There are all sorts of techniques for discovering the ideal business name or domain name for your company. Owners and entrepreneurs need to remember that naming methods vary from industry to industry because of the inherent differences between market segments.
For example, financial business names tend to have a more conservative connotation compared to names in the entertainment or art markets. People searching for a CPA or tax consultant are drawn to names that emphasize experience and solidity.
On the other hand, to continue our example, consumers shopping for trendy artworks or movie DVDs respond better to catchy, clever domain names. It helps to consider your industry and its typical customers before choosing a domain name or business name.
Here’s a brief rundown about how to find an ideal name for your particular industry, whatever line of business you’re in:
Financial
A good financial domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions the emphasize words and word fragments that conjure up class, sophistication and a high level of expertise.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Marketwatch, Bankrate, and MoneyCentral. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they include keywords like “money” “market” and “bank.”
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like using entire words and roots that imply wealth, like “sound-,” “secure” and “asset.”
Fashion
A powerful fashion business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like emphasizing quality, trendiness and words that imply style.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Warehouse, Whistles and Topshop. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they describe what they are, namely the “top shop” for clothing, a virtual “warehouse” for fashion, etc.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective cool business names in this market segment, like choosing a common trend’s name or the name of a unique style as part of the domain name.
Travel
An effective travel domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions that focus on low prices, adventure or unique experiences.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Orbitz, Priceline, and Travelocity. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they specifically mention “travel,” prices or allude to a clever concept like “orbiting.”
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including the word “cheap” or “air” in the domain name.
Computer
A potent computer business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions that call for including a computer-related word in the domain name.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: PCWorld, ComputerWorld, IBM. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they directly allude to computers or to the company’s short name.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective trendy names in this market segment, like adding “-puter” or “cyber-“ as a suffix or prefix.
Technology
Strong technology business names can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like including “tech” or “digital” as a prefix or suffix.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: TechCrunch, DigitalTrends, and Gizmodo. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are clever and easy to remember.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like combining trendy words with either “cyber” or “tech.” TechCrunch is a good example.
Sports
Catchy sports business names can help organizations, teams, or sporting related companies set set themselves apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like adding “-sport” or “active-” as a prefix or suffix.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: TeamExpress, OnlineSports and Sun&SkiSports. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they make clear what they are or what they sell.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including action words and the name of the actual sport your company deals with, like “Sun&SkiSports” for example.
Social
Compelling social domain names can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions that emphasize modern jargon, slang and trendy sayings.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Snapchat, Meetup and Friendster. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are short and describe the activities they enable, like chatting and meeting.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including root words or fragments like “soc-,” “meet” and “connect.”
Shopping
An ideal shopping business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions focusing on low prices or wide selection.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: NastyGal, GameStop and 1800Flowers. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because include either their product or a trendy moniker in their domain name.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like tagging the site name with the word “buy” or “discount” or “lowest.”
Service
A very good service domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful services business names in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions which emphasize reliability and customer satisfaction.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Topservice, Newservice, Personalservice. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are clear and direct in their approach.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like adding the suffix “-serv” or including the word “satisfy” in the name.
Security
Top-notch security business names can help any organization set themselves apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions that focus on safety and strength.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: TopGuardInc, GuardNow, and AdmiralSecurity. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they include the word “top” or “now.”
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including “safe” or “reliable” or parts of those words in the domain name.
Real Estate
A good real estate domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like including word fragments or roots that focus on solidity, value and long-term growth.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Realtor.com, Trulia, and Zillow. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are either trendy, like Zillow, or use word roots that are reassuring (“tru” and “realtor”).
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective real estate business names in this market segment, like using local variants so that consumers know they’re dealing with a hometown company, or adding words such as agent or estate.
Production
A powerful production business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful productions domain names in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions that focus on artistic, high-quality techniques and end-products.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: FocusFeatures, NetFlix and Miramax. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they employ catchy, clever variant spellings and memorable repetition of consonants (Miramax and FocusFeatures).
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including the word “film” or “music” within the domain name.
Product
An effective product domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a catchy domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions that are centered on the name of the product, especially if it is new.
Here are some examples of excellent domain product business names in this category: SpringBox, WakeFly and WebAdvanced. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they’re easy to remember and include pronounceable, whole words in their names.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like keeping the name as short as possible so consumers can remember it, and adding a trendy suffix like “-sy” to the site name.
Photography
Potent photography business names can help any organization set themselves apart in a crowded business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like focusing on industry jargon and camera words.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: IPhotographU, PhotoSense, and FotoPhoto. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are clever and easy to say.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like employing “graph” or “photo” or “snap” as a prefix or suffix of the domain name.
Organization
A strong organization domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like emphasizing structure and regimentation.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: PlanAhead, Organ-Ize, and OurPlans. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are descriptive and trendy.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like adding the suffix “-ize” to remind customers of the concept of organization.
Music
Useful music business names can help any musical enterprise set themselves apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like focusing on variety and creative concepts.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: SoundCloud, TuneIn, and AllMusic. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they use clever wording and modern-sounding word fragments.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including the word “tune” or “note” within the domain name.
