What Should I Name My Business Or Store?

What Should I Name My Business Or Store?
by
Corin Tomasello

What to name your business is one of the most important decisions that you will make as you venture into the entrepreneurial world. Finding the right name can correlate to the success of your brand. You might be wondering ‘how do I come up with a business name’? Well, we’re here to help! Today on the blog, Charisma’s compiled our top tips on how to choose the right brand name - the first time.  

Branding 101

Here’s how to set yourself up for a brand you love and avoid possible rebranding woes down the road:  

Avoid Hard to Spell Names

In short, keep your name simple. Keep it as short as possible. You don’t want your customers to misspell your name or have trouble finding your business in an online search. Remember your name will be used for your social profiles, so shorter and easy to spell is better.

Tip: Do a domain search to make sure that a matching URL is available. Sometimes you may end up going with a different name to suit a better online address.

Make Sure the Name Sounds Good When Said Aloud

You’re going to be introducing your business a lot and saying its name out loud often. Pick something that will sound good in conversation, on the radio, or in a video.  The use of alliteration ( using words that start with the same consonant) can be pleasing to the ears. Think Coca Cola or Charisma Communications. See? These roll off the tongue and sound good said aloud.

Don’t Limit Your Business

Choose an open-ended name. Don’t pick too narrow of a name that in the future if you change your business direction. This is a big cause of having to do a whole rebrand. Choose something that is ambiguous, but isn’t off in left field.

Do a Thorough Internet Search

Avoid the mistake of choosing a business name that is already in use. You might find someone that is currently using that name but don’t get discouraged. Do some research into what they are selling, where they are located, and see if you can tweak the name to fit your needs.  Tip: If you do find an amazing business name that checks all your boxes, it might be a good time to look into trademarking it to ensure that as your business grows your name will stay safe with your brand.

Test Out Your Name On Google AdWords

Use the “find keywords” tool on AdWords to search how many global and local searches your potential business name or similar phrase might be getting monthly. Take care to do a little research and do multiple searches with your potential name to avoid a business name that might be already out there that could possibly steal some of your attention.  

Go With Your Gut

Ultimately your store or company is more than its name and logo. It is an extension of you. So define your business and what is important to you and share it with the world! If you love it and it resonates with you, then it will very likely capture your ideal client’s attention. Need branding help? Our Tampa, FL based marketing consultants love helping start-ups or businesses who are in a rebrand phase. Contact us today to ask an expert!

Tips for Finding the Perfect Brand Name

Here are some additional tips and questions to ask yourself that will help you find the perfect name for your business:

  • Make a list of things that you want your brand to convey. These can be adjectives or emotions. What do you want people to think of when they hear your business name?  
  • Think about what demographic you want to reach, and what makes your business unique. Is there a story behind your business?  
  • Make a list of potential business names. Don’t hold back, just write anything that comes to mind. You can narrow it down later!
  • Test your name out on friends and family. Ask around and see what feedback you get on the name. Ask those who can give honest opinions.

Choosing a Brand Name

We get it. Choosing a business name can be hard. You want your business to leave a lasting impression on your customers and give off the right vibe to prospective customers.

Try our branding tips above and you will be on your way to having a great business name in no time!   Charisma Communications in Tampa, FL can help build your brand. From content marketing and copywriting, to brand collateral and social media management, we are here to help your business grow! Ready to #brandyourcharisma? Call Charisma for a consultation today!