If you buy something through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more.
Choosing the perfect business name for your venture is an essential step on the entrepreneurial journey, significantly impacting the process of how to come up with a business name. This important decision not only defines your brand’s identity but also affects customer perception and recall.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the art of naming your business, discussing creative strategies for brainstorming business names, and highlighting the importance of this process. You’ll also discover resources for seeking professional assistance to create a great business name and learn about potential pitfalls to avoid during the naming process.
Unleash your inner wordsmith and learn how to come up with a business name that resonates with your target audience and paves the way for your venture’s long-term success.
Why Business Names are So Important
Whether you own an online store or a brick-and-mortar enterprise, the significance of a good business name goes beyond being a mere label; it encapsulates the essence of your brand and serves as a powerful marketing tool.
An effective business name creates a lasting impression, instilling trust and credibility in the minds of potential customers. It is a key factor in differentiating your company from competitors, ensuring your unique value proposition stands out in a crowded marketplace. Furthermore, a well-crafted name can evoke the right emotions, driving customer loyalty and fostering word-of-mouth referrals.
Ultimately, the best name lays the foundation for a cohesive brand identity, impacting everything from logo design to advertising campaigns. That’s why it’s a huge part of any business startup checklist.
In today’s fast-paced business landscape, a memorable and meaningful name is indispensable in establishing your presence and shaping the trajectory of your entrepreneurial success story.
Small Business Deals
What’s in a Business Name?
The significance of a business name should not be underestimated, as it serves as the official representation of your brand. When starting a new business, you’re faced with numerous considerations, ranging from logistics like packaging, shipping, and distribution to crucial marketing decisions.
However, amidst all these important factors, the absence of an appropriate official brand name can render everything else inconsequential. A notable example is Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon.
In 1994, Bezos initially contemplated naming his company “Cadabra,” drawing inspiration from the magical phrase “Abracadabra.” However, due to a miscommunication with his lawyer, who misheard it as “cadaver,” which refers to a lifeless body, Bezos swiftly made the decision to change the name to “Amazon.” Fast forward to 2020, and Amazon has become the most valuable brand in the world.
Don’t miss the insightful video discussion by Jonathan Bell, Founder and agency head of WANT Branding, on the topic of business name categories. Bell, a branding expert with a three-decade career, has contributed to over 2,000 projects worldwide, helping industry giants like Apple, Google, Mercedes-Benz, Coca-Cola, and Johnson & Johnson to shape their branding strategies.
His understanding of branding, distilled from his experiences with numerous renowned brands, makes his video a meaningful supplement to the insights offered in this article.
How Do You Name Your Small Business?
Learning how to create a business name typically begins with introspection and research. Here are some general steps to guide you in creating the perfect name for your new business idea:
Define your brand
Before brainstorming a potential business name, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your brand. Start by defining your brand’s values, mission, and target audience. Consider the unique selling points of your products or services and the emotions you want your brand to evoke. This foundational understanding will help guide your name-generation process.
Brainstorm
Keywords play a vital role in capturing the essence of your business. So you’ll want to Generate a list of keywords and phrases related to your brand, products, services, or industry. Use word association and mind mapping to expand your ideas. Consider different name types such as descriptive, acronymic, invented, or evocative. Also, think about the benefits you offer and the problems you solve. Include both general terms and specific words that resonate with your target audience. For example, if you’re opening a bakery, keywords like “delicious,” “freshly baked,” and “artisanal” could be on your list.
Keep it simple
Aim for a name that is easy to pronounce, spell, and remember. Shorter names tend to be more memorable and reduce the risk of mispronunciation or misspellings. Customers cannot refer your business to their family and friends if they don’t remember your company’s name.
Also, is the name easy for users to spell? This is the digital age, so your company name should be search engine friendly. Avoid complex or lengthy names that could confuse search engines or make it difficult for users to find your business online.
Consider brand name types
There are different types of brand names you can consider, each with its own advantages. Here are a few common types:
- Descriptive: These names clearly convey what your business does or offers. They are straightforward and easy to understand, but they may lack uniqueness. For example, “Cozy Home Furnishings” immediately communicates the nature of the business.
