Colors Can Be Key

Basic knowledge about the power of colors and how to use them can go a long way. For example, are you aware of the basic associations with colors? Check out associations of a few basic colors, listed below:

RED	Strength, health, vigor, lust, danger
ORANGE	Encouragement, stimulation, attraction, kindness
YELLOW	Knowledge, charm, confidence, jealousy, comfort
GREEN	Finances, fertility, luck, success energy, ambition
BLUE	Tranquility, understanding, patience, truth, peace, wisdom
VIOLET	Power, sentimentality, tension, wisdom, high ideals

For a full list of colors and all that is associated with them, click here.

For an interactive color experience, click here for a link to a Poynter Institute presentation that encourages exploration with colors.

When you aim to incorporate several different colors into your next design project, check out the Color Scheme Designer which helps you to select which colors to use together - whether you are aiming to using different shades of one hue or 3-4 complementary colors, this is a handy resource for visualizing your color choices!

As communication professionals, it is important to remember that color associations vary from culture to culture, so be sure to do your homework before incorporating color into your next presentation with that international client.


P.S. Go a step beyond and incorporate the colors of a company's logos into any materials or presentations you might share with them. Or if you are working with individuals, use their alma mater's colors!