When you build a new website for your company, the process involves choosing a domain name, creating a concept and design, developing content and finally launching the website. Typically, companies pay a lot of attention to the design and content, but don’t spend enough time choosing a good, brandable domain name.
A brandable domain name is very important for several reasons. You can’t rely on users to bookmark or write down the domain name, or be able to recall an obscure address like stratuscompanydesmoines.com. Often times, a domain name becomes the center piece for a brand, so you want it to be memorable and creative.
Websites like Godaddy.com and Namestation.com can help you in your quest to find that perfect brandable domain name.
Here are some tips to remember when choosing a domain name:
• Try to use a domain that includes the company or product name.
• Try to claim a “.com” address. It’s the most common ending for a website, and it’s what most people will try first. You should also purchase the variations like “.org” and “.net” and point them to your main site. You don’t want your competitors, or shady products and services, using your domain name brand. This could negatively affect your brand image.
• The shorter the name, the better. Eight characters or less is ideal. There’s a reason why some of the shortest domain names sell for thousands of dollars on domain auctions, they’re highly brandable and memorable.
• Stick to letters if possible.
• If you’re considering starting a company or launching a product in the future, register the domain name now. Don’t wait! It is a cheap investment and it will protect your brand.
• Avoid using hyphens, if at all possible. These domains are hard to use in audible mediums, like radio and television.
• Avoid challenging spellings and unfamiliar words. If your site is hard to find, customers will just move on.
The bottom line is that you should think about your target market, business, products and services, and choose a domain that will help drive traffic to your site and build your brand.