- Evocative: Evocative names evoke emotions or create a sense of imagery. They are often more memorable and can help build a strong brand personality. For example, “Blissful Haven” creates a sense of tranquility and comfort.
- Invented: Invented names are unique and have no specific meaning. They provide the opportunity to build a distinctive brand identity from scratch. Examples include “Google” and “Kodak.”
- Compound: Compound business names combine two or more words to form a new word. This type of name can be catchy and memorable, such as “Snapchat” or “YouTube.”
Use this list to find out which type of brand name aligns best with your brand identity and target audience.
Test your brand name and refine
Seek feedback from friends, other family members, or potential customers. Ensure the brand name resonates with your target audience and avoids any negative connotations or cultural misinterpretations.
Once you have a shortlist of potential brand names, test them with your target audience, friends, and family. Seek feedback on the names’ clarity, memorability, and overall appeal of the brand name. Consider conducting surveys or focus groups to gather more comprehensive feedback. Based on the input received, refine your list and narrow it down to a few top choices.
Remember, a brand name is a long-term investment, so choose wisely. Aim for a name that resonates with your target audience, reflects your brand’s personality, and sets you apart from the competition. By following these steps and putting thought into your brand name, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a strong and memorable brand presence.
Check for business name availability
Conduct a thorough search to ensure the business name isn’t already in use or trademarked. Verify domain name and social media handle availability for consistency across platforms.
Additionally, when you are selecting your business domain, take into consideration navigational searches. These searches are the traffic you’ll get when people search online for your company. It’s also the reason why you should try and utilize it as your URL.
Of course, But if your business name isn’t available as a .com, there are some excellent alternatives you can use. Also, if a domain name is taken, you can often add a verb to the name to make it work.
Consider getting related domains
While it’s always a good idea to select a top-tier domain like .com as your primary choice for a business name, it’s also a good idea to get related ones like .org and .net that feature your unique business name. That way, a competitor doesn’t snatch them up and ride on your coattails.
Legal considerations
Consult a legal expert to confirm that your chosen business name complies with local regulations and to secure necessary trademark protections. After all, what will keep someone from cloning your website if you have no protections in place?
You can also conduct a trademark search to ensure that your potential business name is not already trademarked or in use by another company. This step is crucial for avoiding legal conflicts and protecting your brand’s identity.
Utilize online trademark databases, consult legal professionals, and consider hiring a trademark attorney for comprehensive research and guidance. Taking the time to conduct a thorough trademark search can save you from potential legal headaches down the road.
Be patient
Finding the right company name for your physical or ecommerce store may take time, so don’t rush the process.
Be open to refining your ideas and allow your creative juices to flow. Remember, the journey to your own name and finding the perfect business name is unique for each entrepreneur.
By following these general guidelines and trusting your instincts, you’ll be well on your way to selecting a name that truly represents your brand and sets the stage for success.
How to Come Up with a Business Name
Here’s a quick look at how to name your business. The table below shows you the main steps and actions to take. This makes it easier to see everything at once.
| Step | Advice | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Align the name with your brand identity | Draft a list of adjectives and key phrases that describe your brand's personality, and use them as inspiration for potential names |
| 2 | Keep it simple and memorable | Test potential names by saying them aloud, and eliminate options that are difficult to pronounce or spell |
| 3 | Be versatile | Review your potential names and discard any that may restrict the growth or adaptability of your next business idea |
| 4 | Avoid using trendy terms or buzzwords | Review your list of potential names and remove any that rely heavily on trends or fads |
| 5 | Consider name types | Research and evaluate various name types, then categorize your potential names accordingly |
| 6 | Research competition and industry | Conduct a competitive analysis, noting successful naming strategies within your industry, and incorporate these insights into your brainstorming process |
| 7 | Seek feedback from others | Share your shortlist of potential names with a diverse group of people, and collect their feedback on clarity, memorability, and emotional impact |
| 8 | Ensure name availability | Perform thorough searches for existing businesses, trademarks, names of domains, and social media profiles to ensure your preferred name is available |
| 9 | Take your time | Set aside ample time to brainstorm, evaluate, and refine your list of potential names, ensuring you're confident in your final choice |
| 10 | Consult a professional | Research reputable naming consultants or agencies, and consider enlisting their help to refine your ideas or develop new naming options |
Next, let’s look closely at the steps for coming up with catchy business name ideas and simple action steps a new business owner can take toward each piece of advice. Each step should help new business owners come up with a list of great business name ideas and, ultimately, choose their new business names.
