Branding is an integral part of any business, big or small. It separates you from your competitors and makes people think of you first when they want to buy your products or services. But how do you know what brand name will work best for your company?
How can you ensure that it’s memorable and easy to spell? These are just a few questions that many business owners struggle with when it comes time to create their own unique identity. You’d get all your answers in this article.
This blog post will cover everything you need to know about brand name selection and how it affects your marketing strategy. Let’s get started!
What Is Brand Naming?
Defining a brand name is vital to understanding how brand naming works. A brand name is a well-known name that represents a specific product or service.
The name of a brand reflects the image of quality, creativity, and excitement of the brand. It is “the emotional response a person or customer has after hearing about and seeing a product or service.”
Brand naming is not just about choosing a catchy word or phrase that describes what your company does; it’s about creating an identity that will resonate with customers. They should remember who you are and why they should do business with you.
This is important because many consumers make decisions based on their feelings toward a brand rather than its features or price points.
How a Brand Name Affects Your Business Strategy
A strong brand name can set your company apart from its competitors, increase customer loyalty and sales, and help build trust with new clients.
You will have difficulty building a brand if you choose a name already used by another company or trademarked. This can be avoided by researching if the name is available before you start using it.
A brand name can also help you identify your target market and increase sales by making it easier for customers to find what they want. Moreover, a firm business name can help you expand and grow your company in the future.
For example, suppose you’re launching a new product or service. In that case, consumers may be hesitant to try something they’ve never heard of before. However, if your brand name is well-known and respected within your industry, it will be easier for you to get media coverage and attract more customers.
When you’re ready to choose a name for your business, consider how it will affect your marketing and branding strategies. A good brand name should be:
- Memorable.
- Unique.
- Easy to spell and pronounce
Types of Brand Names
The many forms of brand names listed below will give you an idea of how you want to name your brand based on how you want it to sound to your consumers and the public.
Customer-focused Names
These are brand names that are customer-focused. They usually describe the benefit or quality of the product or service. Examples include “Quick and Easy,” “Healthy Choice,” and “World’s Best.” They can attract new customers because they provide clear information about what you do.
Evocative Names
These are brand names that use images or words that suggest an emotion. Examples include “Imagine,” “Inspire,” and “Evolution.” Evocative names can effectively attract new customers because they appeal to consumers’ emotions, which are often the main drivers behind their purchasing decisions.
Descriptive Names
These are brand names that use words to describe what the company does. Examples include “Computer World,” “Home Improvement,” and “Electronic Center.” Descriptive names can attract new customers because they provide transparent information about what you do. Still, they’re not as effective at inspiring positive emotions or creating an image in consumers’ minds.
Invented Names
These brand names don’t describe what you do or how you do it but instead use made-up words. Examples include “Apple,” “Google,” and “LinkedIn.” Invented names can attract new customers because they’re unique and memorable. Still, they’re not as effective at providing clear information about your company or industry.
Founder’s Names
These brand names use the founder’s name as a prefix or suffix. Examples include “McDonald’s,” “Coke,” and “Ford.” Founder’s names can attract new customers because they’re associated with your success. Still, they’re not effective at creating an image.
Brand Naming Strategy: Tips and Tricks For a Good Brand Name
Here are some tips and tricks to help you choose a brand name that will work for your company.
Brand Name Should Be Relevant To The Product
Think about your brand name on your product’s website, social media, and packaging. It should be easy to remember and say out loud, especially if you plan to market your brand through social media. For example, a name like “Organic Valley” would be an appropriate choice if you sell organic food products. The goal is to have a name that people will remember and associate with your company.
Keep It Simple and Straightforward
Your brand name should be easy to understand, spell, and pronounce. People tend to process information more quickly in a short format. For example, the brand name Coca-Cola is much easier to remember and pronounce than “Dr. John Pemberton’s French Wine Cola.” Customers will also be less likely to make spelling mistakes with a shorter brand name.
Make the Name Unique and Ownable
Ensure your brand name isn’t overly generic or overly descriptive. Generic brand names are hard to own and protect. If you can’t think of a unique name, consider modifying an existing word or phrase. For example, if you’re selling dog treats, you could use the prefix “doggy” in your brand names, like “doggy bones” or “doggy treats.”
Avoid Names That Can Be Confusing or Negative
Your brand’s name should not sound like another brand in the market. Additionally, your brand name should not suggest anything negative about other cultures or languages. For example, if you’re selling a product that helps people with arthritis, avoid terms like “arthritis” or “rheumatism.” These names are confusing because they sound like the conditions themselves.
Avoid Names That Are Already Used by Someone Else
Before registering any domain name, check to see if it’s already registered with an IP address. If someone else has already claimed your brand name and owns the corresponding website, you might have some legal issues ahead of you.
Think of a Competitive Edge
Your brand name needs to differentiate you from your competition and give you a competitive advantage in the market. For example, if you’re selling a new type of yoga mat, consider using the word “Pro” in your name. This could help you stand out from other brands because it gives customers a reason to buy yours instead.
Final Thought: What’s Your Value Proposition?
A good name for a company or product makes a clear and specific promise about what will be experienced. The value proposition is not yet fully understood when you struggle to find a name.
Ultimately, you want to make sure that your name is memorable and gives customers a clear idea of what they’re getting when they buy from you.
- Consider using these steps when searching for a company or product name:
- Research similar businesses to see what terms they use and why
- Brainstorm different ideas (e.g., “Pro”)
- Write down all your thoughts on paper or in a Word document
- Look at each one individually
Suppose you can find a name that differentiates your company, sells the value proposition, and makes it easy for customers to remember your brand. In that case, you’re on your way to building a successful business.
