How to choose the perfect name for your start-up
)
Posted: Mon 20th Jan 2025
Naming your start-up is one of the most exciting — and daunting — parts of building your business.
It’s the moment your idea starts to feel real, a chance to plant your flag in the marketplace and tell the world: “Here I am!” But it’s also a process that can make even the calmest business owner feel like they’re herding cats.
Your brand name can grab attention, spark curiosity and create an emotional connection with your audience. Done wrong, it can confuse, mislead or simply fade into the background.
So, let’s explore how to find a name that ticks all the boxes and sets your start-up on the path to success.
Why your business name is so important
Your business name is the first impression your brand makes. It sets the tone, communicates your values and sparks recognition. A strong name gives you an edge in a crowded marketplace — it’s easier to market, easier to remember and easier to love.
Think of your name as your brand’s foundation. It needs to be solid enough to support your growth and adaptable enough to work across different platforms and contexts. And let’s be honest, if your name doesn’t stand out, why should your customers remember it?
Watch this webinar to discover what makes a good (and bad) brand name – what to aim for and avoid:
Essentials of a great brand name
Here’s your checklist for crafting a name that works. The checklist is split into four sub-categories: Inventive qualities, strategic qualities, cultural qualities and technical qualities.
Score your names using this score sheet. Remember no name will score 100% on all criteria, but you can use this sheet to whittle down your long list to a short list.
1. Inventive qualities
These first three criteria can be considered foundational benchmarks. Names that clearly lack these qualities will be quickly struck off as you develop your naming shortlist.
Memorable: If your name isn’t easy to remember, it won’t stick. A great name lodges in people’s minds like a catchy tune. You can use tools like rhyme and alliteration to make your name more memorable and remember that shorter names are easier to recall than longer ones
Simple: Simplicity will aid memorability. Does it look good in a logo, on a business card or as part of a website? Names with awkward spellings or visual clutter can look amateurish. Your name should be easy to say, spell and pronounce
Unique: The approach and construct of your brand name will influence how ‘unique’ your name is. You can look at the concept of uniqueness in two ways:
One, is the word entirely made up and abstract (like for example, ice cream brand Haagen Dazs) and two, is the name unique in your industry and among your peers?
2. Strategic qualities
These are great qualities to aim for after you have ensured your name is memorable, simple and unique. Meaning, imagery and versatility in a brand name can be used to strengthen the association of a brand name with the larger ideas and concepts the brand wishes to be understood for.
Meaningful: A name with a story or purpose behind it will resonate more deeply with your audience. It’s an opportunity to weave your mission and values into your identity
Visual: If your brand name can evoke some visual imagery, this can often be expressed well in a logo design and other elements of your brand identity. Although not essential, it is certainly a bonus
Versatile: Can your name grow with your business? A name that feels tied to a single product or trend might hold you back as your offerings evolve
3. Cultural qualities
This is an opportunity to sense-check your name for suitability and avoid any negative (slang) associations.
Free of negative connotations: Double-check meanings, slang and translations to ensure your name doesn’t accidentally offend or confuse — especially if you plan to operate internationally
Audience appeal: Your name should connect with your target audience. What speaks to them? What grabs their attention?
Industry-appropriate: While creativity is crucial, your name should still make sense in your sector. It’s all about striking the right balance between standing out and fitting in
4. Technical qualities
Social and domain-friendly: While having your ideal social handles or domain name is helpful, don’t let this hold you back. Creative workarounds, like adding your location or an industry word, can solve most issues
Legally viable: Run a trademark search early on to avoid legal trouble. An experienced trademark professional can save you time, money and stress. This should cost you in the region of £350 plus VAT and will give you peace of mind
Common pitfalls to avoid
When naming your start-up, avoid these common mistakes:
Rushing the process: Good names take time. A rushed decision might lead to trademark issues, customer confusion or a costly rebrand down the road
Obsessing over domain names too soon: Many great names get scrapped early because their exact domain isn’t available. Don’t fall into this trap. Domain names can often be tweaked to include keywords or location-based terms, giving you flexibility without compromising your brand
Overcomplicating it: The best names are clear, concise and focused. Avoid trying to cram too many ideas into one word or phrase
How to get started
Define your brand personality: What do you want people to feel when they hear your name? Are you playful, serious, innovative or nostalgic? Your name should reflect your brand’s unique vibe
Understand your audience: Who are you speaking to? Your name should resonate with your target market and make them feel like you “get” them
Go for quantity first: Start with quantity over quality. Throw every idea onto the table, from the logical to the completely bonkers. You can refine and filter later, but the initial phase should be creative and unrestrained
Think long-term: Will your name still work in five years? What about 10? Make sure it can grow with your business and stand the test of time
Final thoughts
Naming your start-up is equal parts creativity and strategy. It’s a chance to lay the groundwork for your brand’s future success, so give it the time and care it deserves. With a strong name, you’ll not only turn heads — you’ll capture hearts.
Relevant resources
You might also like…
