How to choose a business name
When choosing your business name, it is important to consider the relevancy of your brand and ease of recall. Certain technical stuff such as the ease of finding a domain name for your website and trademark is also important in the decision-making process.
A Few Naming Tips:
- Don’t use words like “Ltd” or “Limited” unless you’ve actually registered a company.
- Avoid names that sound too similar to existing brands.
- Keep it short, clear, and easy to spell.
- Try to get the “.co.uk” or “.com” domain for website if possible as they look more professional even if you are not planning to create a website anytime soon.
“While a .com domain isn’t always necessary, it makes life so much easier in the long run,” says Rebecca Battman
Checking name availability
Once you’ve thought of a business name you like — whether it’s your own name or something creative — the next step is to make sure no one else is already using it. This avoids confusion, legal trouble, or branding headaches later on.
As a sole trader, you don’t have to register a business name formally (unless you’re setting up a limited company), but it’s still important to check that your name is:
- Not taken by another business
- Available as a website domain
- Free on social media platforms
A Few Naming Tips!
Choosing the right name for your business is more than just picking something you like — it’s your first impression, your brand identity, and even a part of your marketing. Here’s how to do it right:
Don’t Use “Ltd” or “Limited” Unless You’ve Registered a Company
- Words like “Ltd” or “Limited” are legally reserved for registered companies.
- Using them as a sole trader can confuse customers into thinking you’re a bigger company, and it can get you into trouble legally.
- Keep your name honest, it builds trust from the start.
Avoid Names That Are Too Similar to Existing Brands
- Before you settle on a name, check for trademarks and Google the name to see if anyone else is using it.
- Choosing a unique name prevents legal issues and makes it easier for people to find you online.
- Bonus: a unique name makes your social media handles and domain names more likely to be available.
Keep It Short, Clear, and Easy to Spell
- Long or complicated names are hard to remember and easy to mistype online.
- Simple, clear names stick in people’s minds and make your business more shareable.
- Try to aim for 1–3 words that capture what your business does.
Secure Your Domain Early
- Even if you’re just starting out, try to get a
.co.ukor.comdomain that matches your business name. - Having your own domain makes your business look more professional and trustworthy.
- Tools like Namecheap