Your
shop name is one of the most important factors in creating a
successful business. It will give you immediate recognition, style,
and searchability. When choosing a name, it is vital to consider
all the factors that go into choosing the perfect name for your
shop.
Things to consider when choosing a shop
name:
- Be original: Interesting names will stick with
those who visit your shop. Names that involve physical things will
evoke a visual image, which can help form a more powerful memory.
An interesting word or phrase that is meaningful for you can add a
bit of history and a point of interest.
- Show your style: Choose a name that reflects
your style. If your items are elegant, choose an elegant name. If
your items are quirky or clever, you want your name to speak to
that aesthetic. Let your own unique point of view as an artist
shine through in everything about your shop, especially your
name!
- Spelling counts: Pick something that is easy
to pronounce and spell. The former helps people remember your name,
the latter makes it easy to find you again!
- Take the shop name memory test: Sit down with
a piece of paper and the writing utensil of your choice and ask
yourself: "What shops do I know the name of on Etsy?" It doesn't
have to be your favorite shop or any reason other than the fact
that you remembered their name. This is key. After you
have your list of remembered names, take a look at them. Why are
they so memorable? After asking yourself these questions, learn
from what these sellers have done to create your own memorable
name.
- Google it: Search for your intended name on
Google. Will you be able to be the top result? Avoid generic names
that you won't be able to "own." While you're at it, check to see
if the name is available on Twitter, Facebook, and any other social
networks you plan to use.
- Know the law: Think about legalities. Some
words and names are trademarked, so do your homework first to avoid
a possible conflict later. Consider consulting an attorney if you
need specialized advice in this area.
- Capitalize multiple words: Once you have
decided on a name for your shop, take advantage of capital letters
to make the appearance of your shop name more coherent. If you have
two words in your shop name, create a visual separation by making
the first letters of each word capital letters instead of
lowercase. For example, "BoyfriendLetters" reads so much better
than "boyfriendletters." Plus, capitalization doesn't make a
difference when people type your shop name in their browser, so it
won't be harder for them to find you.
- The power of search: If you are selling a very
specific product or certain type of supply, it wouldn't hurt to
actually put the basic name of what you are selling in your shop
name; this may help you show up in search engines whenever someone
searches for this item. But be careful: if you're thinking about
branching out to other types of items, you may not want to follow
this tip. There are advantages to having a name that will allow you
to sell a range of items, since many sellers evolve over time.
- Keep it consistent: Use the same name
everywhere - as your Etsy shop name, in your banner, on your blog,
and on any social networking sites you use. This makes it super
easy for buyers to find your shop!
- Get some feedback: Ask others who are in your
target market what they think about your name. Your Etsy team can
be a great place to get advice and feedback as well. Ask what
they'd expect a shop with this name to be about.
- Make sure it's worth it: Does your new name
reflect a change in product? Is it much easier to remember? Does it
fit much better with the image of your shop? If you have a
significant fan base, try to change your shop name only if it's
absolutely necessary.
- Shout it from the rooftops: Make sure you let
your Twitter followers, Facebook fans, and blog readers know about
your new name. Consider changing the name of your account, if
possible.