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Finding a domain for your business can be challenging. Search Engines have complicated the process because keywords designed to please web crawlers are often not intuitive for customers. To help you build a successful online presence, we at Dotster have provided 6 tips to assist you in searching for a great domain.
1. Avoid Complications
A straightforward name is easy to remember and will enhance your brand. Use common words rather than acronyms to increase recognition. Also, avoid including numbers or dashes between words. If you are creating a home page for your business, you will want your domain name to be the same as your business name if at all possible.
2. Short is Better
A domain can contain up to 67 characters, which gives you a lot of flexibility. However, shorter is generally better. The fewer characters someone has to remember, the higher the likelihood they will be able to find your site. A short name also leaves less opportunity for typos and other errors.
3. Spelling, Spelling, Spelling
If your domain name is spoken audibly, will someone know how to spell it? Make sure there aren’t any overly clever or confusing elements that could be difficult to spell. (Example…“thelaffshop.com” vs. “thelaughshop.com”.)
4. Find a Domain Name as Soon as Possible
Look for a domain name at the same time you name your business if at all possible. If you are an established business, you may find that your ideal domain name has already been taken.
If you already have a business name, but can’t get the exact web address you want, don’t despair. Simple variations may express the same idea while being easy to remember and not significantly longer. Also, if the name you want is not available, consider using a different TLD like .NET, .BIZ, or .ME.
5. .COM, .NET or .BIZ…? Picking the Right Extension
Obviously, .COM is the most popular Top Level Domain (TLD) for business. However, there are many extensions available, with plans for many more in the works.
- If you’re starting a business, use .COM, .BIZ, or .NET, or alternately use a country-based TLD such as .US (United States).
- For organizations and non-profits, .ORG is a well-known and trusted TLD. (FYI, anyone can register a .ORG.)
- If you’re starting a personal site or a portfolio, .ME, a fairly new TLD, is a great option.
- Some TLDs have restrictions. .TEL limits site customization but is a great option for those looking for a business card address. Likewise, some Country Code TLDs or International TLDs require citizenship. (Example: You must be a Canadian citizen to register .CA.)
6. Obtain multiple Domain Extensions
Once you’ve found the perfect domain for you site, consider purchasing the same domain name with a different extension if it’s available. For example, if you own animalpostcards.com, you may want to buy animalpostcards.net and other variations as well. Then you can redirect those other domains to the .COM domain to make sure you’re capturing the traffic of all the visitors trying to find your site. Remember to use a 301 redirect so search engines don’t get confused over which domain is your main one.
Conclusion
We hope you have found these recommendations useful. If you’ve got an idea for a domain name, use our domain search to see if it’s available. The tool will also help you find alternate TLD’s and names if your first choice is taken.
One more thing. For a limited time, Dotster is offering 15% off your first order for all YoungEntrepreneur visitors and members. Visit us at www.dotster.com and use Coupon Code “ENTREPRENEUR15* at check out to take advantage of this offer.
Happy Choosing!
About Dotster
Dotster is a leading full-service provider of essential resources for businesses to get online and grow online. The company has helped more than one million businesses and individuals establish their web presence, build their websites, and drive revenue. Dotster offers its customers a complete set of services including the ability to get online with domain registration; build a major web presence with website hosting, email hosting, and custom website design; generate traffic with Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and social media platforms; secure websites with SSL Certificates; and reduce IT costs with VPS hosting.
*LIMITED TIME OFFER. ENTREPRENEUR15 coupon and offer expires April 1, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. ENTREPRENEUR15 coupon is valid for 15% off all new products and services. Renewals on products and services after the initial discounted period will be at the current standard list price for the selected period. Coupon is not valid with domain renewals and transfers or special pricing.
