We’ve always found the most exciting part of starting a new idea or brand is when you sit down and search for the perfect domain for your website. Let us share some thoughts on what we think you should look for.
Something short
Our first piece of advice is to keep the name short. Users will have to remember your domain, so the fewer letters, the less they have to type. Ideally, try to keep it to one or two words; in our case we went with divinedesigns.co.uk
Easy to say
You’ll need to share your domain name with others. The website domain has to be really easy to remember, say and understand. If the user forgets the name, that can result in a loss of sale for you. Before buying a domain, share the name with friends and family and get their thoughts on it, say it out loud and try to type it yourself.
The right suffix
I bet you have used a website with a suffix (.dev, .group or .org). The suffix is a significant part of the domain as it often sets the subject before visiting a website. For example, if you see a .gov URL you immediately know you can trust it. Likewise, if you see a .co.uk URL you know that the business is targeting UK customers. We have a few pieces of advice for you:
- If you’re a non-profit organisation .org might be an excellent trust-building suffix.
- If you’re in the education sector .edu will be perfect for you
- Using a newer suffix (.dev, .group, .app or .jobs) will help you appear more modern.
- If you’re targeting a specific country use something like (.co.uk, .au or .jp)
- If you’re looking for a global audience .com is the perfect fix for you!
The subject
Think of a domain name that includes your chosen SEO keyword, this is very influential in ranking specific keywords. The more traditional approach is to use your brand name directly, as we have done for this site. There is no right and wrong here, it just depends on your business goals and what you want your website to do for you.
Avoid hyphens
A personal opinion is to avoid hyphens, they can create confusion. Keep it simple and be careful with the wording to avoid unwanted mishaps.
