Just as your logo and branding create a strong first impression, your business name plays a vital role in being unforgettable. For smaller businesses and startups still building their reputation, choosing the right name can help keep you on top of mind with your audience.

There are many myths around business naming - like it must be short, directly related to your brand, or sound trendy. While these traits can help, they aren’t strict rules. The best names often come from authenticity, emotion, and experience.

During a conversation with a client about my newsletter, I mentioned, “Your goal with every marketing message is to stay memorable.” He responded, “I like that… stay memorable.” And just like that, Stay Memorable became the name of my newsletter. These 3 things should be considered whenever you find yourself trying to come up with a suitable business name.

1. Check for Domain Availability

In today’s digital world, having an online presence is crucial. Before finalizing your business name, check if the matching domain is available. A strong domain helps build credibility and makes it easier for customers to find you. You can use tools like Namecheap or GoDaddy to search for available domains and secure your online identity.

2. Make Sure It’s Not Already Trademarked

Choosing a name that’s legally protected by someone else can lead to costly rebranding down the line. Before you get too attached, conduct a quick trademark search to ensure your name is available. The USPTO Trademark Database (for U.S. businesses) is a great place to start. For other countries, check your national trademark office’s website.

3. Test for Social Media Availability

Your business name should also be available across key social media platforms. Having a consistent handle across Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn makes it easier for customers to find and recognize you. Use tools like Namecheckr to quickly see if your desired name is available across multiple platforms.

Trust the Process

There are no hard-and-fast rules for naming your business, and no one should criticize you for being original. The most memorable names often stem from experience, personality, and emotion. Instead of stressing over the perfect name, focus on developing your product or service. Along the journey, the right name often reveals itself naturally - when it does, trust your instinct and embrace it.

Some of the best business names come from real conversations - just like how Stay Memorable was born. The goal is to stay relatable. Let people connect with the story behind your name, and watch how your brand resonates and grows.