If you’re just starting to establish your online presence, you may come across a number of confusing technical terms. Even with loads of information available on the Internet, you may have trouble understanding what those terms mean. The problem is that tech experts, who write tutorials and guidelines, don’t bother to explain key notions, assuming their readers already know the basics.
When creating a domain name for your blog and website, remember that it’s a long-term commitment. You can do lots of changes to your business throughout the years, but your domain name will define your company for a long time. Your web address is a major brand identity element your clients and partners will associate you with. Realizing this adds responsibility and makes the choice even tougher.
Technically, changing your domain name is pretty easy, only it will take a huge toll on your branding. You’ll have to grow and promote your blog or website from scratch. If you already have an established website that drives consistent traffic, moving to another domain is the last thing you want to do. It will flush your SEO efforts down the drain. With that said, your task is to create a good URL address that will remain relevant and fit your business throughout the years. Sounds easier said than done, huh? When it comes to choosing a web address, there are no golden rules to follow, for better or worse. Here are some guidelines than you may find useful, though.
Use keywords. Your web address must include relevant words that capture the essence of your business and describe your products or services. By looking at your URL, your potential clients must be able to guess what they will find on your website before even opening it. For example, if you’re selling antiques or collecting works of art, you may consider launching your project on www.antiques.com or www.collectibles.com. A name created out of the blue may drive users away, resulting in a major traffic nosedive.
Create an easy-to-remember name. Your domain name must stick in your customers’ minds. If users have trouble remembering your web address, you risk losing lots of traffic. Also, with a memorable URL, people are more likely to refer it to their friends and colleagues.
Create a short name. Generally speaking; it's better that your domain name be no longer than 10 characters unless the domain name is all dictionary words . The shorter the name, the easier it is to remember . The problem is that concise URLs are no longer available. Still, you must steer clear of bulky domain names, e.g. thisisaverybaddomainname.com. When entering a long string of characters into the address bar, the user is more likely to make a mistake and end up on a random site or non-existing page.