Tips for Choosing the Right Domain Name for Your Business
Your domain name is more than just a web address; it's a crucial part of your brand identity. It's how customers find you online, how they remember you, and how they perceive your business. Choosing the right domain name can significantly impact your online success. This guide provides practical advice and best practices to help you select a domain name that is memorable, relevant, and easy to find online.
Brainstorming Domain Name Ideas
The first step in choosing a domain name is to brainstorm a list of potential options. Think about your business, your products or services, and your target audience. Consider what makes your business unique and try to incorporate those elements into your domain name.
Consider Your Brand Name
If you have a strong brand name, it should be your first choice for a domain. This helps reinforce your brand recognition and makes it easier for customers to find you. However, if your brand name is long or difficult to spell, you might need to consider alternatives.
Think About Keywords
Keywords are words or phrases that people use when searching for information online. Including relevant keywords in your domain name can improve your search engine ranking and make it easier for potential customers to find you. For example, if you own a bakery in Melbourne, incorporating "Melbourne bakery" into your domain name could be beneficial.
Location, Location, Location
If your business serves a specific geographic area, including your location in your domain name can be a great way to attract local customers. This is especially important for businesses like restaurants, plumbers, and electricians. For instance, "SydneyPlumbingExperts.com.au" clearly indicates the business's location and service.
Avoid Numbers and Hyphens (Generally)
While there are exceptions, it's generally best to avoid using numbers and hyphens in your domain name. They can be confusing and make your domain name harder to remember. For example, "BestPlumber4U.com.au" is less memorable than "BestPlumber.com.au". Hyphens can also be easily forgotten or misplaced.
Keeping it Short, Simple, and Memorable
A short, simple, and memorable domain name is easier for customers to remember and type into their browser. Aim for a domain name that is easy to pronounce and spell. Avoid using complicated words or phrases that people might misspell.
Aim for Brevity
The shorter your domain name, the better. Shorter names are easier to remember, type, and share. Try to keep your domain name under 15 characters if possible.
Simplicity is Key
Avoid using jargon, slang, or unusual words in your domain name. Stick to simple, straightforward language that everyone can understand. This will reduce the chances of misspellings and make your domain name more memorable.
Make it Memorable
A memorable domain name is one that sticks in people's minds. Use words that are easy to recall and that relate to your business. Consider using alliteration or rhyme to make your domain name more catchy. For example, "TastyTreats.com.au" is more memorable than "MelbourneBakery.com.au".
Using Relevant Keywords
Incorporating relevant keywords into your domain name can improve your search engine optimisation (SEO) and help potential customers find you online. However, it's important to use keywords naturally and avoid keyword stuffing. Keyword stuffing can negatively impact your search engine ranking.
Research Your Keywords
Before choosing a domain name, research the keywords that your target audience is using to find businesses like yours. Use keyword research tools to identify the most popular and relevant keywords in your industry. Google Keyword Planner is a free tool that can help you with this.
Use Keywords Strategically
Incorporate your keywords into your domain name in a way that sounds natural and relevant. Avoid using too many keywords or creating a domain name that is difficult to read. For example, "MelbourneBestPlumberServices.com.au" is too long and keyword-heavy. A better option might be "MelbournePlumbingPros.com.au".
Consider Long-Tail Keywords
Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases that people use when searching for information online. Using long-tail keywords in your domain name can help you attract a more targeted audience. For example, if you specialise in repairing a specific type of appliance, you could include that in your domain name. "MelbourneBoschDishwasherRepair.com.au" is an example of a long-tail keyword domain.
Checking for Availability and Trademarks
Once you have a list of potential domain names, you need to check if they are available and if they infringe on any existing trademarks. This is a crucial step in the domain name selection process.
Check Domain Name Availability
Use a domain name registrar to check the availability of your chosen domain names. Most registrars have a search tool that allows you to enter a domain name and see if it is available. Popular registrars in Australia include learn more about Johan, GoDaddy, and Namecheap.
Check for Trademarks
Before registering a domain name, it's important to check if it infringes on any existing trademarks. You can search the IP Australia trademark database to see if anyone has trademarked a similar name. Using a domain name that infringes on a trademark can lead to legal problems.
Consider Variations
If your preferred domain name is not available, consider variations of the name. Try adding a keyword, changing the order of the words, or using a different domain extension. For example, if "MelbourneBakery.com.au" is not available, you could try "MelbourneBakes.com.au" or "BestMelbourneBakery.com.au".
Considering Domain Extensions (.com.au, .net.au)
The domain extension is the part of the domain name that comes after the dot (.). The most common domain extension is .com, but there are many other options available, including country-specific extensions like .com.au and .net.au. Choosing the right domain extension is important for targeting your audience and establishing your online presence.
.com.au vs .com
For Australian businesses, the .com.au extension is generally the best choice. It signals to customers that you are an Australian business and helps you rank higher in local search results. The .com extension is more general and can be used for businesses that operate internationally. However, to register a .com.au domain, you must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN).
Other Domain Extensions
There are many other domain extensions available, such as .net, .org, .biz, and .info. These extensions are less common than .com and .com.au, but they can be useful for specific types of businesses. For example, .org is often used by non-profit organisations, while .net is often used by technology companies. Consider our services if you need help navigating the different domain extensions.
New Domain Extensions
In recent years, many new domain extensions have been introduced, such as .sydney, .melbourne, .shop, and .blog. These extensions can be a great way to create a more memorable and relevant domain name. However, they are not as widely recognised as .com and .com.au, so you may need to do more to promote your website. You can find frequently asked questions about these newer domain extensions online.
Protecting Your Brand with Multiple Domains
To protect your brand and prevent competitors from registering similar domain names, it's a good idea to register multiple domains. This includes registering variations of your domain name with different domain extensions.
Register Common Misspellings
Registering common misspellings of your domain name can prevent customers from accidentally landing on a competitor's website. For example, if your domain name is "Example.com.au", you could also register "Exmaple.com.au" and redirect it to your main website.
Register Different Domain Extensions
Registering your domain name with different domain extensions, such as .com, .net, and .org, can prevent competitors from registering those domains and using them to compete with you. This also gives you more control over your online brand presence.
Redirect Domains to Your Main Website
Once you have registered multiple domains, it's important to redirect them to your main website. This ensures that customers who type in the wrong domain name or use a different domain extension will still be able to find your website. This is a simple process that can be done through your domain name registrar.
Choosing the right domain name is a crucial step in building a successful online presence. By following these tips, you can select a domain name that is memorable, relevant, and easy to find online. Remember to brainstorm ideas, keep it short and simple, use relevant keywords, check for availability and trademarks, consider domain extensions, and protect your brand with multiple domains. Good luck!