How to Choose a Name for your Freelance Business

Going freelance is a brave move for you to make. At some point, most experience a ‘mixed bag’ during their own experience. For example, the work can be unsteady and pay you very little to begin with. On the other hand, you can take control of your own schedule!

Nevertheless, as you build up your client base, your reputation will take shape alongside. Eventually, what began as taking on bits and pieces of work will develop into a fully fledged business.

Of course, you can’t build a reputation without a go-to company name. After all, people can’t possibly here of you if you don’t have a name! In the end, whatever you choose has to represent you perfectly. Here’s some tips on how to choose a name for your freelance business.

Take your time

Whether you’ve been freelancing for a while or have newly entered the game as a recent graduate, setting up a business can be terrifying. Still, it’s better to at least look like you know what you’re doing, and a strong business name goes a long way in pulling that off.

Choosing a business name is a creative process, even if you’re out there to be a freelance plumber. Set aside some time to sit down, spitball and brainstorm, and try to come up with a selection of possible names. After all, it’s unlikely you’ll come up with an all encompassing company name on the first try. Make a list and pick a favourite.

Be sensible

A good company name really gives you a strong anchor point as a trustyworthy, honest and morally responsible business. You’re not a faceless figure operating in the shadows, you’re a legitimate business, and this is what your name must communicate before anything else.

Moreover, if you’re self-employed you need to let HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) know immediately and register. Alot of the admin work requires a company name, and it simply makes you look more proper in any corporate proceedings. Identity is key not just from a branding perspective, but for a sense of legal and moral transparency too.

Consider your goals

The best kind of business names provide complete clarity. While it might be tempting to go with something artsy and quirky, it’s a risk, especially if you’re just starting out. Business names play a huge role in attracting customers, clients and work, so it’s important that yours communicates who you are at a quick and easy glance.

If you’re providing a particularly niche service, perhaps consider incorporating it into your business name. For example, if you’re a builder, copywriter or editor, it can help to include these names. This tactic can give you a stronger place in the market and make you easily searched online by potential customers through keywords.

Use your name

It’s by no means essential, but using your own name as a business name can definitely benefit certain freelancers. It’s all about the message you want to convey, and how to land a strong first impression. For example, George Moss Copywriting is far more concise and to the point than Wonderful Word Wizards Ltd.

Most customers just want an easy ride from a trader they trust, and using your name is the perfect way to introduce yourself properly. You don’t need to come across as the most elaborate and snazzy business in the world. Therefore, using your name can also take the pressure off appearing grandiose, and can simply serve as a cheerful and polite introduction instead.

Of course, if you have a name that’s hard to spell, you may want to consider another route. People need to find you quickly, so if your name is Guinevere Hickinbotham, perhaps consider a business name that is simply spelt for a google search!

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