How to Name a Business

How to name a business. Finding the right business name can be a challenge. Your business name is your brand and is a vital part of your marketing strategy. Use these expert guidelines to help you choose the best name for your business.

Select your name based on your core business

Your business name must tell potential customers what you do. It is of little use having a business name that does not reflect what your business is about. If your core business is photography then your business name needs to tell people that. This is why using only your own name can be a disadvantage. The business name Kay Green Inc provides no information about your business or what your product or service is. However Kay Green Portrait Photography does.

Identify the qualities you want your business associated with

How do you want your business to be perceived? What is your business mission? Write down the adjectives and adverbs that epitomize the qualities you want your business to be known for. For example is it reliability, quality, exclusivity, excitement or caring that you are trying to promote? Your business name should reflect and reinforce these qualities. If you get stuck use an online Thesaurus to find the words you want to describe your business. By emphasizing these qualities in your business name you set yourself apart from the competition.

Choose a name that is easy to pronounce, spell and remember

When understanding how to name a business it is key that your business name not be complicated and tricky to say or write. It should not require too much explanation but should rather be self explanatory. Using foreign words, initials or a string of numbers is not advised. People prefer words they can relate to and understand. Names are only memorable if they strike a chord with people. Short and simple is better than long and complex.

Choose words that have positive visual associations

A positive mental image should come to mind when customers hear your business name. People see pictures when they read or hear a name. A number of words have a neutral or negative connotation and should not be used when choosing a business name. For example if your focus is on affordability avoid using the word "cheap" as this implies a lack of quality. Rather use words like budget, affordable and economical.

Try out your business names on friends and family

Once you have come up with a couple of possible business names you should ask friends and family for feedback. Ask them if the name is catchy and memorable and what image or message it conveys about your business. Take time choosing and researching your business name - you have to live with this name.

Remember to register your business name once you have decided. Have a couple of possible names as your business name may already be taken. How to name a business is an important step in setting up your own business. Your business name is your brand and can be a powerful marketing tool for your business. Find out more about choosing the right business name at Business Names Ideas.

Julia Derby has many years experience working in small business development. She left formal employment to be a work at home mom and has successfully started and developed a number of home businesses. Her free website My Home Business Ideas provides good ideas and practical advice for people who want to start a home based business and enjoy all the benefits of making money at home.