How to choose a good domain name

A domain name is the name of a website that users type into their browsers when searching for a website on the internet. It consists of two main parts: the actual domain name plus the domain extension. Example: If the website name is example.com, “example” is the actual domain name and “.com” is the extension. The same name can be registered by one or more website owners, with different extensions, provided that trademarks or copyrights are not infringed.

Choosing a good domain name is crucial for boosting SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and making your website easily discoverable by search engines and internet users. Here are some tips to consider when selecting a domain name to enhance your SEO efforts:

1. Relevance to your content: It is beneficial if the domain name gives visitors and search engines a clearer idea of what your website is about.
2. Research your competitors’ domain names: Look at the domain names of your competitors to see what kinds of names are common in your industry. This can give you insights into what works well and what will help you stand out. 
3. Include keywords if possible: Incorporate keywords that internet users might use to search for the type of content, services or products you offer. By adding a keyword the domain name becomes more specific and considerably narrows the search field. Note: While specificity is good, be cautious of choosing a domain name that is too narrow and might limit your future growth or expansion.
4. Brandable and memorable: A domain name that is unique, brandable, and memorable will help users easily recall your domain name.
5. Avoid copyrighting issues: Ensure that your chosen domain name doesn’t infringe on trademarks or copyrights. This can lead to legal issues and potentially force you to change your domain later.
6. Avoid numbers and punctuation: Numbers and punctuation such as hyphens can be confusing when spoken aloud, or easily forgotten when typing a domain name. They can also be associated with spammy websites. Stick to letters where possible.
7. Location-specific targeting: If your website targets a specific geographic area, consider including the location in your domain name.
8. Keep it short and simple: A short and easy-to-remember domain name is more likely to be typed directly into the browser’s address bar or shared verbally. Avoid using complex words or lengthy phrases that could confuse internet users.
9. Choose the right extension: While extensions such as .com, .org, .net, etc., are the most common, other extensions like the country-specific “.co.za” or extensions that relate to your website’s content, such as “photography” or “blog” also work well.
10. Mobile-friendly consideration: With the use of mobile devices on the rise, consider how your domain name appears on smaller screens and whether it’s easily typed on a mobile keyboard.
11. Check the availability of the domain name: The domain name that you have chosen and/or the extension may already have been snapped up by a competitor. Ask your Weaverworx designer to check with a domain registrar whether the name and extension are still available for registration.
12. Check availability on social media: Check if the corresponding social media handle is available on the major social media platforms. Consistent branding across different platforms can be important. Ask your Weaverworx designer to assist you with this.