How should I choose a name for my business?

The name you choose for your business now will continue to influence the initial impression customers have of you in the future. It will determine how easily your customers can find your business and information about you in phone books and other directories. It will also provide a snapshot of your business which your customers will use to develop their very first impression of you. Research the business names of your competitors to determine which names catch your attention and which ones are easy to miss When selecting a business name, you should think about the following issues: 1. Make the name easy to understand, spell, pronounce, remember, and find in the telephone directory listing. 2. Project your business image in the name. Include words such as service, speed, quality, skill, low cost, experience effectiveness, etc., in the name depending on what you emphasize in your business. The type of product or service you provide, such as cleaning, catering, or consulting, should also be included in the name to help the customer remember who you are. 3. Remember that periods, spaces, and first words such as "an" or "the" will change alphabetical listing of your business in directories. Acronyms or abbreviations can confuse the customer looking for your name in a listing. 4. Terms such as "corporation" or "incorporation" should not be used unless your business is incorporated. 5. Do not select a name similar or identical to that of another business. It will confuse the customer and anger the other business. When you have an idea for your business name, you will need to make sure no other business is using it.