Align the name with your brand identity.
A successful business name should reflect your brand’s core values, mission, and unique selling proposition.
Entrepreneurs should consider the emotions and associations they want their customers to experience when they encounter their brand names. This is similar to how you might consider the psychology of colors when you create a logo.
Action step: Draft a list of adjectives and key phrases that describe your brand’s personality, and use them as inspiration for potential names.
Keep it simple and memorable.
A straightforward, easy-to-pronounce business name increases the likelihood of your small business target audiences remembering it and recommending your brand to others.
Avoid overly complex or lengthy names that may lead to confusion.
Action step: Test potential names by saying them aloud, and eliminate options that are difficult to pronounce or spell.
Be versatile.
A versatile name allows for future growth and expansion of your business. Avoid names that limit your offerings or geographic reach, as they may hinder long-term success.
Action step: Review your potential names and discard any that may restrict the growth or adaptability of your next business idea.
Avoid using trendy terms or buzzwords.
Although it may be tempting to incorporate current trends or buzzwords into your business name, doing so may cause your brand to feel dated as trends fade.
Instead, aim for a timeless name that will remain relevant.
Action step: Review your list of potential names and remove any that rely heavily on trends or fads.
Consider name types.
Business names can be descriptive, acronymic, invented, or evocative.
Each type has its advantages and drawbacks, so consider which best suits your brand’s identity and objectives. For example, creative business ideas may seek unique names, while a financial services provider may keep it professional.
Also, catchy names are often a hit. For instance, names like Yahoo and Zappos have tons of catchy appeal.
Action step: Create your business category. Research and evaluate various name types, then categorize your potential names accordingly.
Research competition and industry.
Analyzing your competitors and industry can provide valuable insights into naming trends and best practices. Look for gaps or opportunities to create a name that stands out in the market. For example, you could easily use the search bar on a search engine like Google to look specifically for how to come up with a winning restaurant name or food truck name ideas.
Action step: Conduct a competitive analysis, noting successful naming strategies within your industry, and incorporate these insights into your brainstorming process.
Seek feedback from others.
Gathering opinions from friends, family, or potential customers can help refine your name choices and identify any potential issues or misconceptions.
Action step: Share your shortlist of potential names with a diverse group of people, and collect their feedback on clarity, memorability, and emotional impact.
Ensure name availability.
Expanding on the tip: It’s essential to verify that your chosen name is not already in use, trademarked, or has an available domain and social handles.
Action step: Perform thorough searches for existing businesses, trademarks, names of domains, and social media profiles to ensure your preferred name is available.
Take your time.
Finding the perfect business name may require patience and persistence. Don’t rush the process or settle for a name that doesn’t feel right.
Action step: Set aside ample time to brainstorm, evaluate, and refine your list of potential names, ensuring you’re confident in your final choice.
Consult a professional.
If you’re struggling to find the perfect name, consider seeking the assistance of a naming consultant or agency.
Professionals can provide valuable insights and expertise to guide you through the naming process.
Action step: Research reputable naming consultants or agencies, and consider enlisting their help to refine your ideas or develop new naming options.1.
Check out this video byBrandmaster Academy for choosing an epic business name: How To Come Up With A Business Name (Brand Name Ideas, Examples & Strategy).
