Struggling to pick a domain name? Some overthink it, others try random words, and some aim for clever puns like “BarkSideWalkers” for dog walking or “CopyCrafted” for copywriting.
A catchy brand name works, but as a domain, it needs to be searchable. Unless you’re Apple or Amazon, pick a domain that reflects your brand or products. Follow these best practices to choose wisely.
The 2 Biggest Mistakes When Choosing a Domain Name
- Being too clever.
- Choosing a name no one will search for.
If your business name is clever, like Bark & Bounce, that’s fine! Choose a domain based on your service instead. Use keywords and content to link it to your brand across your site, titles, and meta descriptions.
Tips for Choosing a Domain Name:
- Ensure it’s easy to search for.
- Avoid using
.netor.name; stick to.com. - Skip hyphens or intentional misspellings.
The 3 Key Strategies for Selecting a Domain Name for Your Business
Let’s focus on what works. There are three main strategies for choosing a domain name, depending on your site’s purpose and how you want to be discovered.
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Strategy #1: Choose a Domain Name That’s Easy to Remember
Ever had a song stuck in your head? That’s the phonological loop at work – the brain’s way of remembering things based on how they sound. Names like Coca-Cola, YouTube, and M&M’s are memorable because they feature repeating consonants or vowels, making them easier to recall.
If you’re starting a business or building a brand, using catchy, repetitive sounds in your domain name can help spread your name through word of mouth.
Strategy #2: Choose a Long-Tail Keyword for Your Website Name
Matching your URL to a search term can drive a lot of traffic. Try Googling any three-word phrase related to your business, and you’ll likely see many results with that exact phrase in the domain name, often ranking at the top.
This isn’t by chance—your domain plays a big role in search rankings. While this strategy brings organic traffic, it’s not ideal for building a brand, so you’ll need other content strategies for long-term growth.
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Strategy #3: Use Your Personal Name as Your Domain Name
Sometimes, the simplest solution works best.
The web is now all about personal connections. Your name is your brand and the primary way people search for you. If your business offers personal services, using your name as your domain might be the best choice.
The Domain Name is Just One Piece of the Puzzle
Your URL is important, but traffic also depends on a mobile-friendly site, quality content, and optimized landing pages. A website performs best when all its elements work together. Start with the right domain name, then contact us for a custom website design. Reach out today!