Domain Naming - get it right

When selecting a domain name that fits your site best, you have to decide which top-level domain you want to have.

So ask yourself, do you absolutely need “.com” in your domain name, as many prefer, or are you okay with “.net” or “.biz”? Since “.com” is recognized worldwide as the domain name of business, you will most likely want to stick with it.

Opinions among SEO experts are divided about whether to include keywords in your domain. But if you are building a small content site in a very specific niche, including keywords in the domain can increase clickthroughs to your site. After all, if you are searching for tiny toys for your pet Chihuahua, aren’t you more likely to click on a search engine listing called TinyDogStuff.com than a more generic sounding name?

The key is to do your research in order to find the right domain name for your site that isn’t already owned by someone else. And use a reputable registrar: GoDaddy.com and other domain name registrars enable you to look up possible domain names so you can eliminate options, as well as to register a domain name.

Remember that some merchants forbid you from using certain keywords in a domain name. The same holds true for trademarks. Never assume that “common” words are not trademarked - you might be surprised. The best way to cover your bases is to read over your affiliate agreement, as well as the terms and conditions of the program, very carefully before you decide on a domain that includes keywords.

You should also think about whether you are okay with inserting hyphens or possibly adjusting the spelling of your domain. TinyDogToys.com may be taken, but TinyDogToyz.com may not. Just remember not to confuse your audience. If you have to adjust the spelling significantly, perhaps you’ll want to brainstorm a little more.

domain names