How to Register a Business Name
If you’re about to start a new business and feeling overwhelmed by the registration process, here’s a simplified comparison table that outlines the essential steps. It’ll help you see at a glance what you need to do to register your business name.
| Step | Description | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Choose a Business Structure | Your business structure impacts registration, taxes, and liability. | Decide whether your business will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. |
| 2. Research State Requirements | Your state has specific naming rules and registration procedures. | Consult your state's SOS website or a local attorney to understand these rules. |
| 3. Check Name Availability | You can't use a business name that's already in use. | Search your preferred name in your state's business registry database. Also, verify the availability of domain name and social media handles. |
| 4. Register a Fictitious Business Name (if applicable) | If you're using a name different from your legal name, you'll need to register it. | This is relevant if you're a sole proprietorship or partnership. File an application for a "Doing Business As" (DBA) or fictitious business name. |
| 5. Register Your Business Entity (if applicable) | Formal business entities need to register with the state's SOS. | This is relevant if you're forming an LLC, corporation, or other formal entity. Submit the required articles and pay a filing fee. |
| 6. Apply for an EIN | Most businesses need an EIN for tax purposes. | Apply for an EIN online on the IRS website. |
| 7. Register for State and Local Taxes | You may need to register for specific business taxes. | Research your state's tax requirements. Register for sales tax, employer taxes, or other business taxes as needed. |
| 8. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits | Different industries and locations have different licensing requirements. | Check federal, state, and local requirements. Obtain any necessary licenses or permits. |
| 9. File a Trademark (optional) | Filing a trademark can protect your business name nationwide. | This can involve the assistance of an attorney and includes a filing fee. |
| 10. Keep Your Registration Up-to-Date | Maintaining your registration requires ongoing tasks. | File annual reports and renew licenses and permits as required by your state and local laws. |
Now, let’s take a detailed look at the steps for registering the name. While specific requirements and processes may vary by state, this step-by-step guide outlines the general procedure for registering a business name in the United States:
Choose a business structure
Determine the legal structure of your business, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. The structure you choose will impact the registration process, taxes, and liability and protect your personal assets.
Research state requirements
Visit your state’s Secretary of State (SOS) website or consult a local attorney to understand the specific registration requirements naming rules and procedures applicable to your business structure and location.
Check name availability
Conduct a name search on your state’s business registry database to ensure your desired company name is not already in use or too similar to an existing business name. After all, you don’t want your company to have the same name as one of your competitors.
Verify the availability of your desired domain name and social media handles.
Register a fictitious business name (if applicable)
If you are operating as a sole proprietorship or partnership and plan to use a name different from your legal name, you may need to register a “Doing Business As” (DBA) or fictitious business name.
This process typically involves filing an application with your county clerk or state agency, paying a fee, and publishing a notice in a local newspaper.
Register your business entity (if applicable)
If you’re forming an LLC, corporation, or another formal business entity, you’ll need to register with your state’s SOS.
This usually involves the business entity submitting articles of organization (for an LLC) or articles of incorporation (for a corporation) and paying a filing fee.
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Obtain an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax purposes. This is necessary for most business structures, except for sole proprietorships without employees.
You can apply for an EIN online at the IRS website for free.
Register for state and local taxes
Depending on your state and local tax requirements, you may need to register for sales tax, employer taxes, or other business taxes.
Visit your state’s taxation website for specific details and registration procedures. You may also need to register your business in another state if you move or expand.
Obtain necessary licenses and permits
Depending on your industry and location, you may need various licenses or permits to operate legally.
Research federal, state, and local requirements to ensure you’re compliant with all regulations.
File a trademark (optional)
If you wish to protect your business name nationwide, consider filing for a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
This process may require the assistance of an attorney and involves a filing fee.
Keep your registration up-to-date
Maintain your company name registration by filing annual reports and renewing licenses and permits as required by your state and local laws.
Please note that this guide provides a general overview, and specific requirements may vary based on your business type, structure, and location.
It is highly recommended that you consult a local attorney or accountant to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
The 15 Best Business Name Generator Options
Stuck on how to come up with a good business name? You’re definitely not alone. After all, coming up with a business name is a very important decision.
Luckily, there are plenty of options for developing business name ideas. And they come in the form of business name generators. There is no shortage of these name generator sites that help you come up with business name ideas.
Here’s a look at the top 15 business name generators:
- Shopify Business Name Generator: A popular free business name generator tool that generates name ideas and checks domain availability, especially useful for e-commerce businesses.
- Namelix: An AI-powered name generator that creates short, catchy, and brandable names, complete with available names for domains.
