Apr 2, 2024
By:Emily Harper
Congratulations! So you’ve decided to take a leap and start your own business, but for some reason, you can’t quite settle on the perfect name. You want something that is catchy, memorable, and reflects the products or services that you offer while also making people excited about your business
Choosing a name for your business requires imagination, knowledge of the market, and a bit of planning. A carefully chosen name represents your business and helps make a great first impression.
With over 5.5 million new businesses launched in the US alone, it's clear that crafting the perfect name that is unique and available could be a common challenge for many entrepreneurs.
But don’t worry! We’ve put together our best tips and tricks to help you develop a unique and memorable business name that will put you on the path to launching your business.
A memorable business name is straightforward, easy to spell, and resonates with your customers. It should stand out from your competitors and reflect the heart of your business’s offerings and values.
Here are a few things to think about:
Keep it Short and Sweet: Did you know using a short business name can make your life easier? They are more memorable and less likely to be abbreviated in an undesirable way, which means you can avoid potential misunderstandings and mistakes. The average length for business names from LOGO.com users is 1-2 words with around 20 characters.
Avoid Complex Jargon: Jargon is a special set of words and phrases used by people in a particular area that might be difficult for others outside that group to understand. To avoid confusion, simplify your business name so a broad audience can understand it.
For example, rather than naming your business ‘Harry’s Giddlecakes,’ you could use ‘Harry’s Hotcakes.’ The difference between the two names is that hotcakes are more widely known than griddlecakes. However, you could use the name ‘Harry’s Breakfast Griddles’ so that those who don’t know what griddles are can clearly relate that griddles are a breakfast food.
Make it relevant: Choosing a relevant name for your business is essential. It can help turn your audience into customers by understanding what your business is all about, what you value, and what industry you belong to. A good name can also help you create a unique brand story that sets you apart from your competitors.
Connect it to your Industry: Hints of your industry in your business name can help your customers understand what kind of products or services you offer. This will make your name more relatable and recognizable to your target audience, who are the most likely to be your customers.
For example, if you own a catering business that serves locally sourced meals, the name ‘Green Acres Catering’ tells your customers that the food you serve is fresh, wholesome, and locally sourced.
The use of "Green" emphasizes a commitment to environmental sustainability, while "Acres" hints at the collaboration your business does with local farms and producers. Incorporating "Catering" clearly identifies the type of service provided, making it straightforward for customers to recognize that Green Acres Catering offers culinary services for events, gatherings, or special occasions.
Align with Your Business Values: Business values are like the heartbeat of a small business, setting the tone for how you work, treat your customers, and make decisions that steer the company's future. Think of them as your business's personality traits, defining who you are in the marketplace and how you connect with your community.
If you run a business and care about the environment, picking a name that reminds people of nature or conservation can help you connect with your customers. It's a simple way to show that you're committed to sustainability and care about the planet.
For example, imagine you're launching a fashion business that's committed to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. You want your business name to reflect these values while also making it relevant to your industry. A name like "Green Thread Couture" accomplishes just that.
The "Green Thread" part of the name shows you're all about being kind to the planet, suggesting you use eco-friendly materials right down to the thread. Adding "Couture" lets everyone know you're in the fashion business, making stylish and carefully made clothes. This name does a great job of showing what your company is about and who you want to attract - people who care about these things as much as you do.
To stand out in a competitive market, it's important to avoid using common phrases or words that everyone else is using. Coming up with a unique name for your business can be exciting. It can pique the interest of potential customers, making them more curious to learn more about what you offer.
Here's how you can stand out:
Get Creative: When it comes to naming, you can get creative and use unique formats. For example, you can combine two words, use words that start with the same sound or rhyme, or even create a new word altogether. This will help your name stand out and be more memorable.
Think Outside the Box: You can find inspiration for names in all sorts of places, like books, unfamiliar languages, or even your own personal experiences. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and get creative!
The companies GrubHub, BitCoin, and Dropbox are great examples of creative naming. Each of these businesses' names is easy to remember, relates to its industry, and shows off a little creativity.
Choosing the right name for your business is more than just a task—it's about creating a meaningful connection with your customers. A great business name not only helps people remember you but also conveys who you are and what you offer in a memorable way.
Emotional Connection: When a name brings up an emotional response, it can leave a lasting impression. That emotional response could be anything from a feeling of comfort to excitement or curiosity. For example, ‘Blissful Bite’ or ‘Dynamic Cleaners.’
Pro Tip: Get inspired by using our Business Name Generator to add an emotional connection to your business name. Simply type in your industry, add the emotion you want to express and find your new business name!
Visual Elements: If you want people to remember your business name easily, you can add something visual to it. When you do this, it creates an image in people's minds that they'll remember more easily than if the name is too generic or abstract. For example, "Red Fox Apparel" is easier to remember than a name like "Clothing Company."
