What's in a Name? How to Name Your Business

If you've finally decided to start a business, congratulations! Becoming an entrepreneur is a BIG step; not many are built for the lifestyle but it can be the most rewarding decision of your life. Although there's laundry list of things to consider when starting a business, one of the biggest decisions will be naming your business. The name you select will set the overall tone of your branding/marketing efforts for your business. Unlike the simple steps it takes to change your social media username, changing a business name is not as simple or ideal, once you establish a relationship with your customers. To be honest, your target audience will absolutely care about the brand they'll be supporting. How will they identify with your brand? How will it make them feel? When it comes to your customers, think of them as your

First Things First: RESEARCH!

Before you get to the creative stage, do a deep dive into brand names. You should conduct research to see what your potential competitors have named their businesses to avoid confusion; research available names in your state; play the word-association game to check the flow of the name. The most important factor when naming your business is to follow your state's guidelines. Research your industry to find attention-grabbing keywords that will gain attention.

While it may be tempting to simply name your business after yourself or someone you love, consider the reasons why that may not be the best idea. How will that name be relevant to your brand? Is it easy to pronounce or spell? The more thought that goes into your brand's name, the better.

Tips: The Dos and Don'ts of Naming Your Brand

Do:

• Incorporate your industry

• Be creative and have fun!

• Think about how it'll flow on social media.

• Make it clear what you do.

• Make a list of words - test if they flow with each other.

• Conduct research! Make sure you check Urban Dictionary.

• Ask your intended target audience what they think.

• Think about your brand's identity.

Don't:

• Name your brand something complicated to say or spell.

• Creative spelling - if it's too creative, it can be awkward to say.

• Follow trends - avoid trendy words.

• Stress or overthink.

• Naming your brand after a product - avoid this, as you may change your product line-up later. This can limit your growth.