Seven Business Names: Ideas That Get It Right The First Time

Good business name ideas help you to create names that will serve your business well for a lifetime.

Seven business names ideas that will help you get it right the first time include:

Business Names: Idea 1 - Think of as many name options as possible.

Business Names: Idea 2 - Choose a name that expresses what your business does.

Business Names: Idea 3 - Choose a name that enables your business to grow in different directions.

Business Names: Idea 4 - Choose a name that makes a positive impression on your business' target market.

Business Names: Idea 5 - Determine if any name options are taken.

Business Names: Idea 6 - Query your target market.

Business Names: Idea 7 - Consider the connotations and sound of the words for each option.

Business Names: Idea 1 - Start With Many Name Options

Start with lots of business names. Ideas will be eliminated as you process through to determining the best one. So make a long list of name options. Ten options will do, but more are better.

Business Names: Idea 2 - Choose A Name That Reflects Your Business

Unless you are fortunate enough for your name to truly represent what your business does, or to be a well-known celebrity within your industry, don't name your business after yourself.

If your last name is "Smooth" and you've discovered an herbal mixture that smooths wrinkled skin, then go ahead and use your last name in your business name. But you probably wouldn't want to if your own a construction business.

Business Names: Idea 3 - Select A Name That Allows Expansion Of Your Business.

Don't choose a name that won't grow and expand with your business. Your business name's ideas should be broad enough to cover expansion.

I learned this the hard way and had to rename my business within its first five years. I originally named it Sulton Books. "Sulton" didn't add any value or positive image to the business, and "Books" kept me from expanding into other information products.

After Sept. 11, 2001, the name developed a negative connotation. So I had to change it, incurring additional expenses. I renamed it "Best Books Plus," which enhances the business and incorporates more than books.

Business Names: Idea 4 - Be Certain That The Name Relates Positively To Your Target Market

Consider how each business name idea will impress target market members. This requires knowing as much as possible about your target market members so you can select a final name that they will like.

However, remember that you're trying to avoid having to rename your business in the future. So don't link your business name to a target market to the extent that you can't expand into new markets without changing your business name.

Business Names: Idea 5 - Conduct Trademark Research

You need research to assure that none of your business name ideas are already taken.

Search for the "United States Patent and Trademark Office" on one of the search engines. The correct site will end in "gov." Once there, you can search for each name option to see if it is a part of a trademark. Eliminate all options that are taken to avoid possible suits and certain renaming of your business.

Business Names: Idea 6 - Query Your Target Market

Next detrmine which ideas that your target market members like best. Ask them what first comes to mind when you mention each business name.

While you're at it, show them your product and get their reactions to it. Sometimes their reactions will provide new name ideas.

Business Names: Idea 7 - Consider The Connotations And Sounds Of The words In Each Business Name Idea

You should consider the connotations and sound of the words in each because a name that sounds pleasant and flows well will generally work best.

And don't forget that words' meaning vary in different cultures. What you consider positive in your culture may not be so in another culture.

You don't want to make the mistake of a major American car company who named a model "Nova". When they attempted to sell it overseas, they learned that the name there meant "No Go". Obviously they didn't sell many there.

Summary

By considering each of these seven business name ideas, you can pick a business name that will serve your business well throughout its life.

About the Author

Read more information on Target Markets and learn what best appeals to yours. You will find completed Target Market Profiles. Linda P. Morton writes on many marketing topics. This and other unique content 'business names ideas' articles are available with free reprint rights.

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