Choosing a domain name for your website is like naming your first pet. It’s a big decision, and once it’s done, you’re stuck with it (or at least your cat will be reluctant to respond to the new one!) A great domain name can make your business memorable, while a poorly chosen one can lead to confusion, or worse, outright hilarity.
Keep Your Domain Name Simple and Memorable
When it comes to domain names, less is more. You want something that’s easy to remember, easy to spell, and easy to type. Consider avoiding complex words or phrases, and think about how you’d share it verbally.
Would you need to repeat spelling it out? If the answer is yes, it’s likely not the best choice.
To Punctuate or Not to Punctuate?
You might be tempted to throw in a hyphen or two to make your domain name more readable, but think twice before you do. While punctuation can help clarify meaning, it often leads to cumbersome domain names that are hard to say out loud.
You may however, need the hyphen. Think about poor pen-island.com and experts-exchange.com – where a missed hyphen can suggest an entirely different service than the intended.
The Power of Top-Level Domains
Most people automatically think of .com or .co.uk when they consider a domain name, and with good reason. These are still the most recognised and trusted extensions for UK businesses. If you’re focused on a UK audience, .co.uk is a solid choice. If you’re aiming for an international presence, .com may be more appropriate.
However, don’t overlook some of the newer and more creative options. For example:
- .store – perfect for e-commerce businesses selling products online.
- .space – gaining popularity with community hubs and coworking spaces.
- .app – ideal for native, web apps and online digital services.
- .design – best suited for portfolios and creatives.
- .agency – best for larger agencies
These alternatives can help you stand out from the crowd and can be a great fallback if your first choice of .com or .co.uk is already taken.
What to Do If Your Desired Domain Is Taken
So, you’ve come up with the perfect domain name, only to find that someone else beat you to it. Don’t worry, you still have options.
- Try a Different Extension: As mentioned, if .com or .co.uk is unavailable, see if you can get a .store, .design, or another relevant extension to your business. There’s plenty newer options out there.
- Use a Modifier: If example.com is taken, consider adding a word like “shop”, “get”, or “hello”. For instance, exampleshop.co.uk (for an online store) or getexample.co.uk (for an online product or service) could still work for you.
- Make an Offer: If the domain is taken but not in use, the current owner may be willing to sell it. Be prepared to pay a premium, though.
- Check the Domain’s History: If you do manage to purchase a previously used domain, be sure to check its history. The last thing you want is a domain that’s been associated with spam, or worse.
Tip: When it comes to naming your business or deciding on a domain name, make sure you’re not vocal about it inside a coffee shop – someone else could be listening to purchase it before you do!
Domain Registrars to Check Availability
Before you get too attached to a domain name, it’s worth checking its availability. Here are some popular domain registrars where you can search and register your domain:
These registrars offer various options and often have promotions or deals on new domains, so it’s worth comparing prices and services.
Need Help with Your Website?
Choosing the right domain name is just the start. From WordPress website development to API integration, I can help with every aspect of getting your online presence right. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to enhance your existing site, I offer comprehensive web development services tailored to your needs.
Let’s make sure your website not only has the perfect domain name but also functions smoothly and looks fantastic. Get in touch today to see how I can help your business shine online!