Whether you are just starting a new business or you help run a larger corporation, you know firsthand how important marks are to your company’s success. When developing a new company, item or store, it is critical to design a mark that will help people identify your brand.
Designing a mark can be daunting, however, as there is a process to ensure that you choose a mark not currently in use by another company or product. By federally registering your trademark, you may avoid certain troubles that may arise in the future.
Trademark registration
Although registering your mark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office is not required to use a mark for your product, there are certain benefits to doing so. With a registered trademark, you can place the registered trademark symbol “®” after your mark, telling the public that it is federally registered and protected. At this point, no other companies can use marks or symbols similar to yours without possible repercussions.
If someone does use a mark similar to yours, and that mark could confuse customers into buying a product because they thought it was yours, you may pursue legal action as a registered trademark holder. Without a registered trademark, you cannot take this legal course of action to protect your mark against trademark infringement.
Furthermore, registering your mark adds value to your company. A registered trademark may help you to sell your company for a higher price tag or attract more buyers.
Meeting the requirements
For your trademark to be eligible for registration, it must meet certain requirements. Trademarks must be one of the following:
- Name
- Brand
- Word
- Logo
- Sign
- Symbol
These items identify a company, business, product or service. Before filling out a registration application, make sure the mark is not currently in use.
Making the most of trademarks makes the most of your company. Be sure to put this information to good use.
