One of the first things you need to do when setting up your private practice is to give it a name.
Sounds easy, doesn’t it – but it can be very difficult.
For example, should you trade under your own name, or should you choose something else?
Trading under your own name is tempting, especially if you have a good reputation and will be running a solo practice.
However, choosing a different business name can make it stand out, and will give the impression of a larger, more established practice – which could be useful when seeking clients.
Some top tips
Your business name will be with you forever, so it has to be something you’ll feel comfortable with, now and in the future. Here are our top tips for naming your practice:
- keep it short – ideally no more than three words
- make it easy to remember
- think about whether you want it to include your location
- check online to see if another practice is already using that name – copying them is not a good idea!
- think about what your website domain name will be and check to see if it is available on sites such as 123-reg.co.uk and Domain Check (find out more about setting up a website on the Private Practice Hub)
Make sure that your name reflects what you do. Yes, companies such as ‘Orange’ and ‘Apple’ contradict our advice, but they can afford to spend millions on building a brand. Your business name is the first thing people will see, so telling them what you do at the same time can only be a good thing!
It will also help you to be found when someone is searching for a therapist online – so, for example, if you are a hypnotherapist you may wish to include ‘hypnotherapy’ in your practice name.
And remember – first impressions count. Think about what you want potential clients to think and feel when they see or hear the name of your private practice.Do you want them to feel reassured, interested, or simply bored?
Rules for limited companies and limited liability partnerships (LLPs)
There are several rules for limited companies or LLPs. You can find out more about them on the Business Link website.
Despite all the above, choosing your name can be a rewarding and exciting task. Good luck!
How did you choose your practice name? Let us know below, we’d love to read your comments.