- Lean Domain Search: This business name generator focuses on finding available names for domains based on your keyword input, helping you discover unique and memorable business names with matching domain names.
- NameStation: NameStation generates business name ideas using keywords, word combinations, and domain availability checks. The platform also offers a community-driven naming contest feature to crowdsource name suggestions.
- Novanym: This name generator provides unique business names, available domain names, and professionally designed logos.
- Anadea Business Name Generator: Generates business name suggestions based on your inputted keywords.
- Wordlab: Offers a wide range of business name generators, including one specifically for business names.
- Brandroot: This business name generator helps build brand recognition by creating unique and brandable business names with available names for domains and customizable logos.
- Business Name Generator (BNG): Offers a simple interface to generate business name ideas based on your keywords and industry.
- Names4Brands: Generates random business names and allows you to customize the name based on specific criteria, such as word length and language.
- Panabee: This name generator offers business name ideas, domain name suggestions and checks domain availability.
- BrandBucket: This business name generator provides a curated list of brandable names of domains, including premium domains and unique business name ideas.
- DomainWheel: Offers business name ideas and available domain name suggestions, with a focus on creativity and wordplay.
- NameSnack: An AI-powered business name generator that creates name suggestions based on your keywords and provides available domain names.
- Zyro Business Name Generator: This creative name generator creates unique business name ideas based on your chosen keywords and industry, ensuring the availability of corresponding domain names for your potential business names.
How to Come Up with a Business Name FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about coming up with a business name.
What are some catchy business names?
Catchy business names are memorable and unique and often evoke a positive emotional response from customers. They can be creative, use wordplay, or have a strong connection to the brand’s identity.
Here are some examples of catchy business names. These are some of the most iconic brands right now:
Netflix: A combination of “Internet” and “flicks,” implying a service that provides movies online.
Fitbit: A blend of “fit” and “bit,” suggesting a small device that helps users stay fit.
Groupon: A portmanteau of “group” and “coupon,” reflecting the company’s group discount business model.
Etsy: A playful, invented name that evokes creativity and craftsmanship.
MailChimp: A quirky, memorable name that combines “mail” and “chimp,” emphasizing the fun and approachable nature of their email marketing platform.
These examples showcase the power of catchy and creative business names, which can effectively capture attention and leave a lasting impression on customers.
What to avoid in naming a business?
When naming a business, there are several key factors to avoid to ensure your chosen name is effective and beneficial to your brand. Here are some tips on what not to include in your business name:
- Steer clear of names that are too long, complex, or difficult to pronounce, as they may lead to confusion and reduce memorability.
- Avoid using trendy terms or buzzwords that may become outdated quickly, instead aiming for a timeless name.
- Refrain from selecting names that limit your business’s growth, scope, or adaptability.
- It’s also important to avoid potential legal issues by ensuring your chosen name is not already in use, trademarked, or too similar to an existing business name.
- Lastly, be cautious of names with unintended negative connotations, as they may harm your brand’s image.
What are the recent trends in business names?
Recent trends in business names reflect the evolving preferences and values of customers and the marketplace. Some noteworthy trends include:
Mash-ups and portmanteaus
Combining two words or concepts into one unique name is a popular approach. Examples include Instagram (instant + telegram) and Pinterest (pin + interest).
Misspellings and creative spellings
Intentional misspellings or unconventional spellings can make a name stand out, such as Flickr, Tumblr, and Lyft.
Use of technology-related terms
With the rise of tech companies, names incorporating tech-related terms or concepts have become increasingly popular. Examples include Salesforce, TechCrunch, and CyberArk.
Simple, descriptive names
Names that directly convey the business’s purpose or function have gained traction. Examples include Dollar Shave Club, The Honest Company, and Blue Apron.
Made-up or invented names
Unique, invented names can create a strong brand identity and are often easily trademarked. Examples include Spotify, Zillow, and Venmo.
Evocative names
Names that elicit an emotional response or convey a specific feeling have become popular. Examples include Evernote, Nest, and Serenity Spa.
Geo-specific names
Incorporating a location into the business name can create a strong local identity. Examples include Seattle’s Best Coffee and Brooklyn Brewery.
