Tips For A Business Name
A business name can can play a big role in the ultimate success or failure of the entity. Regrettably, many people fail to give time to think about it before moving forward. There are several factors to consider including something memorable, a name related to your industry and, possibly, the availability of the domain name.
Choosing a business name is like getting married. You are gonna have to stick with it till the bitter end. It is likely a prospect will need to check out your ad and business name at least 22 times prior to doing any business with you. Once they tie up your business with a certain name, making a change will be unfavorable. Once you select something, stay with it.
Naming Your Business:
If you are going to be married to your business name, you have to make sure that the bride isn’t already married to someone else. There are four important issues to think about.
First, you must determine whether the name is being used in your state. The Secretary of State handles the names of all corporations, LLCs and partnerships. Most also have a web site where you can conduct name searches. Even if you are a sole proprietor, you should take a look at the name against those already registered in the state database. If the name is not available, you will need to consider a different one.
Assuming the name passed with the Secretary of State, you should take a look at it against existing trademarks file with the Patent and Trademark Office. The “PTO” maintains an online database. As with the Secretary of State, you can administer an online search to make sure no other business is using it.
Currently, most businesses incorporate a web site as part of their business model. If you are in this boat, you need to verify if the business name is available as a domain. If it is, you should acquire it right away. If not, you can either change your business name again or concentrate on a domain name incorporating your service or product instead of the business name.
Avoiding Problems:
You business could be devastated if you ignore these precautionary steps. Think of the negative impact on your business should the name be changed a couple of years down the line. Take a deep breath before you choose a business name. Like a spouse, it can only result in a good or bad choice.
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