No Prize for A Silly Domain Name!

Sometimes you just have to shake your head. We've all seen them. Domain names that scream amateur and usually have sites to match! Selecting your domain name is one of THE most important marketing decisions you will make in your business. If your customers can't remember it or can't find it, then you have lost them before you begin.

Things to consider when selecting a domain name:

1. Simple is best. A complicated name, that is not memorable, will not draw you the traffic that you are desiring. Think like a customer. You may LOVE the name you have chosen but will they love it?

2. Think about search engines. If you select a subject that is very widely used, the chances of your site turning up on the first page of a search is very small. Pick a name that adequately sums up your business, without jeopardizing your chances of showing up in a search. If you are unsure, check out a few of your names by doing a search using them and see what comes up.

3. Don't try to be cute. What worked when you were a child is guaranteed to send adults scurrying! Rhymes are great but sometimes they just make you look childish and silly.

4. Image is everything! If you are wanting to draw families to your site you may want to avoid names that will bring up a string of pornographic sites when you search for the name. Girls names are particularly bad for this.

A domain name is like your business name. It needs to reflect the business that you are conducting and the style of the business. If you are struggling to come up with a relevant name, get some friends to help you out. After all, you want your business to be a success!

Learn more about this author, Hayley Solich.
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