Choosing the Domain Name of Your Dreams
(Page 1 of 4 )
Your domain name should be the most memorable part of your business. Many web site owners struggle with this important decision, or lament that “all the good ones are taken.” I can’t tell you how to create the next Amazon or Google, but I can offer a few pointers on creating a domain name.
Let’s start with the idea that the domain name should be memorable. Put another way, it should be easy to remember. What helps make a domain name stick in one’s mind?
For openers, size matters. You want a short domain name. Not everyone who visits your web site is going to bookmark it right away. Who will want to take the time to type out “myfabulousbusinessdomainsellingawesomebluewidgets.com”? That’s a permitted domain, by the way; it’s well under the limit of 63 characters. But I wouldn’t recommend that you register it.
A memorable domain name is also easy to pronounce. Even if you have your domain name printed on business cards and in your tag line in email and on forums, there will be plenty of times when you’re talking with someone on the phone (or in person), when you tell them your URL verbally. Also, when someone is trying to recall the name of a business, they’ll often say it out loud or to themselves. When you’re brainstorming your domain name, try saying it as you would to refer someone over the phone: “You can place your order through my web site at thecoolestsiteontheweb.com.” If your tongue trips over it, or you feel as if you have to spell any part of it, you need to brainstorm some more.
Speaking of spelling, you should also make sure your domain is easy to spell. I know that may seem less important with Google’s “Did you mean…?” feature, but trust me, it matters. For example, a number of people use their own names for their personal and/or business web sites. It’s a great idea for some folks, but it won’t work for others. I’m a good example of this, and it’s because of the spelling issue. There are at least two legitimate ways to spell my last name: Wells as in H.G., and Welles as in Orson. My first name is worse; I’ve seen Terri but also Teri, Terry and Terrie, and there are probably more variations out there. If a potential visitor is at all uncertain as to how your URL is spelled, he or she is a lot less likely to find your site.
Next: Points of Contention >>
More Website Promotion Articles
More By Terri Wells
