What is the difference between image and identity?

The terms "image" and "identity" often come up in discussions of personal, corporate, or product branding, and they refer to related but distinct concepts.

Image:

Image refers to the perception that the public or other people have of a person, company, or product. It is how others see and interpret what and who you are. This perception is influenced by branding, marketing, media representations, and individual experiences with that entity. For example, the image of a company might encompass the quality and aesthetics of its products, its customer service reputation, the design of its logo, and the tone of its advertising. In a personal sense, someone's image can be shaped by their appearance, behavior, and social interactions as observed by others.

Identity:

Identity, on the other hand, is about the reality of what a person, company, or product actually is. It involves the characteristics, values, beliefs, and purpose that define the entity. An organization's identity includes its mission, values, company culture, and the products or services it offers. For an individual, identity comprises personal beliefs, values, personality, and sense of self. Corporate identity or brand identity is typically something that the company has more direct control over, since the company can define its values and mission and then aim to behave in alignment with those.

In summary, identity is the true essence of an entity, while the image is the external perception of that entity.