Image: San Diego Financial Literacy Center

Your startup needs a name. And we know setting the right name can be an important decision rather than just a frivolous task.

Do not underestimate the title of your company. The name of your business represents you. Your name should be able to convey the expertise, value and uniqueness of the product or service you have developed. When the name of your company can easily communicate your to customers about your business, the less effort you will need to explain it.

Therefore, that name that you choose for your business can have a tremendous impact on how customers and investors view you.

Once you pick your company name, it is hard to change the name to avoid any confusion for your clients. Hence, it is best to pick the right name right from the start. So here in this article, we’ve listed a few tips to think through before you name your business.

Long business name is a turn-off

You want to keep it short and simple. No one is going to remember a long business name.

So, try to limit the name to two syllables. This way, you open up the possibility of turning your name into a verb such as “Google me”.

Avoid unusual spellings

You might want to stand out with an unusual spelling for your business like ‘Preenting Service’ instead of ‘Printing Service’. But this can cause your customers trouble when they try to google your business unable to find you due to the unfamiliar spelling.

Stay with traditional word spelling that can easily be spelled by customers. Avoid using hyphens and other special characters.

Don’t box yourself in.

Avoid naming your business with geographic locations or generic names. For instance, Damansara Jaya (Your Product). The name could limit you to expand from its geographic location and product line.

With these specifics, customers will be confused if you expand your business to different locations or add on to your product line.

SEO Factor

You also need to consider the Search Engine Optimization (SEO) factor. You would want your company to be on top of the search engines or be easily found at least.

If you’re going to use a proper noun for your name, you should think about how that decision will impact SEO. Choosing a common term such as “Bell,” would make it hard to place your company on the first page of search results on search engines.

Check the availability for the domain

Your company definitely needs a website. And you’ll most likely your company’s name as the domain name.

If you’re considering a name, make sure to check the availability of your desired URL first.

You might want to consider the extension factor too. Most people type “.com” and won’t try “.net” or “.biz.”. It’ll be best if you can find “.com” extension for your website. If they remember your name, but forget the extension, your customers won’t be able to find you.