Tips to choose a domain name
Choosing a domain name is very similar to choosing a business name. You want a name that is easy to recall and distinct.
Assuming that you already have a business name, you may want your domain name to be the same as your business name. This may not be possible if your business name is something generic like ‘Innovative Solutions Limited’.
You will then need to consider other options which can get very confusing. Your domain name is your identity on the web and you want it to be easy for people to find. Here are some tips to get you on the right path.
Easy to Pronounce and Spell
Choose a name that is easy to spell. Names that have people wondering if there is a double or triple ’s’ will have them confused and your website will be hard to find.
When you say the name of your website, people must be able to understand and write it down. If you have to explain and spell it, then it’s harder for people to find later on.
Avoid using numbers, hyphens and slang words. Explaining that the ‘for’ in your domain name is number ‘4’ is sure to confuse people.
Keep to letters only for an easy domain name.
Short and Memorable
Where possible, keep your domain name short. The longer it is, the harder it is for people to remember and spell correctly.
To create a memorable domain name, you can create your own words. Amazon, google and yahoo are all made up words. Try it out and see if you can create a new brandname.
Use Keywords
You can use keywords that describe your niche to create a domain name. You can use a tool like Google Keyword Planner to help you research keywords.
You have to be careful here not to end up with a long generic domain name. Use keywords sparingly.
Be Original
Don’t copy an existing domain name. This doesn’t require much explanation. Just don’t.
Your business is unique, find a domain name that expresses the uniqueness of your business and use that to build your brand.
Also do your research and make sure that the name you select is not already trademarked.
Check availability on Social media sites
For consistency, your social media handles and domain name should be the same. This makes your brand easier to find on all platforms.
Check availability of your domain name on the social media sites you intend to use before you go ahead and register the domain name.
Use the right extension
Use .com where possible. The .com extension is still the most popular and less tech savvy users will automatically type .com for a domain name.
There are many new extension types available which may be suitable for your niche but I would advise that you also reserve the .com version of your domain name. You don’t have to build multiple websites, you can just point the .com to the other extension you choose.
If you’re registering a non-profit, .org is more appropriate for you. For country specific brands, you can use the country specific domains such as .ng, .co.uk, .co.za and so on.
Conclusion
Your domain name is your brand online. Getting it right will affect the online performance of your brand, so choose carefully.
Domain registrars like Godaddy will suggest similar names if the name you’re searching for is already taken.
What are you waiting for? Go register your domain name today.