Auditory Appeal: Think about how your business name sounds when spoken aloud. A name that flows smoothly off the tongue is more likely to be remembered and shared. Rhymes, alliteration, and rhythm can add a certain appeal that'll make your business name stand out and leave a lasting impression on your readers.
Pro Tip: A great business name is your best first impression. Stand out by using our Business Name Generator! It’s as easy as adding your industry and keyword and then changing the style to ‘one word’ to find a short and catchy business name.
By approaching the naming process with care and thoughtfulness, you'll land on a name that truly resonates with your audience and leaves a lasting impression
When naming your business, it's wise to avoid certain pitfalls that can negatively impact your success.
Here are 7 things you should avoid while deciding on a name for your business:
1. Overly Complex Names: Complicated or hard-to-spell names can confuse customers and make it challenging for them to remember and find you.
2. Generic Names: Choosing a name that's too common or lacking in originality can make it difficult for your business to stand out in a crowded market.
3. Trendy Names: While trendy names may feel current, they can quickly become outdated, potentially requiring a rebrand in the future.
4. Inelegant or Offensive Words: Words that are negative or that may be misinterpreted can harm your business's reputation and turn away potential customers.
5. Overly Narrow Names: Selecting a name that limits your business's growth potential by being too specific to a particular product or location may slow future growth.
7. Difficult Pronunciation: Choosing a business name that is challenging to pronounce or remember can create barriers to word-of-mouth referrals and recognition.
8. Unintentional Double Meanings: Be cautious of unintentional double meanings that could be misunderstood by different audiences.
Avoiding these common business name mistakes can help you create a name that truly reflects your values, connects with your audience, and endures the test of time. By doing so, you can ensure that your business stands out in a crowded marketplace and remains memorable for years to come.
Now that you know what you need to make a great business name and the mistakes to avoid, it’s time to put it to work with a brainstorming session! A brainstorming session for coming up with a business name is an energetic, creative process where you and your team (or even just you if you're flying solo) put your heads together to generate a list of potential names for your small business.
Start with a brainstorming session by considering the points we have just looked at:
With these in mind, here are a few techniques for your brainstorming session to kickstart your creativity in thinking up your perfect business name:
Set the Stage: Find a comfortable, distraction-free space where thoughts can flow freely and gather the necessary materials for your brainstorming session. There is no right or wrong way to write these ideas down, you can use pen and paper, your phone, or computer word apps.
Start Generating Ideas: Begin throwing out name ideas. No filter, no judgment—just let the suggestions fly. Think about words, phrases, or references that relate to your core values, your industry, the emotions you want your business to convey, or even puns and plays on words. Every idea gets noted.
Use Different Techniques: Try different brainstorming techniques, such as mind mapping (where you visually map out ideas branching off from your business’s key themes) or the mash-up method (combining different words or concepts).
Narrow Down: Once you have a list of potential names, start the filtering process. Think about how the name options align with your business goals, values, and mission. Then, consider how catchy, easy to pronounce, and memorable they are. You might even want to set the list aside for a day or two, then come back to it with fresh eyes.
By considering these factors, you'll be able to generate ideas for your business that are creative and aligned with your business.
During the brainstorming process, there is no such thing as a bad idea! This is where you are allowed to think outside the box and let your creativity shine. The key is to write down all the ideas that come to mind and rank them based on the key considerations we have gone over.
When you hit a creative block, LOGO.com’s Business Name Generator is a game-changer for coming up with unique business name ideas. We know finding the perfect business name can be hard. That’s why we have launched a new and improved business name generator — powered by AI 💪
Simply enter your business type and a keyword to generate a list of catchy and memorable business names. You can also choose a naming style to personalize the perfect name for your business. From there, we can take you from start to success with all the tools to launch your new business in minutes!
The best part is that you can completely set up your business in three easy steps!
Step One: Simply enter one keyword that best describes your business for the best name suggestions. You can use the filters to modify your search and favorite the names you love. Then, you can check domain name availability to make sure the company name you want will complement your business website.
Step Two: Create a logo for your new business with our free Logo Maker! You can choose from many unique templates and make a completely customizable logo before downloading it in high-resolution file formats.
Step Three: Launch your new business by creating a free website, business cards, social media templates, and more!
At LOGO.com, we make it easy for you to start your business from start to success.
Great job! If you now have a list of business names you are considering, it’s time to test it out. Your business name will be the first thing people know about your brand, so it's essential to get it right. To ensure your name is memorable and has a positive impact, get feedback from different people and check to see if the name you want is available as a website address and on social media so that you can use it consistently across different platforms.
If you need more clarification about how people will react to a name you've chosen (or thinking about choosing), share it with your close friends, family members, or even your potential customers. This can help you gauge their initial reactions and make any necessary changes to ensure your name is well-received. Sometimes, others can provide different perspectives that you didn’t think of before, which can save you from regretting your business name choice down the road.
