Some people assume that if you have a high-quality website, people will visit no matter what the domain name is.
Well, that is not quite correct.
It’s actually so important to get your domain name right.
The reason is, your domain name counts as your first impression; your URL is the first thing people will see – so you want to make a positive and lasting impression.
Secondly, your domain name defines your brand and is the perfect branding opportunity.
After getting a good domain name, finding the best web hosting is also important. You need to consider many factors when choosing your web host.
So, how exactly do you choose a name for your website? Here are 5 factors to consider when choosing a domain name for your website.
1. Domain Name Extensions: .com, .org or .net
When it comes to domain name extensions, you can be confident that “.com” is still the better option.
Whilst it can be tempting to be unique, (extensions like “.pizza” are out there!), “.com” is still the most established and credible extension.
In addition, many internet users will type “.com” at the end of every domain out of habit, so “.com” remains the most memorable.
For example, let’s say your website is called “alex.graphics”, some users may type it with “.com” at the end and end up on another graphic designers page or see an error page.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid this risk by sticking to what’s known; plus most devices automatically have a “.com” button.
2. Something Brandable
Creative names that can be branded are always better than names that are generic.
At the end of the day, your domain name is how your visitors will find and remember you – it’s the foundation of your brand.
To choose a brandable domain name, think of creating your own catchy words – just like Google and Yahoo did.
Or, you could use existing words – use a thesaurus to find words that best fit your brand.
Lastly, there are even domain name generators you could use – these tools will create a unique name using influences from names, initials and industry specifics.
3. Short and Sweet
Whilst some argue keywords are important, you don’t want to go overboard with your domain length – you do want to be memorable right?
It’s recommended to keep your domain name under 15 characters; longer names make it harder for your audience to remember.
Moreover, with longer domain names your audience are more likely to enter typos, leading to a loss in website traffic.
4. Easy to Type and Pronounce
When you think of the most popular websites worldwide, what comes to mind?
Usually, it’s Google, Yahoo, Amazon, Twitter, Facebook etc.
And for good reason, they’re easy to spell, type and pronounce.
Ultimately, your visitors should be able to type in your domain name without any issues, and if you have to explain a spelling more than once it might be a problem!
At the same time, your domain name should roll off the tongue as it does off your fingertips – with ease.
Again, you can put this to the test by writing it down and asking people to pronounce it, and if a few people struggle, you should look to simplify it.
5. Do Your Research
The last thing you want is to decide on a domain name to later find out it’s already trademarked.
Ideally, you want the same name across all the platforms your business uses; this will be easier to build your brand as it becomes familiar and makes it easier for your visitors to find you on the web.
Plus, you don’t really want to be involved in any legal issues, so it’s best to stay away from those that already exist.
As such, do your research and once you’ve decided on your domain name, get it trademarked.
Final Remarks
Hopefully, this article has given you some food for thought when it comes to choosing a domain name for your website.
Just remember, whatever you choose will have a significant impact on the success and optimisation of your website, so do put in careful thought as your brand relies upon it!
Do you need help with your Website Design in Birmingham or anywhere in the world? I’m available for a chat so please get in touch at design@marknarusson.com – thanks.
This blog was produced in collaboration with:
Vehicle Weight Checker solutions of Weightru, and written by the team at Axies Digital.
