William Shakespeare once asked this question, arguing that names don’t really matter. Well, in the naming business, we beg to differ. Whether it’s naming a baby, an idea, a blog, a side hustle, a passion project, or a business — a name that sticks, is easy to remember, and stands out from the crowd can significantly contribute to its long-term success. This belief has only strengthened with time. Our world is increasingly connected—geographical and cultural barriers are blurring, and reaching a global audience is easier than ever. At the same time, competition is also more intense than ever. It often feels like every new idea already exists in some shape or form. To break through the clutter, it is essential to stand out.

So, What Makes a Good Name?

Firstly, a good name should have the potential to be understood across geographies, languages, and cultures. You may be targeting a local audience today, but who’s to say your popularity and success won’t take you across borders tomorrow? Secondly, the name should also be crisp, short, easy to recall, and simple to pronounce. Finally, how does one break through the clutter? How does one stand out among countless alternatives with little to distinguish them? If your name looks, sounds, and reads like everything else, does it really stand a chance of being top-of-mind? To stand out, your name needs to be outstanding.

Pick a name that dares to be different from the conventional—one that commands attention, sparks curiosity, and creates a lasting impression. Be an Elon among Marks, a Lady Gaga among the Jennifers, and a Bono among the Michaels.

Might we suggest: don’t just think of it as a name, think of it as a brand. A name is what you call something; a brand is what you remember it by. Sandeep Ramchandani, CEO of Radix, is a recognized authority in the global domain and web hosting industry, bringing over 20 years of expertise in strategy, policy, and product management within the domain sector.