2021-03-04
Truly unique business or product names and eye-catching logos can be challenging to create. Protecting these distinguishing names and designs with trademark registrations can improve your ability to stop others from using the same or similar identifiers for their businesses. Formally protecting your brand can increase the value of your brand and business.
A classic example of a successful and truly distinct mark is the Nike swoosh symbol, one that is undeniably iconic worldwide. If you want the same level of uniqueness for your brand, here’s the lowdown on how to create an original trademark for your own use:
Tip #1: Choose Strong Trademarks
There’s no one way to create a trademark, so distinguishing yourself starts by choosing the right trademark that will suit your business. There are several categories your brand can fall into when it comes to creating a mark:
- Generic - "Pizza Place";
- Descriptive - "New York’s Finest Pizzeria";
- Suggestive - "A Slice of Chewy Goodness";
- Fanciful - Any original words created solely to define your products, such as "Little Ceasars";
- Personal Names - "Papa John’s Pizza";
- Arbitrary - These are words that do not necessarily describe your services but have a deep association with your brand, such as "Yellow Cab".
Choosing the right trademark class that suits your business’s nature requires considering several factors, but one of the biggest elements to consider is whether it is registerable.
Tip #2: Describe a Compelling Experience
The best trademarks can evoke powerful emotions from your audience. So, when coming up with a trademark, consider a name that will inspire people to either take action or embrace a specific feeling.
Verizon, for example, originally means to reach higher in Latin. When people see Verizon products, the meaning complements the brand’s mission to provide the fastest internet service to their customers.
Tip #3: Avoid Three-Letter Acronyms and Numbers
Many people think that the shorter the trademark, the easier it is to be memorable. Think of heavy-hitting brands like IBM, CTV, or AT&T. While it’s true these iconic businesses have made a significant mark in their respective industries, keep in mind that it took years and significant sales to make them popular.
When starting your own professional venture, acronyms and numbers as trademarks are generally considered to be weak marks. You’ll have to build your brand’s momentum before your mark catches on, so it may be better to avoid them in the first place and aim for a stronger start by playing around with words that best fit your brand’s personality.
The Bottom Line: Make a Name for Your Business with a Distinct Trademark
Iconic trademarks can boost your brand recognition and allow the market to instantly associate the product as your creation, making it a fundamental component that solidifies your identity in a convoluted marketplace.
How Can We Help You Protect Your Intellectual Property?
As registered trademark agents, we can provide assistance during every step of the trademark process. From helping to identify strong trademarks through to registration and policing your trademark, we can provide guidance along the way. For more information, reach out to us at 587- 400 -1911.
