Secrets of 10 Most-Trusted Brands

6. Stay Consistent: Ford

We all live in an era when it is believed that only one that does not have a change is change itself. But Ford makes an exception by not believing in any change. Its consistent branding has thus established the company as an idol of reliability.

Brand Strategist for the Blake Project consultancy, Brad VanAuken noted out that from its simple, one-syllable name to its iconic logo and emphasis on founding father Henry Ford, the company's brand identity has survived the test of time.

"Everyone knows and admires the Ford story. Of the three Detroit-based automakers, Ford has the most consistent brand, product strategy and execution," VanAuken said.

According to him the brand also listens to and acts on its customers' and the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Alan Mulally is actively involved in interacting with customers through social media.

In Stengel’s survey, the brand ranked high for stability and dependability. The respondents of the survey gave the brand the strongest average ratings for concern, specifically for being responsible and caring about the well-being of employees and customers. Ford's refusal to take government bailout money was seen as an evidence for the company's integrity by most of the respondents.

VanAuken noted that consistency needs to reach all corners of any business. "Changing the logo, tag line and messaging on a frequent basis will ensure that nothing about your brand sticks in your intended customers' heads. Once you have developed a unique and compelling value proposition for your brand, repeat it again and again," he added.

Have a look at the secrets behind the success of the most-trusted American brands.