How to make a business name memorable, with Alexandra Watkins

The art of naming may seem secondary to finances and operations, but it's incredibly important because your name can make or break your brand.

So how do you choose the right name? 

What are the methods or surefire hacks to create one that clicks?

How do you craft a name that leaves a lasting impression and attracts customers?

What's the secret to unlocking naming success? And how do you ensure that this process becomes the foundation for your long-term success?

In this episode, my guest Alexandra Watkins and I take a deep dive into the world of naming. She shares her tips on creating the perfect name, including how to brainstorm and the common mistakes to avoid when choosing the right name.

Alexandra is a leading and outspoken authority on brand names with buzz.  Her breakthrough creativity book, “Hello, My Name is Awesome: How to Create Brand Names That Stick,” was named a Top 10 Marketing Book by Inc. Magazine. 

We discuss:

03:42  When naming a brand or business, don't prioritize matching URLs over relevant keywords to avoid confusion and unconventional spellings.

08:20 Choose names that are easy to spell, pronounce, and remember.

09:17  The S.M.I.L.E process for choosing winning names

11:12 Leverage previous knowledge, imagery, themes, and emotions to craft names.

13:52 Brainstorm for names using various techniques to jumpstart your creativity.

16:52 Multiple rounds of feedback and trademark screening are part of every name selection process.

20:55 Trademark your brand names to prevent conflicts, regardless of how long you've used the name.

21:54  Ownership of trademarks, as seen with Xerox and Kimberly Clark, offers consumer brand protection.

24:07 The S.C.R.A.T.C.H Process for Rejecting Names

29:52 Choose names that allow for future growth and changes in your business.

31:53 Be aware of the "curse of knowledge" when naming anything and prioritize clear, pronounceable names.

36:56 Pronunciation and spelling are pivotal in naming to avoid ambiguity.

38:03 Actionable Steps to Selecting the Perfect Business Name

Resources:

Alexandra Watkins, Chief Executive Boss Lady, Eat My Words

Website:
https://eatmywords.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrawatkins/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/eatmywords

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/EatMyWordsNames/

Free Test in Naming Your Brand:
SMILE & SCRATCH Name Evaluation Test

Free Brand Names Mini Masterclass

How To Create Super Sticky Brand Names Online Course

Other resources in this episode:
Episode 62 - Protecting Intellectual Property in Service-Based Businesses
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/protecting-intellectual-property-in-service-based-businesses/

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Make a Business Name Memorable
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-make-a-business-name-memorable/