Article Advise

submitted: Apr 30th 2008 | by: LindaP.Morton | Total views: 3 | Word Count: 704 | |

The right business name ideas help you to get your business name right the first time.

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

Business Names: Idea 1 - Create numerous name options.

Business Names: Idea 2 - Choose a name that reflects your business.

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

Business Names: Idea 4 - Select a name that leaves a positive image with your target market.

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

Business Names: Idea 6 - Research your target market.

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

Business Names: Idea 1 - Think Of As Many Name Options As Possible

You can't have too many business name options. Ideas won't all withstand the elimination process. So list as many as possible in a brainstorming fashion. Get ideas everywhere, but list at least ten business names ideas.

Business Names: Idea 2 - Choose A Name That Expresses What Your Business Does

Does your name really represent your business? Are you so well known that your name will be an asset? If you answered "yes" to either question, you may want to use your name in your business' name. If you answered both questions "no", then don't.

If your last name is "Small" and you specialize in renting small equipment, then you can use "Small Equipment Rental." However, if you want to also rent large equipment, it will limit you.

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.

To demonstrate what I mean, my first business name limited my business. It was Sulton Books. "Sulton" didn't add anything positive to the business name, and "Books" pigeon holed it into just books.

I ended up having to rename my business, partially because of the terrorist attacks in Sept. 2001. I needed to rid my business of the negative connotation of "Sulton." I took that opportunity to select a name, "Best Books Plus" that enhanced the business with a more positive connotation and a greater ability for expansion.

Business Names: Idea 4 - Select A Name That Leaves A Positive Image With 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 - Conduct Target Market Research

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 - Learn The Connotations And Hear The Sounds Of Each Name

A good business name will create a positive image of your business. It also sounds good.

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.

Today we live in a multi-cultural nation and world. It's vital to know what words mean across cultures to avoid mistakes like that of "Nova." The name of this American-produced car actually meant "no go" in some languages.

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. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

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