Your domain name is your identity, and a lot like your company name, it’s one decision that requires a lot of thought and consideration.
As an essential element, it should not only fit your business; it should also be easily found and promoted.
So before we get into the steps on how to select and choose the perfect domain name – It’s important to mention that you’ll have to live with it for a long time.
Keep it short and simple
To avoid misspelling or mispronunciation keep it as short as possible. It is important to remember that your visitors are not all fluent or share your first language, so words that are easily rolled off the tongue is a big win.
A short domain is great for social media. It allows you to use the domain as is without having to use an URL shortener, so you’ll have enough characters left to get your message across.
The domain name should be easy to type
Rule of thumb when thinking about a domain name: avoid long-winded names, slang, and alternative spelling at all costs.
Your visitors should be able to type your domain without a problem, and if you have to explain the spelling more than once, then it’s too complicated.
Consider keywords
Including keywords in your domain name can help improve your rank on search engines. However, you should tread lightly – you don’t want to include awkward keywords into your domain name (remember step 1 and 2).
If you can use keywords, add them at the beginning of your domain, that’s where they’ll be the most powerful for search engine ranking.
Target your area
If you are a local business owner, consider including your city in your domain name. It will help with ranking and targeted location searches, and locals will easily remember it.
Research and avoid domain names that infringe other companies
It is important to remember that there are billions of websites, so to avoid both brand confusion and a lawsuit, do the necessary research and consult with a legal professional about trademarked domain names.
With these rules in mind – it is also important to remember that domain names fly and they cost a pretty penny, so you’ve got to move fast!
Most expensive South African domain names bought:
- Property.co.za – R4.33 million
- Homeloans.co.za – R3.09 million
- Insurance.co.za – R1.25 million
- Jobs.co.za – R1 million
- Finance.co.za – R871,000
- Fly.co.za – R809,000
- Porn.co.za – R561,000
- AutoInsurance.co.za – R455,000
- Furniture.co.za – R411,000
- HorseRacing.co.za – R250,000
