4 Tools to Help You Choose the Right Business Name

You are starting a business. There’s just one thing that you haven’t figured out – the name. Maybe you’re flirting with a few ideas, or maybe you’re drawing a complete blank. If finding the correct name seems like one of the most important aspects of a startup, that’s because it is. Your business’s name is the face of your company. You want it to stick with customers and represent you well.

Fortunately, there are tools to help you make this decision. A business name generator like Namify helps you find unique names that are available as domains and social media handles. Here are 4 other tools you can use to choose the right business name:

1. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Search

Your business name must be unique so that customers associate it with you and only you. There are legal issues to consider, as well. You should check to see if your desired name is already registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) by going to the USPTO website. This is a quick step that you can do now that could save you from costly legal action in the future.

2. Secretary of State Business Search

In addition to checking your name with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, you should also search the Secretary of State website of the state you plan on doing most of your business in. On this site, you can find out if there is already a company registered under that or a similar name.

3. Brand Personality Quiz

Think about your favorite brands. Now, think about what characteristics you most associate with those brands. A successful company usually has a clearly defined business personality that separates it from competitors.

When choosing your brand name, you should pick something that encapsulates the qualities you want to project. Not sure how to define your business’s character? There are many online brand personality quizzes available to help you evaluate the characteristics that most define your company. You can use the results with a business name generator to assess which are the best fit for your company.

4. Search Engine Results

You want to get your name right from the start. Changing your name later can be very costly. You risk losing the recognition you have already grown, and you will likely have to replace your marketing materials. That’s why it’s important to make sure you know everything you can about a potential name.

You should always type any name you’re considering into a search engine and check the results. This may seem like an obvious tool to use, but it is too important to dismiss. You may find competitors with that or similar names. You may find that the primary words are already associated with a popular trend. A thorough review of search engine results will also help you avoid names that will draw controversy or strong associations (unless, of course, that’s what you’re going for).

Choosing a business name doesn’t have to be difficult. If you’re searching for the words that will represent your company, try a business name generator and these tools to guide you to the right name that will allow your business to stand out and grow.

Also Read: Why Should You Trademark Your Business Name