Starting a new business is an exciting step, but one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked, is how to choose the right name. Naming your business has such a crucial role in shaping its identity and the perception of your customers.
In this article, we will explain why naming is important, the psychology behind it, and how to choose the perfect name for your business.
Introduction
When starting a new business, the naming process may seem like something easy peasy. Well, not if you are a forever indecisive like your truly.
A little BTS: When I was in the process of coming up with a name for The Alternative Copy Studio, I had no idea where to start. I literally spent days brainstorming on different choices, without actually reaching to a conclusion. Then, I started reflecting on my values, who I wanted to talk to with my business, AKA my audience, who I wanted to resonate with, and why my business was born in the first place.
I knew I wanted to talk to people who, like me, escaped the matrix, choosing an alternative lifestyle and approach to life. I wanted to be a different copywriter, one that actually cares about what she writes, because I embody the same values as my clients. I wanted to be an alternative.
And just like that, one morning it struck me: the perfect name. Before getting comfy on the idea, I checked the domain availability and… boom. Purchased on the spot. The Alternative Copy was officially born.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Name
The name you choose should be reflecting your and your audience’s values, and most importantly, convey a message. This is the core of your business essence: your branding.
Not all businesses can be brands. Often, the only ones who succeed are those who have a clear and solid identity through evoking emotions to consumers (Coca-Coca equals to happiness; Apple equals to sophistication; Nike equals to winning, etc.). Most consumers would not just look at a specs sheet, but more on how you make them feel.
Factors to Consider When Naming Your Business
Reflecting on Your Brand Identity
Your business name should align with your brand identity and the essence of your offerings. Consider your brand values, mission, and vision when brainstorming potential names. Whether you want to portray professionalism, creativity, or reliability, your name should reflect these attributes.
Easy to Remember and Pronounce
Keep it simple and easy to pronounce. Avoid complex spellings or lengthy names that might confuse or frustrate your customers when they want to look you up online.
Unique and Differentiating
Competition is wild, so try to be unique and distinctive. And make sure that your name doesn’t clash with existing brands or trademarks.
Brainstorming and Research
When naming your business, consider your target audience’s preferences, interests, and demographics. A name that resonates with your target market can help you establish an emotional connection more easily.
Analyzing Competitors’ Names
Researching your competitors’ names can provide you insights into the naming trends within your industry: do they use their own name (for personal branding) or go with a brand name? Is their name in a foreign language, or does it make any sense at all?
Creating a Name with Meaning
Here are some strategies to infuse meaning into your business name:
Using Descriptive Words
Incorporate words that describe your offers or brand attributes into your business name. This can instantly convey what you do and help potential customers understand your offerings.
Incorporating Keywords
Including relevant keywords in your business name will also help you with search engine visibility. Research industry-specific keywords and identify ways to incorporate them naturally into your name without sounding forced!
Telling a Story
A name that tells a story can evoke curiosity and engage your audience. Craft a name that sparks, intrigue or conveys a unique narrative, leaving customers wanting to learn more about your brand.
Checking Availability and Registering the Name
Don’t get too emotional with a business name until you checked its availability and protected your brand. Follow these steps:
Domain Name Availability
Check the availability of your domain. Do I even have to say it? Apparently yes. But seriously, do it. You can check this on GoDaddy, Google Domains and many other domain databases.
Trademark Search
Remember to check that your chosen name is not already registered or upon someone else’s intellectual property. I mean, we certainly don’t want any legal issues down the line!
Registering the Business Name
Once you have verified the availability of your name, it’s time to register it legally with the appropriate authorities. This step formalizes your ownership and provides legal protection for your brand.
Finalizing and Launching Your Business Name
After completing the necessary checks and registrations, it’s time to finalize and launch your business name. Yay! Consider the following aspects:
Logo and Visual Identity
Develop a badass logo and branding elements that align with your business name. Consistency between your name and visual identity will definitely create a strong and cohesive brand image.
Developing a Brand Strategy
Craft a comprehensive brand strategy that aligns with your business name. Define your target audience, brand positioning, key messages, and marketing channels to effectively communicate your brand to the world.
Need some help with your strategy? Get in touch and we’ll be right back at you!
To wrap up…
Choosing the right name for your business is a critical step in building a successful brand. By considering factors like brand identity, memorability, uniqueness, and legal aspects, you can create a name that resonates with your target audience and sets you apart from competitors.
Get inspired and let the creative process flow. Check different languages, literature, art, or even nature. Inspiration can strike from unexpected places, so keep an open mind! This Ted Talk by Jonathan Bell gives step-by-step advice on how to create a lasting brand name.
