5 Quick Ways to Come Up with a Catchy Business Name

It goes without saying that getting the right name is extremely important to pin down when starting a business. It can be the deciding factor between success and obscurity. Branding conventions, regardless of your industry, will always point to the value of having a business name that is catchy. 

You can do so many name studies on what sounds premium, innovative, or what-have-you. But at the end of the day, it’s about having a name that sticks. From there, you can start to build your base by connecting with what your consumers want. As recent data shows, 65% of consumers love fewer than three brands. 

So, how do you come up something that resonates with people? Here are some quicwith k ways to make a catchy business name. 

1. Try a Generator Tool

Instead of wasting time blindly trying to create a name, you can use the tools at your disposal. A business name generator can create a list of options within seconds. The good thing about this tool, aside from being completely free to use, is that it automatically excludes results that are already taken by existing businesses. It also frontloads results that are short and simple, which is good for brand recall. 

You’ll need to prompt the tool with your own starting keywords, but it’s still a lot easier than forming a whole name from scratch. It also gives you different alternatives that might work out better than your initial choice. 

2. Look Up Concepts Related to Your Business

If you’re not sure what words to start with in the first place, consider what types of symbols and concepts feel relevant to your business model. Think about your category, products, industry, and the like. What are certain things that come to mind when you think of what your business offers?
Basing things conceptually can be a great way to get those creative juices flowing. Additionally, it can lead to a more unique result that still feels directly tied to your services. You want your audience to associate certain concepts to your brand, which helps boost your revenue online. 

3. Start with Acronyms and Abbreviations

You’re not required to use long words, and you may find that creating a distinctive name is not limited to the act of adding. Sometimes, magic happens when you omit or take some things out for creative license. Look at huge names like IBM, Adidas, H&M, and MTV. These are all from different industries but have become iconic brands that stay relevant with modern consumers when you bring up their respective niches. 

An acronym can just help you make a short name that rolls off the tongue and generates interest. You can also include abbreviations to add some style to your name. You’d be surprised how quickly you can find a name you’re happy with when you open the floor to abbreviated names. And considering how mnemonic devices are meant to make people remember certain concepts better, this will also help you establish brand recall. 

4. Consider Other Languages

Who says you can only wade in the pool of the English language? As long as it feels relevant to your business and its mission, you can totally make a catchy name by finding words from other languages. It offers that added intrigue for new customers while simplifying the naming process for you. 

Think about it – all you need to do is think of a word that feels descriptive and befitting of your business. Then, you find its equivalent in another language. Of course, using this option will require you to be mindful of your execution so that it makes sense why you’re using said word. You’ll also want to avoid doing so in a way that feels appropriative. 

Many businesses thrive with names that aren’t in English. Look at El Pollo Loco, which has become a formidable chicken chain. Huge investors like Sardar Biglari have started to back the Mexican-themed restaurant after acquiring other huge stakes like Jack in the Box. 

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Get Cheeky

Although you want to avoid making things overcomplicated, you might actually have an easier time creating a catchy name if you let loose a bit. While this still depends on the tone and branding of your company, you can get a really engaging name if you think outside of the box. As long as it’s still clear what you’re offering to your target audience, you can have a little fun with how you name your business. 

A good example of this is the “pun name”, which can make even the most direct and simple phrases just a little more memorable. Just make sure that you still come off as a credible business and avoid making puns on existing businesses. This will only draw more attention to their brand and potentially open you up to trademark disputes and confusion. 

Harper Harrison

Harper Harrison is a reporter for The Hear UP. Harper got an internship at the NPR and worked as a reporter and producer. harper has also worked as a reporter for the Medium. Harper covers health and science for The Hear UP.