What’s in a name? Everything – when it comes to your brand, at least. The domain you choose will be the keyword people use to search for your website, the name that people associate with your business or your product and the word or words that represent your company image. Once you establish your brand domain name, it will be difficult to change – take it as seriously as you do your logo or your slogan.
Your brand name will be the word that buyers use to search for you online – make it a good one!
Make Sure it is Original
The first rule of business names, brand names, corporation names or domain names is to make sure they aren’t already taken. Names are supposed to make your brand stand out, which is difficult if you’re sharing your name with someone else. Also, it is illegal and unethical. Checking for taken brand names is fairly easy – especially if it’s a domain name. If someone else is already using the domain name you want, that domain name simply won’t be for sale.
Keep it Short
As discussed in the article “7 Mistakes to Avoid When Naming Your Business,” avoid names that are too long. Names should lend themselves to URLs, as well as to social media profiles, business cards and other branding elements. There is no set number of letters or characters, but for reference, four of the top 10 Fortune 500 companies in the world are Apple, Chevron, Walmart and General Motors.
Embed Meaning Within the Name
The best names are the ones that indicate the product in either the spelling or pronunciation. Microsoft, for example, is one of the most famous and easily recognizable brands in existence. It is a blend of abbreviations that stands for “microcomputer” and “software.”
Consider Using a Generator
Business name generators can help entrepreneurs pick business or domain names that are relevant, easily searchable, that can be optimized with SEO and that, of course, are not already taken. If nothing else, business name generators can be a good place to start.
Keep your Name Short, Relevant and Original
The name of your business will dictate how easy or difficult it is for customers to search for you online and to locate you on social media – but it will also be the word or phrase that buyers will associate with your business. Keep your name simple, short, easy to spell and easy to remember. If you’re able, embed meaning into the name so that it reflects what you do or what you sell. Don’t be afraid to use a generator, at least as a jumping-off point – and always make sure the name you choose is yours and yours alone.