There’s no denying that protecting your brand with a trademark is important. However, with so many trademark myths out there about the application and registration process, it can be confusing. So I’m here to BUST those trademark myths and give you the facts on trademarks.
- The first big-time myth is that trademarks and copyrights are the same things. Absolutely false! Let me clarify the differences. Trademarks are words, symbols, phrases, and designs that are used by businesses. Copyrights protect creative works such as songs, books, and artwork.
But they sound the same so far…
While there are some similarities between the two of them, copyrights and trademarks are very much NOT the same things.
2. Another trademark myth is that you should wait to trademark your business’s name/logo until the business has grown and becomes successful. It is possible (and certainly helpful) to start the process early before you’ve even launched your business. Doing so ensures the trademark is available for you to use and prevents an expensive (and exhausting) rebrand if a trademark issue arises later.
3. The next myth is that you need a lawyer to file for a trademark. This one is mostly false, but there is some truth to it in certain situations. Due to the recent rule change with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), you do need a lawyer if you aren’t domiciled in the U.S. Aside from that, applicants in the United States can register a trademark without a lawyer.
But just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Having an attorney help with your trademark can SIGNIFICANTLY increase your chances of getting your trademark approved. Most trademark attorneys (myself included) do a search beforehand and will be able to strategize the best way to apply to increase the odds being in your favor. Speaking of, if you’d like for me to help protect your brand with a trademark, check out my all-inclusive trademark registration package, Brand Bombshell.
Tune in to this week’s episode of All Up In Yo’ Business to hear the other trademark myths. And be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more All Up In Yo’ Business!
Want more information on trademarks? Check out: What is a Strong Trademark?
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