Search for Trade Mark Before You Build Your Brand
Search for Trade Mark Before You Build Your Brand
Blog Article
One of the biggest mistakes new business owners make is failing to search for trade mark before choosing a name, logo, or slogan. It’s easy to get excited about branding, but skipping this step can lead to legal disputes, rebranding headaches, and financial losses.
What Happens If You Don’t Do a Trademark Search?
Risk of Trademark Infringement
If your brand name is already trademarked, you could face legal action that forces you to change it. Even if you weren’t aware of the conflict, you could still be held liable.
Unexpected Rebranding Costs
If you’ve already printed business cards, launched a website, and invested in marketing, rebranding can be a costly nightmare.
Lost Business Opportunities
A trademark conflict could prevent you from expanding your business, especially if the trademark owner is in the same industry.
How to Properly Search for Trade Mark
Start with an Online Search
Before diving into official databases, do a quick Google search to see if any businesses are using your desired name or logo.
Check Trademark Databases
Use the USPTO or WIPO to search for registered trademarks. Also, check domain names and social media handles to ensure availability.
Work with a Trademark Professional
Trademark experts can help conduct thorough searches and provide legal guidance to ensure your brand is safe to use.
By taking a few extra steps to search for trade mark, you can avoid major business headaches and confidently build your brand.
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