One of the most effective ways to get started with naming your business is getting back to basics. Take the time to consider the foundation of your company. What do you stand for and what are your business goals?

The first thing anyone will learn about your business is what you’re called, follow the next points to help make that process as easy as possible.

Most business names fall into one of six standard categories;

Mainstream words, Made-up words, Owner's name, Obvious (outlining what your business is or what it does), Trendy words, and Initials or Abbreviations.

You can explore all these naming approaches to find a title that suits your business best.

If you’ve hit a business-naming wall? Name generators can help your creative thinking. Based on keywords and other aspects you provide, these tools could produce something that work or spark something that will. Even if the one suggested isn't ideal, it can get you thinking creatively plus you don’t have to spend out on it. Check these out name generator sites, BNG, Namelix + Logaster.

Once you have a few of your top names in mind test them out on your prospective target audience. Do they deliver the right feel and resonate in the right way with them? When they hear the name what comes to mind? What does this business name make you think about? Will they easily remember the name? Does the business name inspire confidence? Does the name trigger a buying decision? Test if they can easily and properly pronounce and spell your business name.

Registering a domain name is an important but often overlooked part of naming a business. Even if you don't anticipate creating a website right now, it doesn't hurt to secure a good, logical name you hit the web. It should be short, easy to spell, and SEO (search engine optimisation)-friendly. Once you hit on the one, you should immediately register it.

As a small business owner, you will have to live with the name for a long time. It will represent your business for as long as it exists. Make sure you personally are happy with, excited about, believe in, and feel proud of your chosen business name.