Expert Strategies for Avoiding Eight Common Domain Name Mistakes and Choosing a Memorable, Brand-Reflective, and Future-Proof Domain Name for Your Website.
When starting a website, choosing the right domain name is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Your domain name is essentially your online address, and it’s how people will find and remember your site. However, it’s not always easy to choose the perfect domain name. In fact, many people make common domain name mistakes that can negatively impact their website’s success. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common domain name mistakes and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Choosing a complex domain name One of the most common domain name mistakes is choosing a complex or difficult-to-spell domain name. When people are searching for your site or trying to remember your domain name, they need something that’s easy to type and easy to remember. If your domain name is too complex, people are more likely to make spelling errors or forget your site altogether.
To avoid this mistake, choose a domain name that’s easy to spell and easy to remember. Avoid using numbers, hyphens, or unusual spellings, as these can be confusing for people. Instead, choose a simple, memorable domain name that reflects your brand and the content of your website.
Mistake #2: Not checking for trademark infringement Before you register a domain name, it’s important to check for trademark infringement. If your domain name is too similar to an existing trademark, you could be sued for infringement. This can result in legal fees, fines, and even the loss of your domain name.
To evade this misstep, do a thorough search for existing trademarks before you register your domain name. Use the USPTO’s trademark database to search for existing trademarks that are similar to your domain name. If you find any potential conflicts, it’s best to choose a different domain name to avoid any legal issues.
Mistake #3: Choosing a domain name that’s too long Another common domain name mistake is choosing a domain name that’s too long. Long domain names can be difficult to remember and type, which can make it harder for people to find your site. Additionally, long domain names can look unprofessional and can make your site seem less trustworthy.
To prevent this issue, choose a domain name that’s short and easy to remember. Ideally, your domain name should be no more than 15 characters long. Additionally, try to choose a domain name that’s catchy and memorable, so people will be more likely to remember it.
Mistake #4: Choosing a domain name that’s too narrow Another mistake is choosing a domain name that’s too narrow or specific. If your domain name is too specific, you may limit your potential audience and make it harder for people to find your site. For example, if you choose a domain name like “bestdogfoodreviews.com,” you may only attract people who are searching for dog food reviews. However, if you choose a broader domain name like “petfoodreviews.com,” you’ll attract a wider audience of people who are interested in pet food.
To steer clear of this error, choose a domain name that’s broad enough to appeal to a wide audience. Additionally, try to choose a domain name that’s relevant to your website’s content and your brand, so people will know what to expect when they visit your site.
Mistake #5: Not registering multiple domain extensions When you register a domain name, it’s important to register multiple domain extensions. For example, if you register “mywebsite.com,” you should also register “mywebsite.net” and “mywebsite.org.” This can help protect your brand and ensure that people can find your site, even if they type in the wrong domain extension.
To circumvent this challenge, register multiple domain extensions when you register your domain name. Additionally, consider registering common misspellings of your domain name.
Mistake #6: Using numbers instead of words Another common mistake is using numbers instead of words in your domain name. For example, instead of “sevensistersbakery.com,” you might choose “7sistersbakery.com.” While using numbers can be a good way to make your domain name more memorable, it can also make it harder to remember and type. Additionally, using numbers can make your domain name seem less professional.
To avoid this mistake, try to use words instead of numbers in your domain name. However, if you do choose to use numbers, make sure they’re easy to remember and type. For example, “twinsistersbakery.com” might be a better choice than “2sistersbakery.com.”
Mistake #7: Choosing a domain name based solely on keywords Many people choose a domain name based solely on keywords, thinking that this will help their site rank higher in search engine results. While including keywords in your domain name can be helpful for SEO, it’s important to remember that your domain name is also a reflection of your brand.
To avert this blunder, choose a domain name that reflects your brand and the content of your website. While including keywords can be helpful, it shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when choosing a domain name.
Mistake #8: Not considering the future When choosing a domain name, it’s important to think about the future of your website and your brand. For example, if you choose a domain name that’s too narrow or specific, you may limit your future growth and make it harder to expand your brand.
To dodge this setback, choose a domain name that’s broad enough to accommodate future growth and expansion. Additionally, consider whether your domain name will still be relevant in 5 or 10 years, and whether it will still be memorable and easy to remember.
Choosing the right domain name is essential for the success of your website. By avoiding these common domain name mistakes, you can choose a domain name that’s memorable, easy to type, and reflective of your brand. Remember to choose a domain name that’s short, easy to spell, and broad enough to appeal to a wide audience. Additionally, register multiple domain extensions and consider the future of your brand when choosing your domain name. With a little research and careful consideration, you can choose the perfect domain name for your website and set yourself up for success.