One of the most critical decisions you have to make when starting a new web site is just what the domain name should be. On the surface, this seems like an easy task. All you have to do is use your business name – right? Unfortunately, it isn’t always that easy. The right domain name will drive traffic to your site and increase your visibility and profits.
When choosing a new domain name it is important to keep in mind seven key points.
1. What is in a suffix?
While it is true that ‘.com’ is unquestionably the most recognizable suffix available, there are other popular choices. .Net, .Org, .US and others are all equally viable suffixes. It is important to remember this when picking a unique domain name. This is especially true when your first choice is already taken with the suffix ‘.com.’ Instead of using a less appropriate domain name and the ‘.com’ suffix; consider using one of the alternative suffixes. For example, www.xyz.com may not be available but www.xyz.net may be. If you do choose one of the alternatives suffixes be sure to clearly state your entire domain name whenever you gave it out.
2. Your domain name should mirror the contents of your website.
In order to capitalize on search engine optimization, it is crucial that your domain name accurately reflect your website contents. Simply put, the website www.abc.com may seem easy to remember but if it does not reflect the contents of the web site, your users are unlikely to associate the domain name with your product or service.
3. Include the domain suffix as part of your unique domain name.
In some cases it is possible to create a domain name that includes the suffix. For example: epi.curi.us, where epi is the sub-domain, curi is the domain and .us is the suffix. As you can see it can be quite difficult to use this technique but when you can, it is incredibly effective and will allow your potential users to easily remember your domain name.
4. Domain names should be short.
Remember that not all of your users will access your website from a link. Because of this, it is crucial that your domain name be short and easy to remember. It is a great idea to try and keep your domain name fewer than ten characters.
5. Your domain name should be a key word.
Never forget that search engines rely on keywords in order to rank results. By including your keywords in your domain name you will likely increase your search engine rankings. Additionally, users are more likely to visit your site if they recognize the keyword or words they were searching for in your domain name.
6. Why not use your name?
Another great option for selecting a domain name is to use your own name. This works particularly well if you have a short name and have a blog-based web site. The great thing about a name based domain name is that each and every visitor to your sites will get to learn your name.
7. Make up a new word.
If you’re starting a large website you may want to consider making up a word and using it as your domain name. This tactic has been used successfully by web sites such as Facebook and Myspace. Do not be afraid to employ this tactic if you’re planning on creating a large website.
Choosing effective domain name is a vital part of any new web site. Following these seven simple rules will help you to pick the best domain name possible. Never underestimate the importance of an easily recognizable and remembered domain name.
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