Choosing Your Domain Name

Today, the dizzying social media discussions and new media mania seems to upstage the “web 101” questions that so many people still have, such as, “How do I find and buy a domain name?” This came up at a meeting yesterday, so I decided to resurrect an article I wrote long before this blog even existed. I’ve altered it slightly, but the overall message is still very relevant.

What exactly is a domain name?

Your domain name is essentially your “street address” on the Internet. In the old days, the only way to connect to a website was to enter a series of numbers, such as 66.102.7.99. Domain names were developed to make it easier to find people, places and businesses online. For example, that cryptic numbered

address above is better known today as Google.com.

Make your list

Deciding on a domain name is an important (and fun!) first step in building your web presence. The name will help visitors find you. Plus, if you’re a business, your domain name will be an extension of your brand. Try to find a name that describes your site’s purpose or includes your company name.

First, pick up a note pad or open a Word file and start brainstorming. Don’t discount any idea just yet. Get your juices flowing and come up with a preliminary list of ideas.

Keys to a good domain name

• Keep your domain name short and simple.
• Try to create a domain name that is easy to remember.
• Select a domain name that is easy to spell.
• Avoid cute. Go for clarity. Keep in mind you may have to give out your domain name over the phone. Avoid confusion by keeping it simple. Cute spelling may work on a license plate but will become irritating when you have to spell it out during each and every phone call. For example, waterworkz2go.com may look great on a business card but when you have to spell it out for someone by phone, you’ll find yourself stumbling over “z” not “s”…and “number 2” not “to.”
• Forgo hyphens, when possible. If you do have to go with hyphens, make sure the non-hyphenated version of the domain doesn’t link to a competitor. Remember, hyphens also make it hard to give out your domain verbally.
• Remember your keywords. Google takes your domain name very seriously…and literally. Try to include words that describe your business well and that others will likely enter into Google.
• Buy multiple names. Will your domain name be easily misspelled? Do you see potential in more than one domain name? Buy both names and redirect, or forward, all names to the master domain. Not sure what this means yet? No problem. Buy now. Forward later. The important thing is to claim the domain names that fit you and your business best.

Check Availability

Once you have a substantial list of ideas, begin researching each domain name’s availability on one of the registration sites. The research is free. My favorite registration site is GoDaddy. Don’t become discouraged when you find many if the names are already registered. GoDaddy does a great job suggesting alternate ideas. And, chances are you’ll think of new ideas as you go (add them to your list!). Keep drilling down until you find one that’s available!

Don’t Wait

Every day 40,000 new domain names are registered. If you’ve found an available name, sleep on it. If it still rings true and feels good the next day–jump on it!

Still have questions? Chances are others do, too! Please add your question to the comments area below and we’ll make sure you get the answers you need!