Before settling on a business name, it's a good practice to verify the availability of your desired domain name and social media handles. This will ensure your brand and business name stays consistent across all online platforms. By checking the availability of your desired domain name and social media handles, you can also avoid potential conflicts with existing businesses and make it easier for your customers to find you online.
Before starting any business, it is essential to make sure that no one else is using your brand name, logo, or any other identifying symbols. You can do this by conducting a trademark search, which is a way to check if someone else has registered a similar or identical name or logo to yours.
By doing this, you can avoid legal issues, such as trademark infringement, and protect the rights to your business. It is highly recommended that a thorough trademark search be conducted before launching any new product or service to avoid any issues that may come up later.
Here’s how you can do this:
Start with Basic Searches: Start with a simple online search for domain name availability. These searches can reveal if your intended name is already in widespread use or if a direct competitor with a similar or identical name exists.
Use Official Trademark Databases: The Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) is an online database maintained by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It allows you to conduct an extensive search for both registered and pending trademark applications that might conflict with your preferred business name. If you are not from the US, you can search for the trademarks database from your country.
Consider International Trademarks: If you plan to operate or expand your business internationally, searching the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Global Brand Database will reveal potential conflicts with international trademarks.
Utilize Professional Services: If you are unfamiliar with how to search for trademarks or want to make sure you're being as thorough as possible, professional services can help. They have the knowledge and experience to conduct comprehensive searches and understand all the ins and outs of trademark law.
While this is not necessary, trademarking can safeguard your business name legally and maintain exclusive rights to use it for your products or services. It can also help you avoid accidentally copying someone else's intellectual property and having to change your business name in the future.
If you are in it for the long run, trademarking can ensure that your business name stands out from the crowd and is protected from copycats. This can avoid customer confusion and establish a clear and trustworthy image. However, trademarking a business name can be expensive, so you should think about it before investing.
If you choose not to trademark your business name, the most important thing then is to make sure you have not infringed on another business name’s trademark by doing your research as mentioned above.
When you're about to decide on a name for your business, it's important to take a moment and really think about it. Your business name is more than just a label—it's the first thing people will notice about your business. It's like a handshake between you and your audience and sets the tone for everything that follows.
Take a moment to reflect by asking yourself:
Does the name align with my business's identity and values?
Think about your business's core mission, vision, and values. Does the name you're thinking of capture these elements? For example, if your brand thrives on innovation, does the name convey a cutting-edge and forward-thinking vibe? This alignment ensures that your business name speaks volumes about your beliefs, products and services, making it easier for like-minded customers to resonate with your business.
Will it appeal to my target audience?
Your target audience is the customers you want to bring to your business, so considering them is an important piece of the business name process. Step into the shoes of your target audience. Will the name resonate with them? Is it something they can relate to or find attractive? A compelling name can draw in your ideal customers like a magnet.
Is the name future-proof?
Consider your business's future growth. Will the name still be relevant and versatile enough to accommodate its growth? A name that's too limiting might restrict your business's growth potential.
For example, if you have a business called Joe’s Main and 15th Street Diner, but a few years later, your business moves to a new location that is not on Main and 15th Street, this may cause confusion for both your existing and new customers.
Does the name make me feel confident and proud?
Your belief in the name is key to driving your enthusiasm for branding and marketing your business.
Taking time to reflect on your choices will help you select a name that truly reflects your business and has the potential to become a memorable brand.
Congrats! Choosing a name marks a significant milestone as you step into entrepreneurship and begin your new business venture.
Now that you've settled on a name, here are vital steps that you can take:
Register Your Business Name: Make sure your chosen name is available and get it officially registered. This step ensures legal ownership and protects your brand from unauthorized use.
Secure Your Online Presence: Grab a domain name that mirrors your business name. This is crucial for setting up a professional website and email address and establishing your online identity.
Trademark Your Name: Consider trademark protection for your business name to safeguard it legally and maintain exclusive rights to use it for your products or services.
Design a Logo: Create a unique logo that complements your business name and represents your brand identity. Consistent branding enhances recognition and reinforces your business offering.
Create Business Documents: Review and create business documentation (e.g. letterheads, invoices), contracts, and marketing materials (e.g. business cards) to reflect your new business name.
Update Your Online Presence: Ensure your website, social media profiles, and other platforms reflect your new business name and logo for a cohesive image online.
Launch Your Marketing Campaign: Develop a marketing strategy to introduce your new business name to your target audience. Use a mix of marketing channels to create buzz and attract customers.
Remember, a well-thought-out business name is not just a title—it's a promise, a story, and the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey. By following our expert tips and tricks above, you can feel confident in navigating the complex world of naming your business!
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