Tonia Ryan, Business Development and CEO of Techvoya.com.
Alright, grab your notebook and your favorite drink because we’re about to tackle one of the most exciting (and sometimes most difficult) part of starting your business—choosing your brand name. I get it, naming your business can feel overwhelming since all the good names and URLs seem to be taken. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. By the time we’re done, you’ll not only know how to nail this, but you’ll probably have a list of potential winners to choose from.
Why Your Brand Name Matters
First things first, your brand name is your first impression. It’s what people will see, hear and remember. An epic name sets the right tone for your business, grabs attention and sticks in people’s minds like a catchy tune. Think about names like Apple, Nike or my company Smazy. Their names are simple, memorable and loaded with identity. That’s exactly the kind of magic we’re aiming for here.
The Secret Behind A Great Brand Name
Before we get into the nitty-gritty process, let’s talk about what makes a brand name work. At its core, a great brand name should be:
Memorable
If your name fades faster than a Snapchat, it’s time to rethink. People should remember it without a lot of effort.
Easy
Test how easy the name is to spell and say by writing it down and saying it out loud. If people stumble over it or constantly misspell it, go back to the drawing board.
Relevant
Your name should give people some insight into what you do or represent (without being too literal).
Timeless
Trends fade, but your business will hopefully be here for decades. Avoid overly trendy words unless you want to be stuck in a time capsule.
Unique
No one likes a copycat. Your name should stand out in your industry and avoid potential trademark conflicts.
Step-By-Step Guide To Crafting Your Winning Brand Name
Here’s the fun part! Let’s walk through this process together.
1. Get clear on your brand identity.
Before brainstorming names, you need to know who your business is. Think of your brand as a personality. Is it bold and daring? Elegant and sophisticated? Fun and quirky? Write down the answers to these questions:
• What’s your mission?
• Who is your target audience?
• What feelings or emotions do you want your brand to evoke?
This clarity will act as a compass, keeping you on track throughout the naming process.
2. Brainstorm like a pro.
Now’s the time to kick those creative juices into high gear. Don’t hold back! The goal here is quantity over quality, so write down every idea that pops into your head. You can refine later. Here are some tricks to spark inspiration:
• Think Keywords: Write down words related to your industry, product or what makes your business unique.
• Play With Languages: Look into translations of meaningful words in other languages. (Just make sure to double-check their meanings!)
• Get Personal: Consider names that reflect your story, your value or even your name. “Ben & Jerry’s” has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?
• Mash Words Together: Smash two words into one. Think Pinterest (Pin + Interest).
3. Narrow down your favorites.
Look at your brainstorm list and start circling your top contenders. Here’s a quick test for your shortlist:
• Is it easy to pronounce and spell?
• Does it pass the “phone test”? (Say it over the phone to someone; can they easily write it down?)
• Is the domain name available? Check if the .com version of your name is up for grabs.
• Can it grow with your business? Avoid names that box you into one product or service unless that’s your long-term goal.
4. Check for uniqueness.
Alright, you’ve got a few front-runners. Now, you need to ensure your dream name isn’t already taken. Here’s how:
• Google It: A quick search will tell you if someone else has claimed the spotlight with your name.
• Check For Trademarks: Head to sites like the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) to confirm your name isn’t trademarked.
• Scan Social Media: See if the Instagram, Twitter and Facebook handles are available. You don’t want to battle a random inactive account for your name.
5. Test it out.
Before committing, float your name ideas past your target audience. You can ask trusted friends, family or even run a quick survey. Pay attention to how they react. Do they remember it an hour later? Does it resonate with them? Testing your name is like getting a sample at the ice cream shop before deciding on the full scoop.
6. Make it official.
Once you’ve chosen THE name, lock it in. Secure the domain, register your social media handles and trademark it if necessary. This is your moment to claim your corner of the world. Celebrate it!
A Word Of Advice
Don’t stress too much. Yes, your brand name is important, but your branding, messaging and customer experience matter just as much (if not more). A great name is just one piece of the puzzle. The magic happens when you bring it to life.
Final Thoughts (And A Little Push To Get Started)
Look, naming your business might not feel easy at first. But trust me, you’ve got this. Take your time, have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Remember, this is your brand and your name should reflect the unique awesomeness you bring to the table.
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