Welcome back to our business naming series! Last week we covered the foundation of choosing a business name. Now, let’s complete the process with these three essential final steps.
📝 Quick Recap
In Part 1, we covered: reviewing your business foundation, creating naming guidelines, and conducting brainstorming sessions. Now let’s narrow down your choices and make it official!
Step 4: Give It Time & Create Your Shortlist
Now that you have a long list from brainstorming, it’s time to review and analyze your results systematically.
How to Create Your Shortlist:
📋 Shortlist Creation Process
- Remove any non-contenders immediately
- Group similar names together
- Mark names that instantly resonate with you
- Conduct multiple review sessions over a few days
⏰ The Importance of TimeLet your ideas settle before finalizing your shortlist. This allows your initial biases to fade and helps you see which names have lasting power.
The “Sleep On It” Test
Once you have your shortlist:
- Walk away and do something else for a day or two
- Let your subconscious process the options
- Return with fresh eyes to review again
Often, after this break, one name will instantly feel right. If none resonate, it’s time to restart your brainstorming process.
Step 5: Check Availability Thoroughly
Before finalizing your choice, ensure your preferred name is actually available for use.
🔍 Essential Availability Checks
- Legal Search: Ministry of Legal Affairs business registry
- Domain Search: Check website domain availability
- Social Media: Search platforms for existing usernames
- Trademark Search: Ensure no trademark conflicts
Domain Name Solutions
If your ideal domain isn’t available, consider:
- Using abbreviations or hyphens
- Alternative top-level domains (.net, .co, .biz)
- Moving to your next name choice if a better domain is available
Step 6: Register Your Business Name
Once you’ve chosen an available name, make it official through proper registration.
🏢 Registration Requirements
- Sole Traders & All Companies: Register with Ministry of Legal Affairs
- Trademark Registration: Optional but recommended for brand protection
- Domain Registration: Secure your website address immediately
Your Naming Journey Complete
Choosing a business name is a significant investment of time and thought, but it’s well worth the effort. Once you complete this process, you’ve not only taken a major step toward launching your venture but also started building your brand identity and carving out your unique space in the business world.
🎉 Congratulations!
You now have a complete, step-by-step process for choosing the perfect business name that reflects your brand and stands the test of time.
“A wealthy person is simply someone who has learned how to make money when they’re not working.” – Robert Kiyosaki
Missed Part 1? Read the first three steps to choosing your business name to get the complete naming strategy.
