Small business owners should take certain steps before launching their website to be successful. Here are a few tips that business owners should consider:
1. The most important and valuable tip is to choose a name that is creative and unique.
2. The name you choose should have a corresponding domain name. If you can, register several variations of the domain name (.com, .net, .biz). You want to be able to control the name in the event others attempt to use it at a later date.
3. File a trademark application with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office to protect your name as soon as possible. Until you receive a registration for the trademark, you should use the symbol TM (for a trademark) or SM (for a servicemark) next to the name on the site to tell the world you are claiming a trademark in the name. Once the mark is registered, then you can use the registered trademark symbol ®.