Top Tips for Effective Domain Names

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Whether you are setting up a new business or are relaunching an existing business, you are going to need a website, and that means deciding on a domain name. There are many things to consider when deciding on a name, and it is important to get it right, because not only will it identify your brand but also determine how people find you.

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Using .com

The default for browsers is .com, so this is always the best option. Other options such as .co.uk, .org and .net are also popular, but if the .com is already taken, it may be worth considering either a different domain name or contacting the owner of the .com and asking if they would sell it to you.

Strong Name

Before you buy domain name options, chose one that represents your business and that is also easy to remember and spell. Businesses that have unusual names are not always that easy to find. If you want something truly original, there are businesses that can help you create a name, or you can visit companies such as https://www.names.co.uk/domain-names and see what is available.

Some names are so recognisable that people try to protect them at all costs. For example, Lewis Hamilton tried to stop Swedish watch-makers from using the name ‘Hamilton’ – a name they had been using since 1892.

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Length

Even if your name is easy to remember and spell, try not to use long names or punctuation such as underscores and hyphens, and avoid using numbers instead of words. As a guideline, a good URL should be 15 characters or fewer.

Keywords

Depending on what service you offer, try to use keywords when you buy domain name options. For example, a radio station should include the word ‘radio’.

Trademark

Before making your final decision, do an internet search to make sure your name isn’t going to be confused with other brands and that it isn’t trademarked. The last thing you want is to spend money developing and launching your name only to find out you can’t use it.

Plan Ahead

Finally, don’t give yourself a name that has a ‘shelf life’ unless you are only planning on using it for a limited period, such as using the year or a word that’s ‘in vogue’. Also consider whether you might expand your business and offer other products or services.

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