Tips
on choosing a business name
With thousands of business names out there
the process of choosing a business name, may be all, but
easy. A few tips are shared for choosing a business name.
Step 1
Your first step in choosing a business name should
be to reflect on what sound you want to create with the
name. Keep in mind that Fairytale Web Design may sound great
at first, but will you sign up with a company for a large
deal if that is the name? You should thus have a name that
rolls easy on the tongue, but will be able to grow with
your business even when it is no longer a small business.
Step
2
Look for alternatives
as well and keep in mind that spelling may be a problem.
There is nothing more frustrating than having to spell and
spell the name repeatedly because the client is not sure
whether it should have one or two b's.
Step 3
Check the company registrar list to
see whether the name is still available as you cannot select
a name that is already registered for the same kind of business.
Step 4
Go through the Yellow Pages, telephone
directories and the Internet to make sure your name is unique.
Step 5
Check for translations
of the name and any connotations with animals, religious
groups etc. before settling on the name.
Step 6
Keep in mind that names
starting on A will be listed in the business directories,
telephone directories and guides first. That is a plus point
to keep in mind.
Step 7
Ask for opinions when choosing
a business name.
Step 8
Once satisfied, register
the business name, open the business account, and then register
a domain with the business name. Now also register it as
a trademark to prevent others from using it.
What to avoid when
choosing a business name
Tempting as it may be stay away from family
names and names that limit you to a specific location such
as Parktown outfitters as this will mean that should you
relocate that you are stuck with a name that is not relevant
anymore. Don't limit the name to a small field - think globally
and please don't make it difficult to pronounce. Consult
as many sources as you can before choosing the business
name as the name will play an integral part in your branding.