If you have decided to start your own indexing business, there's the fun stuff, and the not-so-fun stuff. Deciding on a business name to represent yourself is one of the fun things that often turns into a disaster. It doesn't cost anything to choose a name, yet it has the greatest impact on your company's future.
First, you want something that defines you as being different from everyone else. Next, you want something memorable. Then, you want something catchy. Finally, you want something that isn't too limiting in what services you offer.
That is a pretty tall order for any business name to live up to.
There are at least six ways of naming your new business.
1. By what your business offers. If you want to focus on indexing, this would mean calling your business Indexing Services or Indexing and Editing. One limitation to this type of name is that it really restricts what your business offers. If you select a name of this type, how can you let your clients know you also offer proofreading or technical editing?2. By your name. This might be good if you already have a well-known name and reputation in the publishing field. An example would be Sotheby's, Penney's, or Merrill Lynch. However, If you are just starting out, prospective clients won't know who you are or what you do.
3. By name and service. Some indexers choose this route by selecting something like LastName Indexing Services. This lets people know what your business is, and who runs it. However, you will still have the same restrictions of the first two selections - by name or service offered. Some people like naming their business after themselves, and it may be easier to work with in regard to obtaining local business licenses.
4. By a specific benefit your business offers. An example of this would be Speedy Indexing, or Legal Eagle Indexing and Editing. These are more memorable names that clients remember. Just keep in mind that you will need to live up to your benefit. If you decide to branch out into other areas, you might be limited if not chosen wisely.
5. By locale. Do you live the Adirondack's? How about Adirondack Indexing? Or Smoky Mountain Indexing. These are attractive choices, but will your potential New York City client think you only work in these regions?
6. A made up name. This is the most popular way that indexers seem to name their businesses. A to Z Indexing and Bookend Indexing might be two examples of this. These two names I just made up, and they are probably taken already! Some like silly names, and names like this are popular in certain parts of the country and world. Think about where you will be doing business. Purple Elephant Indexers might be good in some parts of the world, but is it appropriate where you want to do business?
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