Black Panther is shattering box office records and inspiring millions. We can learn a lot by dissecting the actions of the powerhouse team behind this film. I'm not even into superhero films, yet I've seen this movie twice and plan to go a third time. Why? Because the storyline inspired me and the sense of community that the movie itself has fostered within the Black community is mesmerizing. Now let's get into the juicy stuff aka what Black Panther taught us about branding in 2018.

Be Authentic

The people of Wakanda were themselves; with natural hair, unique style and lots of wit. Nobody in Wakanda dressed alike except for the warriors. I was impressed with the way, Ruth E. Carter, designed wardrobe for the cast. She studied garments from the Maasai and other African tribes per this New York Times article. So, what does all this mean to you? Your brand is unique to YOU. Sure, products and offerings must cater to your audience to equate to sales, but your audience will never find you if they cannot identify what makes you different.

I encourage you to lean into what sets you a part; rather it's your curly hair, witty personality, professional background or celebrity client list. People buy from people, not machines. Give your brand some life by creating lifestyle content that is authentic to YOU and will resonate with your audience. For example, I started sharing my journey in advertising as a Black woman because my audience is mainly Black women who are active in social media and consume advertisements daily.

Women Can Do Anything Men Can Do

Yes, I am a part-time feminist. Carry on.

Okoye, leader of the Dora Milaje regiment; Nakia, government spy; and Shuri, head scientist are unforgettable characters in Black Panther. I admire each women's brain power and unique style. They never backed down from a challenge in Black Panther and were leaders in their respective industries.

Black Panther himself froze when he first saw Nakia and was aided by Okoye to complete a successful rescue. There would be no Black Panther without Nakia, saving his family. So... what does all this mean for branding? You must have a powerful team built with thought leaders to run a successful brand. You cannot do everything always, so it's great to have team members with work ethic and integrity to help you carry out tasks. Click here to read How to Brand Yourself Using Free Tools.

Don't Judge a Book by its Cover

The entire world believed that Wakanda, world leaders in modern technology, was a third world country. Although Wakanda was to blame for this perception, it played a huge role in how each country at the United Nations treated the people of Wakanda throughout the movie. So, what does this mean for you? I'm glad that you asked.

You should not say “no” or “yes” to a person or opportunity simply based upon what meets the eyes. You must research brands and businesses before collaborating with them or attending their events. Always remember that "you are the company that you keep." Click here to read why you should support your local girl gang.

Visuals Matter

Black Panther has some of the best visuals I've ever seen, hands down. I fell in love with the waterfall where ritual combat took place. The colors of fabric represented amongst the African people and the depth of the waterfall were breathtaking. It's not every day that you see hundreds of people who look like you standing proud on and within a larger than life waterfall.

What does this mean for you? It means people will remember your brand for what it looks like and how it makes them feel not what it says. Take some time to think about your brand's physical appearance and make sure it's visually appealing.

Black Panther was everything that my soul needed and more. Use the tips above to take your brand to the next level this year. It's time to create more dynamic content. Click here to download 20 Free Apps and Resources You Need to Do It All and Still Slay.