This article will discuss the eleven mistakes to avoid when choosing a domain name. Choosing the right domain name is crucial when creating an online presence.
The domain name serves as your online identity. Brings credibility and overall success. However, selecting a domain name can be a tricky and overwhelming process.
That doesn’t need to be the case anymore. Let’s look at these mistakes and how best to avoid them!
What’s a domain, and where can I get one?
A domain is your website’s name, which people search on search bars or search engines to reach your website.
Domains come in different forms. A complete domain, however, has three parts; Let’s use www.truehost.com:
- The www- is the subdomain that enables accessibility through the internet.
- Truehost is the domain name.
- .com- it’s the top-level domain extension.
Finding a good domain name relies on you! You need to take time to research and know more about your competition.
Also, know the healthy practices to utilize before proceeding to buy. After all, visit Truehost and find your domain!
Reasons why Truehost is best for you:
- They have affordable domains- buy a domain for as low as $1.99.
- Reliable support- their team can readily assist and solve issues instantly.
- Their uptime guarantee ensures your site is safe and accessible with 99.98% uptime.
- Offer many services- you can also get hosting, emails, etc.
Visit Truehost today and get their services!
Avoid these when choosing your domain name
1.Forgeting to conduct more research.
Research is essential in choosing your domain name to use. It helps you know about your competition and infringement rights.
Ensure to choose a name that’s not already taken and is not too similar to an existing website. A good name should ensure your site is free from legal trouble.
Take your time and research more about your domain. Please share it with friends and ask for their feedback before using it.
2. Choosing a complicated name
Many people often need to correct this when choosing a domain name. They often use any name without considering other users.
For them, it’s easy; a complicated domain name can be challenging to remember and type. Such will hurt your website’s traffic.
Please keep it simple and memorable, so people can easily recall it.
3. Not considering the future.
As mentioned, the domain plays a huge part in your website’s success. A good name should be inclusive of your website’s future.
Before choosing your domain name, think about the long-term goals of your business or brand. Will the name be relevant in a few years?
Choosing a name that will stand the test of time is essential. Ensure it includes all your business will provide in the future.
Don’t be in a rush; include your domain in your business plans.
4. Using hyphens or numbers
These are the most overlooked items. They are simple yet can be destructive when it comes to your website.
One can easily miss or mistype them; just like that, they can’t access your site. Also, sharing about it is difficult as it seems odd!
Elude the use of hyphens and numbers in your domain name. They can make your domain name difficult to remember, and the type can lead to confusion.
Focus on making it simple without adding numbers or hyphens. Try your business name.
5. Choosing your domain name that is too long
Many often don’t realize this mistake until it’s too late. It’s a unique name, but it also hurts your website metrics.
At times it’s hard for people to remember. One may also miss some characters, and they can’t find your site!
e It’s best to keep it short and sweet. A short domain name is easy to remember and type, and it will make your website stand out.
6. Not using a top-level domain (TLD)
TLD means a lot to a new domain name. They help it propagate and land new clients daily. Most people choose these extensions according to pricing.
That’s wrong; every extension has significance! Here is an example:
- .com is mostly used for commercial purposes. A business can fit well in this!
- .net – networking solutions.
- .org- non-profit organizations.
- .ac.ke- academic institutions.
Using a top-level domain (TLD) such as .com, .org, or .net is important for the credibility and professionalism of your website.
It also helps with SEO and website growth. Choose a perfect extension and make your website succeed online.
7. Using trademarked names
Some people don’t know about this terrible mistake. It can cost your business! Different companies invest in their domains.
They have legal rights, and using their name will land you in court. Ensure your domain name does not infringe on existing trademarks before registering it.
Conduct a trademark search to ensure you are not infringing on any existing trademarks. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Make sure to conduct enough research and find a unique name.
8. Not considering SEO
SEO is very crucial for a website. A good domain name uses keywords relevant to the brand name. Most people need to remember this.
Efforts are only possible with relevant keywords, even with Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Find a domain name relevant to your business or industry.
Ensure to include keywords to help people find your website easily.
9. Paying too much for a generic name
Many want their sites to grow instantly. They need to remember that it takes time, and sites like Amazon to their time and efforts like advertisements.
Don’t speed up too much on a generic domain name when you can invest in marketing. Later it will change your brand name.
Invest your efforts in branding your domain. Take time to know what works and what doesn’t before spending on just the name.
10. Not trying to pursue your ideal name.
Ever had an idea for a domain name only to discover that someone else had already registered it?
Even if the domain is already in use, the owner may be willing to sell it for a reasonable price. You can contact the owner and find out more.
Stay energized if your ideal domain needs to be within reach. There is many fish to choose from in the sea. You might be surprised at the other domains available to you.
You might find a better domain than the one you originally selected!
11. Not checking social media availability.
Social media presence is now essential for businesses. Connect with potential customers on websites like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and you can also build a devoted following.
Nonetheless, it’s imperative to remember that consistency is vital for branding. If your organization utilizes many names across different platforms, creating a consistent brand identity is challenging, which is not readily obvious to customers.
Choosing your domain name for your new business that is conscious and consistently used in all your marketing channels.
Customers can find you more quickly using the same name across all platforms. It will also help you improve brand recognition.
Pick a domain name that you use in social media.
To sum up;
Choosing a domain name is critical for anyone looking to establish an online presence. Avoiding these eleven common mistakes can help you choose a domain name that is memorable, easy to remember, and will stand the test of time.
Do your research, consider the future, and consider SEO when selecting a domain name. Remember, your domain name is an essential part of your online identity, and it can make or break your website’s success.
Get started with your online presence today!