10 Do’s & Don’ts for Winning Business Name Ideas

Let’s be real, coming up with a business name is exciting... until it’s not. You’ve got a great idea, maybe even your first product ready to go. But that name? It’s just not landing.

If you’re stuck, you’re not alone. Picking a name that feels right, sounds great and stands out is no small task. That’s why we’re here to help with some real talk on business name ideas, what works, what doesn’t, and how to make a name that actually sticks.

Still setting up your hustle? Don’t miss our complete guide to starting a business. It’s got everything you need to take the leap.

Let’s talk Spanx: A name with impact

Sara Blakely (aka the powerhouse behind Spanx) spent over a year trying out names that just didn’t click. Then she took a risk, swapped the “ks” in “spanks” for an “x” and boom. Spanx was born. Short. Bold. Unforgettable.

Moral of the story? The best business name ideas don’t always come quickly. But when they do, you’ll feel it.

DO: Start with your story

Your business name should say something about you. Your journey. Your hustle. Your why.

Before jumping into ideas, take a step back and ask:

Why did I start this business?
What makes it different?
What do I want people to feel when they hear the name?

When you’re thinking about how to choose a business name ideas, your story is the best place to begin.

DO: Keep it short and simple

Let’s not overcomplicate it. If people can’t say it, spell it, or remember it, you’ve lost them.

Great business name ideas are easy to say, easy to share, and easy to search. Think of names like Uber, Bolt or Canva. Small words, big impact.

DO: Say it out loud

This might sound silly, but trust us, what looks good on paper might sound totally awkward when you say it.

Say the name out loud a few times. Imagine answering the phone with it or pitching it to someone. If it flows, you’re good. If it doesn’t? Back to the drawing board.

This is a simple but powerful test for how to choose a business name ideas that actually work in real life.

DO: Check if it’s taken

You don’t want to fall in love with a name only to find out someone else already has it.

Before you go full steam ahead, check:

Business name availability (try Govchain)
Domain name options
Social media handles
Trademarks (if you’re going big)

Your business name idea should be original and available, otherwise, it’s back to brainstorming.

DO: Give it space to grow

Today you’re making candles. Tomorrow? Maybe bath bombs or full-blown gift boxes. Your name should leave room for where your business might go.

Avoid names that are too specific, like “Joburg Juice Co.” if you’re planning to expand. The best business name ideas are flexible and future-proof.

DON’T: Play it too safe

“Affordable Print Services SA” might be accurate… but let’s be honest—it doesn’t exactly stand out.

Your name is your first shot at getting someone’s attention. Don’t be afraid to go bold, creative or unexpected. That’s what makes a name stick.

DON’T: Overthink it

It’s easy to get stuck in analysis mode. But if a name feels right, go with it. If you’re trying too hard to force a made-up word that no one can say, maybe take a step back.

There’s a sweet spot between clever and clear. Great business name ideas hit that balance.

DON’T: Ask too many people

Here’s the thing, too many opinions = confusion.

Get feedback, yes. But choose two or three people you trust. People who understand your brand and your audience. Then trust your gut.

When figuring out how to choose a business name ideas, less noise leads to better clarity.

DON’T: Settle

If the name doesn’t make you feel something, keep going. You’re going to be saying this name a lot, so it better be something you’re proud of.

The perfect name is out there. Don’t stop until it clicks.

Bonus: Not sure where to start?

Here are a few simple ways to spark fresh business name ideas:

Mash words together – Think Netflix = Internet + Flicks
Use feeling words – Think Cozy, Grit, Thrive
Try names in other languages – Something simple and meaningful
Use your own name creatively – Or a nickname with meaning
Look at metaphors – Nature, movement, transformation, all rich sources

Just don’t rush it. The best names often come when you’re not forcing it.

You’ve got this

Naming your business is a big deal. But once you’ve got it, the real fun begins—branding, building, and growing.

Need help with the rest of the setup? We’ve got you. Check out our How to Start a Business Guide to go from idea to open.

You’ve got the passion. Now give it a name that does it justice.

We believe in your hustle. And we know that the right business name idea can unlock big things. So keep exploring, keep refining, and trust yourself to land on something great.