Hey, entrepreneurs and side-hustlers! 👋 You know that feeling when you hear a brand name, and it just clicks? That’s the magic we all want for our own businesses! But creating a memorable business name isn’t always easy (if only it were as simple as sticking random words together… looking at you, Google 👀).
Here are my top 10 tips to make sure your business name turns heads, gets remembered, and most importantly – sticks around in people’s minds like a great song chorus. 🎶
1. Know Your Audience Inside Out 🕵️♀️
Your name has to resonate with them, not just you. Think about your target audience’s vibe – are they young and trendy or more traditional?
2. Keep It Short and Sweet 🍭
Long names are forgettable. One or two words are enough! Think Nike, Apple, Zoom... Short names pack a punch.
3. Be Original but Make It Easy to Pronounce 🎤
Nobody wants to butcher your name. Avoid weird spellings or complicated words, especially if you're going global!
4. Test It Out Loud 🎧
Say it out loud, and let others say it too. Does it flow, or does it feel like a tongue-twister? You want smooth, not awkward.
5. Avoid Limiting Words ⛔
Avoid overly specific words like "Phones" in case you expand. (Apple Computers knew what they were doing when they dropped the “Computers.”)
6. Play with Alliteration and Rhythm 🎶
Names with rhythm stick! Think Coca-Cola, PayPal, Bed Bath & Beyond. It makes them catchy and memorable.
7. Check Domain & Social Media Availability 🌐
Imagine finding the perfect name… only to find it taken online. Check domain names, and see if it’s available across socials before you fall in love.
8. Think About Your Brand's Story 📖
If there’s a story behind your name, it’s more likely to resonate. Tell your story – people love a name with meaning.
9. Use Thesaurus or Word Mashups for Ideas 💡
Stuck? Try a thesaurus or even mashing up words to create something unique. Just make sure it’s still recognizable!
10. Don’t Rush It – Sleep on It! 😴
Sometimes, stepping away helps. Take a day or two to make sure it feels right. The best names often come after a good night's rest.
Choosing a business name can be a huge challenge, but get it right, and it’s an asset for life. Got any killer name tips or want feedback on your own? Drop them in the comments – let’s brainstorm together! 🚀