5 tips for choosing the perfect business name

Let's analyze the baker Katya using a simple example. She is slowly developing her home business by selling cookies to friends and neighbors. Her dream is to open her own bakery with cakes and display cases overflowing with bread and sweets. Only she doesn't know what to call her business.

Council number 1. Focus on the future and your ability to grow and develop

What if Katya calls her bakery something like Katya's Cookies? Her name is Katya, and right now she makes and sells cookies. It's a good choice. And if your future dream is to open a cookie store, you can choose this option.

But the dream bakery she envisions doesn't stop with cookies. Suppose she has a cookie business and wants to start selling cakes, bread, and other goodies. How will the prospect know these items are available for purchase if the store is still called “Katya's cookies”?

She could have rid herself of this problem as the business grew by starting with a name that was more inclusive, like Katya's Creations or Katya's Kitchen. No specific product.

Council number 2. Make sure the business name is original and interesting

The name "Katya's Bakery" is not bad. It talks about who she is and what she does. But nothing makes him stand out, does not arouse interest. It's not very attractive and not too original.

A word or two is enough to give your company a personality, so spend some time thinking. Imagine a company name that attracts a customer. The name you choose is the foundation of your business and brand.

Council number 3. Make the title easy to find in searches

Recently, there has been a tendency among startups to omit the vowel when naming a business. This worked for Shipt and Tumblr, but for the most part, clever spelling can play a trick on automatic spelling corrections in search engines.

Say the title. Is it difficult to understand by ear that it is not spelled correctly? Don't create an unnecessary barrier between your business and the customer trying to find it.

Council number 4. Analyze 10 to 20 name variations

Yes, that's a lot. But, as soon as you complete your list, immediately begin to shorten it. Some of the ideas may already be used, while others may prove to be problematic when it comes to registering domain names or social media accounts.

If you only come up with 3 ideas, don't be surprised if your list is completely empty. Why? Because you want what's available as your company name, domain name, and social media nickname.

Council number 5. Study the market

You have come up with a name for your business. It talks about who you are and what you do, and you feel like you're on target. What's next?

Even if you came up with the greatest business name, it won't matter if it can't be used. Once you've narrowed down your list, it's time to start digging.

There are many websites that parse titles. For the best marketing potential, you need one that contains not only the domain, but also the usernames available on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, etc. There is also NameVine.com, a website that will tell you if the selected domain name and social descriptors for your company name.

Output

Choosing a name for your business is an important task, but it should be more fun than stressful. With a strategic approach and an eye for the opportunities that the future of your business may have, you can create a name that embodies your presence today and supports its legacy tomorrow.