A business name may not seem like a big deal, but it’s crucial. The right business name can give clients an excellent first impression, and it also plays an essential role in marketing your brand. According to CrowdSpring, 77% of customers make purchasing decisions based on a brand’s name.
Unfortunately, naming your legal side business isn’t that easy. It should be clear, powerful, and incorporate your company’s values and characteristics. For this reason, many people get stuck on deciding what to call their business. Here are some helpful steps to name your business if you are among these people.
Don’t Choose a Name Too Similar to Your Competitor
Choosing a unique name can be challenging. So, many business owners often seek inspiration from their competitors. While that can give you a head start, please don’t choose a name that can make customers confuse your side business with another similar business within your location. For example, if there is an Anthony McClain Law Firm in your area, you shouldn’t name your legal business “Anthony McClain Attorneys.”
Aside from creating confusion, such a name can make the other business accuse you of trademark infringement, and who wants to fight a lawsuit when they can use that time to make money? So, be smart about it. Give your business its own identity and brand.
Avoid Names That Are Hard to Spell
You want to make things as easy as possible for your customers. So, choose a name that they can easily spell and remember. At the same time, pick a name that supports your business’s growth.
A narrow name may seem practical at first, but it can be limiting as your business grows. Imagine if Amazon was called “Online Electronics.” This would have been a problem since the business now sells various other things apart from electronics. So, avoid names that limit you to a specific city or product, even if you only offer legal services for now.
Related article: How to DIY your Website for your Side Business
Check Whether the Domain Name is Available
Having a website is very important for any business. So, it’s crucial that you check if the domain URL and business name of your legal firm are available. It’s always advisable to have a .com domain name for your company instead of the alternatives like .net, .org, .biz, etc., extensions. .com names are associated with an established business.
In most cases, your domain name won’t be available. However, most domain owners are ready to sell it to you for the right price. Don’t focus so much on the price. Instead, think of it as an investment. Sites like GoDaddy.com or NetworkSolutions.com can help you check whether the domain name is available and if it is, track down the owner to see if they can sell it to you.
Add Last Names and Practice Area
Most legal business names include the partners’ last names. This is even a requirement in some states. If you don’t have partners, your last name will do. But if you have them, plan how to include their last names. Create several combinations and choose the ones that sound best.
It’s also wise to add your practice area when choosing to name your business. This will help potential clients know the services you offer or if you are the right company for them right away. However, don’t be overly specific, as you may expand your scope as your business grows.
Related article: How to Legalize Your Side Hustle
Consider Trademarking Your Name
If your brand and business name are unique, you may want to consider trademarking your firm’s name. That means that you fill and submit the application, at a fee, of course. But this will bar anyone else from copying your name. You can apply online on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office platform.
Final Thoughts
Naming your business can be overwhelming. If you’re having a hard time doing that, you can always seek professional help. However, you also need to be prepared to tell them about your company’s unique value and assets.
