Did you know that 86% of consumers look for an authentic name when choosing which brand to use? Make sure your name doesn’t fall outside of this statistic.
Choosing the perfect business name is a challenging task. We’re here to help with these 7 expert tips on how to come up with a business name.
1. How to Come Up With a Business Name That Is Original
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The first step when choosing a business name is to check if the name has already been registered. Does another company already own the name you wish to use?
You may find that someone already has your name. If so, unfortunately, you will need to come up with a new name.
To do this, type into a search engine “Companies House WebCheck”. Once you find the site, you can search for any limited companies with the name you are looking for.
Has your name popped up? If not, you are free to move to the next step.
2. Check Other Business Names
Now you know that a limited company doesn’t own your name. Let’s look at businesses. These names won’t have come up through the Company name search above.
To check if another business has your name, search for “Business Names Registry”. You will find all the businesses that have registered their names.
Check your name against the database. Hopefully, you won’t get a match.
3. Check Your Wording
You may have many business name ideas which are perfect for your location. But, what will happen when you wish to branch out.
You may find that the wording of your name means something completely different in another country. Check that your name doesn’t include any sensitive words. If your name isn’t appropriate, you may not be allowed to use it.
4. Check Other Products
Looking into other businesses and companies’ names will help you. Although, you may wish to look into other products or services in your field.
Having a business name that is similar to a product may hinder you in the future. You may end up with a lawsuit or cease and desist action against you.
5. Can It Be Trademarked
Trademarking can protect your name against others using it. Even if you don’t wish to do it now, check that it can be trademarked when you are ready.
You have gone through all this trouble to find the perfect business name. Please don’t run the risk of someone taking it from you.
6. Look for the Domain
Your domain is how people will find your business. Look into if your domain is available to use.
You may find variations of your chosen domain. For example, .org instead of .com.
Make sure you have an easy-to-remember domain for people to find. Preferably have your domain the same as your business.
7. Hidden Meaning
As mentioned in point 3, check if your name has hidden meaning. You may be allowed your name, but it could be associated with something negative in other countries. You want your name to have positive associations to achieve success.
Has this list has made you worried about choosing your business name? If so, don’t give up. Find a brand identity agency to help you with your business name generator steps.
Name Your Business
Now you know what to look into when deciding how to come up with a business name. Did you pass all the steps?
Did you find your name on the company listing? Was your perfect domain name available? Will you choose an agency to help you out?
Go ahead and read our other interesting blogs.
