How do names affect your brand positively or negatively?

As a storyteller, copywriter, content strategist and creator, I get asked lots of questions aand I simplify the answer without going in-depth because it will require that I teach the process, and that is where the real work is. For instance, someone asked me how to find a catchy generic brand name.

Here are my thoughts;

Stop looking for generic name ideas and focus on finding the right name for your brand, something that resonates with your essence — with your core. The best brands name represent what the brand stands for. They use metaphors and evocative words that paint the right picture of the brand.

Further, would you name your newborn baby the same name your neighbour name their child or children simply because you love their names? Would you even consider there are other beautiful names, thousands out there that you can choose from? Would you take time to sit down and have a talk with your wife on the kind of names you want your child or children to bear? Just as naming is significant to humans, names are vital when we need to name our brands. This is the sacred truth!

If you use something generic that can be used by any brand, you will be perceived as just another brand out there, and you do not want to be in that spotlight. Some schools of thought would consider this an impostor syndrome, and you do not want to be caught in that web of lies early on in your business or career either.

Here is the sad truth; all the catchy names are already taken, at least 80% of them are, and you will be disappointed to know that about one million brands are registered daily, and you are one of them, so, how do you intend to stand out? How do you want to beat the big brands out there that have money to pump into advertisement and marketing? There are many odds stacked against you, but with the things I am sharing, you will have a fighting chance to stand out and be seen and heard where it matters and essentially, when it matters.

Instead of being THE brand, everyone talks about, why not be The ONE brand that does things differently. That is the essence of branding.

There are too many brands out there that are making zero or little sales because they refuse to create an image of themselves for what they should be known for and by, and that is the only reason they cannot seem to break into the market. Their business model is well-written, and their plans and goals are well laid out on the table, but their name causes a little bit of confusion in the minds of their target customers and audience.

Generic names can’t take you far. It can take you to some places and open some doors, but they will soon wear people out because nothing about your brand screams originality and uniqueness, and very soon, people will get bored of interacting with your brand.

Do you agree with my answer? Is there ever an instance where generic names are better than targeted brand names that help position the business? I will like your opinion in the comment section.