to emerging trends.
  2. Enhancing Reputation: Healthcare companies are built on trust. A rebranding effort can be aimed at reinforcing or improving a company's reputation. For instance, if a healthcare provider has faced controversies or legal issues, a rebrand can help distance the company from its troubled past and focus on a brighter, more ethical future.
  3. Expanding Services or Target Demographics: When healthcare companies expand their range of services or target new demographics, rebranding is often necessary. A rebrand can communicate the company's new focus and ensure that existing and potential customers understand the changes and benefits offered.
  4. Competitive Edge: To maintain a competitive edge, healthcare companies must differentiate themselves from rivals. Rebranding can help companies stand out by emphasizing their unique strengths, values, or innovations, attracting a larger share of the market.
  5. Overcoming Negative Perceptions: A healthcare company may choose to rebrand to overcome negative perceptions. This could involve addressing misconceptions about their services or changing the public's perception of their brand by highlighting positive aspects.

The Incremental Approach to Rebranding

While massive overhauls can be effective, they come with substantial costs and risks. Incremental rebranding offers a more measured and cost-effective approach to achieving the same goals. Here's why it can be a viable strategy for healthcare companies:

  1. Cost-Effective: Massive rebranding campaigns often require substantial financial resources. Incremental rebranding, on the other hand, allows companies to spread their budget over an extended period, making it more cost-effective.
  2. Minimized Disruption: Radical overhauls can disrupt operations, impacting patient care and staff morale. Incremental rebranding minimizes disruption as changes are introduced gradually, allowing employees and patients to adapt at their own pace.
  3. Preservation of Brand Equity: Established healthcare companies often have strong brand equity. Incremental rebranding allows them to preserve the positive aspects of their existing brand while making targeted improvements.
  4. Flexibility and Experimentation: Incremental rebranding provides the flexibility to test and refine changes as they are implemented. This approach allows healthcare companies to gather feedback and adjust their strategies accordingly.
  5. Less Risk: A massive rebrand carries the risk of alienating existing customers who may have strong attachments to the current brand. Incremental rebranding minimizes this risk by gradually introducing changes, ensuring a smoother transition.

Examples of Incremental Healthcare Rebranding

  1. Logo and Visual Identity: A healthcare company can start by refreshing its logo and visual identity. For instance, a care group may modernise its logo by simplifying the design and updating the colour palette. This subtle change can signal a commitment to progress without altering the core brand image.
  2. Website and Online Presence: A company's website is often the first point of contact for patients. Incremental changes to the website, such as improved navigation, updated content, and a more user-friendly interface, can significantly enhance the user experience.
  3. Patient Experience: Small changes in the patient experience can have a big impact. This could include implementing patient feedback systems, improving waiting room amenities, or enhancing communication between healthcare providers and patients.
  4. Community Engagement: Healthcare companies can gradually increase their involvement in the community to foster positive associations with their brand. This might involve sponsoring local events, organising health fairs, or offering educational seminars.
  5. Staff Training: Improving staff training and customer service can be part of an incremental rebranding effort. Ensuring that employees are aligned with the company's values and are providing top-notch care can positively impact the overall patient experience.

Rebranding is a strategic imperative for healthcare companies looking to thrive in today's rapidly changing landscape. While the idea of a massive overhaul may seem tempting, incremental rebranding can offer a more practical and sustainable approach.

By making subtle yet meaningful changes over time, healthcare companies can adapt to evolving market dynamics, enhance their reputation, and achieve their goals while minimising costs and risks. As demonstrated by the success of RVTGroup, incremental rebranding can lead to lasting positive impacts on patient satisfaction, community engagement, and overall brand perception.

More from our journal