Choosing The Right Business Name

Choosing the right name helps tell your story, what you offer, and a lot about your brand. With the right name, you can make strong connections with your target market, initiating interest and encouraging interaction. The wrong name could reduce your chances of success.

Here’s how to choose the right business name before you register your business.

Be Original, Not Cryptic

There’s a fine line between originality and being outright cryptic when you choose a company name. The key is to aim for something memorable, but not confusing. You want a positive name that attracts your audience and, if possible, hints at what you do. If you are too cryptic or overly clever, the name just won’t make the connections you want and need.

Ask Opinions

Don’t get too hung up on a name and rush to register your business. Instead, ask for opinions to determine what names resonate the most with others. And make sure what resonates matches the brand you’re trying to create. For example, selecting the name “Float” for your meditation studio may seem like a good idea, but if people think it’s a pool company, you’ll miss your mark.

Maintain Relevance

As mentioned above, your name has to be relevant. You want to convey a message that gets people interested in what you do. What do you sell? What service do you offer? Choose a name that clearly answers the question.

Consider the “Look” of Your Name

The name itself has to be right, but also consider the look of the words/letters. The words/letters in your name can help you create a logo that adds intrigue to your brand. What can you do with the name that makes it more graphically enticing? It’s important to consider this aspect of the name because your name’s “look” is where your brand recognition begins.

Start with Basics and Expand

If you find you are lost, think of words that can be used to describe what you do. Next, search those words online and see what comes up. And don’t forget your thesaurus. A simple word can be made more exciting with a more clever or interesting word that helps convey your name more creatively. Use free tools like Ubersuggest (a free keyword tool) and see what comes up. It could be the most revealing way to find an exciting name concept.

Avoid “Like” Names

Do a trademark search or use secretary of state records to make sure your ideas aren’t already registered by another business. Also, be very careful not to choose a name that closely resembles another company. You don’t want a name that inspires lawsuits when you register your business or form an LLC!

Consider Negatives

Always consider possible negatives when choosing a name, such words that are hard to pronounce or spell. Consider any negative connotations that could cause misunderstandings. Avoid company names that could pigeonhole you into something too specific, making it difficult to expand into new areas. Make sure the name is easy to say clearly when you answer business calls.
These tips can make it easier to find the perfect name.

Have you chosen the right business name? Register your business today.