Naming contests can be a great way to generate new ideas for your business name and get feedback from potential customers. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start.
Here are 12 tips to help you get the most out of your business naming contest:
1. Set Some Guidelines
Before you launch your contest, take some time to think about what you want in a name. What kind of feeling do you want it to evoke? What message do you want it to communicate? What kind of image do you want it to portray?
Having a clear idea of what you’re looking for will help ensure that the names submitted are on target. It will also make it easier for you to narrow down the finalists.
2. Keep it Simple
The best business names are usually short, sweet, and to the point. They’re easy to remember and easy to pronounce. And they don’t try to be too clever or cutesy.
If you’re looking for a name that’s both memorable and meaningful, keep it simple.
3. Make it Memorable
You want your business name to be something that people will remember. So make sure it’s catchy and unique. Avoid using common words or phrases that people will have a hard time differentiating from other businesses in your industry.
4. Avoid Using Inside Jokes
It may be tempting to choose a name that only you and your team members will get. But inside jokes can make your business name difficult for others to understand and remember.
5. Consider Your Target Market
When choosing a business name, it’s important to consider your target market. What kind of customers are you trying to attract? What kinds of names do they respond to?
If you’re not sure who your target market is, now is the time to figure it out. Doing some research now will help ensure that you choose a name that resonates with the people you’re trying to reach.
6. Avoid Trends
The name you choose for your business should have staying power. You don’t want to have to rename your business every few years because the name is no longer relevant or popular.
So avoid trendy words or phrases that will quickly become dated. And steer clear of names that are too specific to your industry or location.
7. Get Feedback from Potential Customers
Before you choose a business name, it’s important to get feedback from potential customers. After all, they’re the ones who will be seeing and hearing your business name the most.
One way to get feedback is to launch a naming contest and allow people to vote on their favorite names. Another option is to survey potential customers and ask them what they think of various names.
8. Avoid Names That Are Too Similar to Other Businesses
You want your business name to be unique. But you also don’t want it to be so similar to another business that people get confused.
So avoid names that are too similar to other businesses in your industry. And be careful about using made-up words or misspellings that could make your name hard to find online.
9. Make Sure the Domain Name Is Available
In today’s digital world, it’s important to have a strong online presence. So before you choose a business name, make sure the corresponding domain name is available.
10. Test It out First
Before you commit to a business name, test it out first. See how it looks on your website and business cards. Say it out loud and see if people can pronounce it easily. And try Googling it to see what comes up.
11. Get Help from a Naming Agency
If you’re struggling to come up with a name for your business, consider working with a naming agency. These professionals can help you generate ideas and narrow down your options.
12. Brainstorm with Your Team
Coming up with a great business name is often a team effort. So brainstorm with your co-founders, employees, and advisors. See what they come up with and get their feedback on your favorite names.
Conclusion:
Choosing a business name is one of the most important steps in starting a business. But it can also be one of the hardest.