Multimedia
A compelling multimedia domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like naming one of the media forms or tools used in the process.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: See&Hear, MyMovies, and SoundAround. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are easy to say and spell.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like using “multi” as a prefix or suffix of the domain name.
Event
Ideal event business names can help any organization set themselves apart in a fast paced sporadic business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like tagging the date and title of the event.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: YourWedding, PlanitNow, and EliteEvents. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are simple to say and are upbeat.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like specifically naming the event or using a prefix like “go” or “do.”
Entertainment
A very good entertainment domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a crowded business ecosystem. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like focusing on relaxation, fun and adventure.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Pogo, Spotify, and IMDB. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are simple, direct and positive.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like using the word “out” or “fun” somewhere within the domain name.
Energy
A top-notch energy business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like emphasizing savings, efficiency and scientific expertise.
Here are some examples of excellent engineering business names in this category: Power-Elite, SolarNow, and Dynamix. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are modern and hard to forget.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like tagging the site name with “-gy” or a prefix like “Ener-.”
Employment
A very compelling employment domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like describing the types of jobs the company deals with or the ease with which their clients are employed.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: GlassDoor, Monster, and FindTheJob. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they imply reliability and consumer satisfaction.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like using the word “job” as a prefix or suffix in the domain name.
Education
A very useful education business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like describing the specialty or particular area of study involved.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: LearnOnline, EducationOne, LifeLearn. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are upbeat and describe what the company does.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like using suffixes or prefixes that convey the idea of teaching. “Edu” and “-learn” are typical examples.
Design
A smart design domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like including the name of the principal or founder in the domain name.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: CreationOne, OrigiNation and iDesign-it. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are easy to spell and have an overall positive connotation.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like using word fragments that imply “creation.”
Dating
A strong dating business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like highlighting how easy it is to find a match.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Eharmony, Match, OKCupid. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are clever and easy to say.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like using the word “match” “hookup” or “meet” within the domain name.
Consulting
An catchy consulting domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a high powered business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like focusing on high levels of expertise and depth of knowledge.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: CPA&Law, EliteKnowledge, and ResolutionsNow. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are descriptive and trendy.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including suffixes and prefixes that imply expertise. “Pro-” and “-doc” are good examples.
Engineering
A useful engineering business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like highlighting the company’s experience and range of capabilities.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: DesignUp, Electric-shop, and Engineer-ace. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they use clever wording and modern-sounding word fragments.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like adding the “-eer” suffix to make a clever, memorable impression.
Construction
A powerful construction domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with an imposing construction company name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like including the firm’s name within the domain name.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: TrueBuilders, Brick, and Build-it. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are easy to say and spell.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including suffixes or prefixes that imply “building” or root fragments like “constr-.”
Business
A potent business domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like specifically alluding to the particular field of work.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Ebiz, Innovate, and Inc. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are simple to say and are upbeat.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including “biz” as a prefix or suffix.
Beauty
An ideal beauty domain name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like focusing on elegance, purity and timelessness.
Here are some examples of excellent beauty company names in this category: BeautyShopOnline, Perfume, and Drugstore. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are simple, direct and positive.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like adding trendy prefixes or suffixes such as “-luxe” and “model-.”
Automobile
A very effective automobile business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like centering the name on the concept of power or engine efficiency.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Ford, Tesla and GM. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are modern and hard to forget.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like adding clever suffixes such as “-go” or “-vroom” to make the name more memorable.
Art
Great art company names can help any organization set itself apart in a hippy business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like highlighting the uniqueness and beauty of the company’s products.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Artsy, Etsy, and DigitalArtsOnline. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they imply creativity and consumer satisfaction.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like adding the suffix “-sy” or including the word “art” somewhere in the name.
Apparel
A useful apparel business name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like mentioning trendy, upbeat-sounding words that are related to fashion.
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: Deb, GoJane, and NecessaryClothing. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are upbeat and describe what the company does.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including “wear” or a trendy prefix or suffix with the domain name.
Luxury
A highly effective luxury company name can help any organization set itself apart in a competitive business environment. To come up with a useful domain name in this market segment, entrepreneurs use specific naming conventions like focusing on superior quality and the “best of the best.”
Here are some examples of excellent domain names in this category: ShopBop, Sephora and AhaLife. These names are both powerful and memorable because not only do they follow the industry’s standard naming conventions, but because they are easy to spell and have an overall positive connotation.
In fact, in addition to standard industry naming conventions, there are a few tricks that company owners use for creating effective names in this market segment, like including “luxe” as a prefix or suffix.
Advice for Business Owners
Winning business and creative domain names don’t appear out of thin air. There is a good deal of creative work involved, along with the use of industry-specific naming conventions and assorted tricks of the trade in whatever the market segment happens to be.
Why let a domain name or business name be anything less than ideal? By spending a little time thinking about what creative names are a perfect fit for your company or organization, following some standard industry practices, and carefully choosing the ideal name, you’ll be starting your marketing efforts off on the right foot. You’ll also be making a solid contribution to a long-lasting brand identity that will serve you and your company for years to come.
Of course if you really don’t want to spend the time then check out our inventory of brandable domains or some of our best competitors like Brandbucket, Brandroot, or Novanym.