The appropriate symbol is placed immediately after the trademark in superscript font (e.g., ™ or ®). If the specific characters are not available in the word processing software being used, then using the symbols in parenthetical form is also acceptable (e.g., (TM) or (R)).
If the mark is registered, use the superscript ® symbol or other appropriate notice of registration instead. Always use the trademark consistently, including the same spelling, punctuation, and spacing. Always use a trademark as an adjective that modifies a noun, and never as a singular or plural noun.
Anyone can use a TM symbol regardless of whether they've successfully registered the trademark, or whether they've applied for a trademark at all. Even if the trademark application is rejected, the owner can continue to use the TM symbol.
You can trademark your logo in either black and white or color. If you choose black and white, your trademark registration will cover any colors you may choose for your logo in the future, giving you flexibility to change colors and still retain your trademark protection.
The trademark office will then evaluate your application to see if it qualifies for trademark protection. Best of all, they will not consider the other business who is using the same name if they haven't filed for trademark protection. This means you can get a trademark even if someone else is using your business name.
You can not register marks that are inherently offensive or obscene. You can not register marks that are generic that simply name a type or class or product or service. For example, you can't trademark “lamp” for a company that makes lamps.
You may use a trademark symbol anywhere around your trademark, although most trademark owners put the symbol in a superscript or subscript to the right of their trademark. You can use “TM” for goods or “SM” for services.
In general, the permissions process involves a simple five-step procedure: Determine if permission is needed. Identify the owner. Identify the rights needed. Contact the owner and negotiate whether payment is required. Get your permission agreement in writing.
Usually, businesses will use the TM symbol to indicate their first usage or that they have applied for its registration. A trademark owner can use the TM symbol only after he/she has filed a trademark application with the Registrar of Trademarks.
How to make sure you have a strong logo design for your trademark. Use a unique image or graphic design rather than something generic. Keep it clean and clear with a good use of color and empty space. Use easy-to-read typography. Make sure your design represents your brand identity and appeals to your target audience.