3 Easy Steps to Make a Trademark Sign: A Guide for Beginners
In the realm of branding and intellectual property protection, trademarks play a pivotal role in safeguarding your unique creations. Displaying the trademark symbol next to your brand name or logo adds an extra layer of legitimacy and informs the world that you’re serious about protecting your brand identity.
But how do you actually create this elusive trademark sign? Don’t fret, my friend! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the simple steps to make a trademark sign, empowering you to stake your claim in the world of branding.
Step 1: Understand the Trademark Symbol
Before we dive into the "how-to" part, let’s familiarize ourselves with the trademark symbol, also known as the "TM" symbol. Legally speaking, the TM symbol isn’t an official trademark registration, but it serves a purpose: it informs potential infringers that you claim this mark as your own.
Step 2: Create Your Trademark
Here’s the fun part – creating your unique trademark! A trademark can be a word, phrase, symbol, or design that distinguishes your goods or services from those of your competitors. Choose something that’s memorable, relevant to your brand, and preferably not already in use by others.
Step 3: Place the TM Symbol
Now that you have a trademark, it’s time to attach the TM symbol. Simply place the symbol next to your trademark, immediately following it in superscript or subscript style. Here’s an example:
Example Company™
How to Make a Trademark Sign on Different Platforms
Microsoft Word
- Select the text you want to trademark.
- Click on the "Superscript" button in the Font section of the ribbon.
- Type in "TM" and press Enter.
Google Docs
- Select the text you want to trademark.
- Click on the "Format" menu and select "Superscript."
- Type in "TM" and press Enter.
Social Media
Most social media platforms automatically convert the trademark symbol "™" to the correct superscript format when it is typed in.
Additional Tips
- Use the TM symbol only for unregistered trademarks.
- Once your trademark is officially registered, use the ® symbol instead.
- The TM symbol doesn’t guarantee legal protection.
- Consider consulting with an attorney for professional advice on trademark registration.
- Have fun and be creative with your trademark design!
Conclusion
Creating a trademark sign is a simple and effective way to protect your brand and establish a strong brand identity. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily make a trademark sign and start safeguarding your intellectual property. Don’t forget to explore our other articles on branding, marketing, and digital strategy for more insights and inspiration.
FAQ about Trademark Sign
What is a trademark sign?
Answer: A trademark sign is a symbol that indicates a word, phrase, design, or other identifier as a trademark. It is typically the letter "™" or "℠".
When should I use a trademark sign?
Answer: You should use a trademark sign as soon as you start using a trademark to establish your ownership and prevent others from using it without your permission.
Where should I place the trademark sign?
Answer: The trademark sign should be placed next to the trademark, either to the right or immediately below it.
What is the difference between "™" and "℠"?
Answer: The "™" symbol indicates an unregistered trademark, while the "℠" symbol indicates a service mark.
Can I use a trademark sign for a common law trademark?
Answer: Yes, you can use a trademark sign for a common law trademark, but it is not required.
Do I need to register my trademark to use a trademark sign?
Answer: No, you do not need to register your trademark to use a trademark sign. However, registration provides additional protection and benefits.
What if I use a trademark sign without having a trademark?
Answer: Using a trademark sign without having a trademark can be considered deceptive and may result in legal consequences.
How do I get a trademark sign on my keyboard?
Answer: On a Windows computer, press Alt + 0153 (for "™") or Alt + 0169 (for "℠"). On a Mac, press Option + 2 (for "™") or Option + Shift + 2 (for "℠").
Can I trademark a symbol?
Answer: Yes, you can trademark a symbol as long as it is distinctive and not descriptive.
What is the penalty for using a trademark sign without permission?
Answer: Using a trademark sign without permission can result in legal action, including injunctions, damages, and attorney’s fees.
