How to Choose a Domain Name

Choosing a domain name is an important step in developing a web presence.  Before you choose a domain name, consider the following:

1.  Choose a Domain Name That is the Same as Your Business or Company Name

Many times, a business will develop a business or company name first and then look for a domain name, only to find that the name is already taken.  Now they are presented with a dilemma.   Typically, many business steps have already been taken such as obtaining a resale license, business license, and business checking account.  Perhaps they have even ordered business cards, stationary, etc.  Their dilemma is...should they change their business name or go with a domain name that is different from their business name.

What is the impact of choosing a domain name that is different from your business name?  A typical visitor will use the business name when searching for your business.  The problem herein lies when the visitor clicks on the link with your business name in it, however, someone else owns the name and you risk loosing the visitor altogether.   

One solution is to contact the owner of the domain name and offer to purchase the name.  You can do this by looking up the owner of the domain name in the WhoIs directory (see WhoIs listed in the Domain Name Hosting Privacy Article).

While this solution might work for you, your best resolution is to choose your domain name first.  Then name your business.

2.  Choose a Domain Name With a ".com" Extension

Yes, there are some cool extensions available, like .net, .biz, .info, .tv, .cc and more.  Even though it might be tempting to choose such an extension, it is recommended that you choose a domain name extension that is very common.  By far,  ".com" is the most popular extension on the web.  Choosing ".com" will make it easier for visitors to find you.  The reason you should choose a domain name with a ".com" extension is because ".com" is so popular.  Visitors will automatically use it when typing a URL into the browser.  Imagine their surprise and your competitors thicker wallet, when they find a similar company and buy from them instead.

3.  Avoid Domain Names that Include Misspelled Names

Avoid domain names that include misspelled names.  Often, businesses take advantage of commonly misspelled names and hope that they can steal customers from their intended destination.  If you choose a name that is commonly misspelled, register the misspelled version as well if that is possible.

4.  Avoid Name With Dashes

Avoid names with dashes for the same reason as you should avoid names that are commonly misspelled.  Visitors will type your URL into the browser without the dashes and end up at your competitors site.  Visitors do not automatically think to use a dash when entering your URL. 

5.  Check To Be Sure the Domain Name is Not Already Trademarked

Prior to choosing a name, check to be sure that the name does not include any trademark phrases.  Using a name that has a trademarked phrase could result in a trademark violation lawsuit.

6.  Avoid Having Your Domain Name Expire Out From Under You

Choosing your domain name took a lot of effort and even more effort went into your website design.  Image your surprise to have your domain name expire and someone else snap the name up.  You worked hard to increase your visitors to your site.  Avoid having your domain name expire by registering your domain name for as long as possible.  In fact, register your domain name for years in advance instead of the annual renewal option.  Domain names are cheap. Do not let your domain name expire out from under you!

By Robert J. Miller.  Copyright 2008 TenBestWebHostingSites.com 

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