Choosing a domain name is one of the first steps in creating a website online, therefore it is important that you get it right, otherwise it could cause problems for your business.
Are you having trouble selecting a domain name for your business? Well here are 15 tips to help you create and register the right domain name for you.
Make it Easy to Type.
It is critical that you choose a domain name that for customers and potential customers is easy to type.
Avoid using slang text or words that have multiple ways of spelling it, this is because it is harder for customers to find because you may spell a certain word differently to how they do, therefore you will not appear in their search for something that could potentially be relevant to your business.
Make it Unique.
Make your domain name as unique as your business! Don’t pick something that’s easily confused with something else, especially competitors, you do not want to be mistaken for someone else within the same industry as you.
So, making your domain name unique will help you stand out among the crowd and help to build a reputation for your business.
Use Keywords.
Try using keywords within your domain name that describe your business and services you offer. That way when customers and potential customers are doing a search you will appear based on the keywords they have typed into their search.
For example; as a business, if the main service you provide is window cleaning, and a main keyword/keyword phrase search is ‘window cleaners’, you could use cleaners in your domain name such as; essexwindowcleaners.com.
Avoid Copyright Infringement.
Don’t use a trademarked or copyrighted phrase for your domain name! Before you register yours be sure to run it through some free checkers to ensure you can use that domain name.
Some free domain name checkers are;
Keep it Short.
If your domain is long and complex you run the risk of a mistype or spelling mistake from customers and potential customers.
Therefore, you need to keep your domain name short and simple, it is the best bet if you want to ensure your domain name is typed and spelt properly when customers are searching for you.
Avoid Punctuation and Numbers.
Punctuation is confusing, so avoid using it at all costs, many URL’s are plain text. So, when you choose your domain name keep that in mind, as they perform better.
Also, avoid using numbers within your domain name, unless your business’ name includes one or multiple.
Target your Area.
If your business is local consider including a city, county or state in your domain name, for example; Essex. When customers are searching for something, nine times out of ten, they will search for a service in a specific county.
Be Direct.
There are of course certain phrases and words that without a doubt will draw people in, however they may not be your target audience, so all that traffic becomes useless.
Therefore, be sure the domain name you choose is to the point and direct about who you are/what you provide as a business.
Be Memorable.
Having a catchy/memorable domain name is essential, as it helps your business stand out!
Once you have decided on a domain name share it with just a few close friends and family to get their opinion on the name and to make sure it makes sense in terms of matching to your business services.
Easy to Remember.
The more letters and words that you include in your domain name the more likely it is for customers getting it wrong or forgetting it.
So, make it relevant! That way it’s easier for customers and potential customers to remember.
Research, Research, Research.
Do lots of research, this could be around keywords/keyword phrases, already existing domain names that are like yours, etc.
Be sure your domain name is right for you based on all your research, before you decide to register it! You don’t want to make a mistake before you’ve even started.
Protect and Build Your Brand.
To protect your brand, you should purchase various domain extensions, why? Because this prevents competitors from registering other versions and ensures your customers are directed to you.
You could even purchase misspelled versions, as this to will help ensure your customers are directed to you.
Act Fast.
Domain names sell out fast, but thankfully they are inexpensive, so register your domain name as soon as possible.
If you are having trouble finding one, there are domain registrars such as; GoDaddy, that can help suggest alternate names during your domain search.
Use an Appropriate Domain Name Extension.
Choose one that works for your business! The .com is by far the most popular, but can therefore be tough getting a short and memorable .com domain name because it has been around for so long and is the most popular.
Below is a list of other Domain Name Extensions;
- .co (abbreviation for company, commerce or community)
- .net (for technical or internet infrastructure sites)
- .org (for non-commercial and non-profit organisations)
Use a Domain Tool.
Are you having writers block? Good domain tools can help with this and suggest some quality potential domain names for you.
Examples of Domain Tools;
- Dot-o-mator – This has two offerings, advanced Web 2.0 generator or its basic generator.
- DomainGroovy.com – Which creates a lot of potential domain names for you from user-input keywords, it also offers on-site domain purchases.