Naming your business should be one of the fun and exciting parts of starting your own business, but often I find people struggle and feel overwhelmed with this process. (By the way, if I’m being honest here, I was one of those people.)
Things to consider when thinking about using your name as your business name.
- No one else is already using the same name.
- If your name is unique and easy to spell.
- If someone is using the same name, can you use a variation, such as using an initial.
TIP: If you have a name that can be spelled numerous ways be mindful. This can be confusing and may cause challenges with clients finding you. Carefully take in all considerations before going this route.
TIP: Use this option only if you are totally intent on using your name.
TIP: Research the reputation the name similar to yours, as it can affect you based upon similarity of name. Reconsider using your name, especially if they are in the same profession.
ex: John Smith Photography
ex: John A. Smith Photography
Here are some tips when choosing a DBA (Doing Business As) for your business name.
- Consider the length & spelling of the name you create. Not only for speaking & writing purposes, but also think about the following. Some are repeats from above.
- Easy to spell
- Are there multiple ways to spell your business name, or different ways to spell the same word. (I personally learned this one the hard way naming my first business. Ugh!)
- Remember your client has to type your business name as a web address and email address. Make it short and to the point without getting cutesy. That could work against you too.
- Type your business name as a web address. While the fabulous name you came up with might look great the way it’s going to be viewed most of the time, making sure it looks good as a web address is also incredibly important.
Bad Example: www.supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.com or www.myuniquebusinessnamephotography.com
Now you might have laughed, or rolled your eyes about this, but I see this all the time. I understand the importance of wanting to add titles to your business name (ie Photography, Construction, Bookkeeping, Coaching, etc.) but typing the out is a pain for you and your clients. Keep is Simple Silly. ♥
Example Business Name: Refresh It Design
Example Business Web Address: www.refreshitdesign.com
YIKES! Do you see the fatal flaw with this business name as a web address?
Check to see if you name is available on multiple platforms. I like https://namechk.com. It’s a one stop shop for searching your business name to see what’s available on what platform.
These are only a few tips to help you with creating a fabulous name for your business. Let me know what you come up with, and hopefully this helps. If you need additional assistance please say hello. I would love to help.