Picking a Great Domain Name

One of the very first things you will have to do when creating a website is also one of the most difficult things to do. What we are thinking about is coming up with a domain name that is not only great for your site and its purpose, but that is also available. The problem is, as you most likely already have noticed, that many of the best domain names already are taken. However, do not worry as it is still possible to find a real gem. Take your time and try to keep the following tips and tricks in mind when looking for a domain name.

Get a matching domain name

The most traditional, and perhaps also best, way of trying to find a domain name is in looking for a domain that matches the name of your site. Say that you have a site named Whatever We Want – then your domain name should be www.whateverwewant.com, also known as a branded domain name. This is even more so important when your site becomes a household name on the web as you want your visitors to find it as easy as possible.

A risk you will take in not picking a matching name is losing returning visitors as they might remember the name of your site but not the URL, if it is different. Also, try to give your site, and domain, a name that reflects what the site is about. If your site is about fishing, make sure that the name somehow reflects the world of fishing.

Use Keywords

As the owner of a website you obviously want as many visitors as possible. One way of increasing the possibilities of a greater number of visitors is in choosing a domain name that consists of one or two of your most important keywords. Unfortunately, it can be quite tricky to find a good and reflective domain name that consists of an important keyword as many already have implemented this strategy in their online business, hence vacuuming the web for good domain names. However, it is still far from impossible and once you find that oh so important domain name consisting of a keyword – grab it once! If you succeed in this you will have a much easier time climbing the steps on the search engine rankings.

The Domain Name Should be Short

This is important to think about as it is a fact that people do not remember a domain name if it is too long. Another advantage with a short domain name is that it will be easier for your visitors to spell. Keep in mind though that you should not keep the domain name short just for the sake of keeping it short. If the name gets cut off in a strange and unnatural way you put memorability and branding at risk.

Pick a Creative Domain Name

Generic domain names are still popular but picking a creative domain name can also be a good alternative. Chances are that your preferred generic name already is taken, which means that it is time for you to exercise your creative muscles. Let us take an example, if the domain name CoolApplications.com was already taken, you might want to consider variations such as CoolApps.com. Think long and hard, you just might be able to come up with a potential hit.

We understand that it can be a bit discouraging but get out there. Take the time it takes as it will be worth it in the end. A last tip is considering alternative domain extensions if you are finding it impossible to retrieve an available .com domain. But be quick as these are also increasing in popularity.

Continue the step-by-step guide

So, now you know what to think about when choosing a domain name. The next step is understanding what youshould look for in a hosting provider to keep a happy relationship between the two of you.