Minimalist, single-word names
Simple, one-word names can be powerful and memorable, such as Apple, Slack, and Tesla.
Use of suffixes
Adding popular suffixes like “-ify,” “-ly,” or “-io” to create brandable names has become a common trend. Examples include Shopify, Grammarly, and Dribbble.
These trends highlight the diverse approaches to creating modern, appealing business names that resonate with customers and stand out in the market.
Should you name a business after yourself?
There’s no rule against incorporating your own name into your business name. Several well-known brands use the creator of the company’s name.
One example is Boeing, named after its founder, William Boeing. Another is Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, named after its two founders, Ben Cohen & Jerry Greenfield.
However, naming a business after yourself has both advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences, goals, and the nature of your business.
Advantages:
- Personal connection: Naming your business after yourself can create a strong personal connection with your brand and convey a sense of authenticity and trustworthiness.
- Legacy: Your name becomes synonymous with the business, potentially creating a lasting legacy and personal reputation within your industry.
Disadvantages:
- Limited scalability: If your business expands or pivots, a personal name may not be as adaptable or relevant, possibly limiting your brand’s growth potential.
- Difficult to sell: Prospective buyers may be less inclined to purchase a business named after the original owner, as it may be more challenging to rebrand or dissociate from the founder’s identity.
- Privacy concerns: Using your name as the business name may expose you to potential privacy issues and make it more difficult to separate your personal and professional life.
Before making a decision, consider the long-term vision for your business and the message you want to convey to your customers.
If your personal reputation is a significant factor in your business’s success, and you are comfortable with the potential drawbacks, naming your business after yourself could be a viable option.
However, if scalability, a potential sale of the business, or privacy concerns are significant factors, you may want to explore alternative naming strategies.
How do you create a catchy business name?
When you’re trying to figure out how to come up with a catchy name for your company, know that it involves a blend of creativity, strategy, and an understanding of your target audience.
Here are some tips to help you come up with a memorable and appealing name:
- Keep it simple: A short, easy-to-pronounce name is more likely to stick in people’s minds. It’s also more likely to fit on marketing materials, from online ads to reusable shopping bags. Aim for no more than three syllables, and avoid complex words or phrases
- Be unique: Here, you’ll want to use one-of-a-kind words instead of common words. Avoid generic or overused terms. In a nutshell, stand out from the competition by choosing a name that distinguishes your business from others in your industry.
- Use wordplay: Employing puns, alliteration, or rhyming words can make your business name memorable and fun. Examples include Dunkin’ Donuts and PayPal.
- Evoke emotion: A name that triggers an emotional response or evokes a vivid image can make a lasting impression. Consider the feelings or ideas you want to associate with your brand and incorporate those elements into the name.
- Be descriptive: A name that conveys your business’s purpose or function can help customers understand your offerings. However, avoid being too narrow, as it may limit your future growth or expansion.
- Consider your target audience: Understand the preferences and values of your target audience and select a name that resonates with them.
- Test the name: Gather feedback from friends, family, or customers to ensure your chosen name is appealing and easy to understand.
- Check availability: Make sure your desired name is not already in use or trademarked by another business. Also, verify that a suitable domain name is available for your online presence. Check into how to buy a business name if your choice is taken but not currently in use. Some website owners may also be willing to sell a domain name if you reach out.
By following these tips and carefully considering the message you want to convey with your business name idea, you can create a catchy and memorable brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
Why do you need a unique business name?
There are several compelling reasons you need a unique business name to ensure the success and longevity of your brand.
A distinctive name sets your business apart from competitors, establishes a strong brand story, and creates a lasting impression on customers.
- Stand out in the market
- Easier to trademark
- Enhance brand identity
- Avoid confusion
- Improve online presence
- Encourage word-of-mouth marketing
What is the significance of using business cards in coming up with a business name?
Business cards can serve as a source of inspiration when brainstorming a business name. They often include essential information about a company, such as its logo, tagline, and contact details. Analyzing various cards for your business can help spark ideas, trigger creativity, and provide insights into effective naming strategies.
Image: Depositphotos
