What to Avoid When Choosing a Domain Name

Created on 28 September, 2024 | Domain Management | 26 views | 6 minutes read

Avoid pitfalls when choosing domain names like difficult spelling or fads. Learn essential tips for a successful, long-lasting d

Selecting the right domain name is crucial for your brand’s success online. Your domain name will often be the first impression you make on potential visitors, and it must represent your business effectively. While it might seem easy to come up with a domain, there are some common pitfalls to avoid. In this article, we’ll explore key factors that can harm your brand's credibility and make it difficult for users to find your site.

1. Avoid Difficult Spellings in Domain Names

Complicated Spellings Cause Confusion

Your domain name should be simple, easy to spell, and quick to recall. When users need to guess how to spell your domain name or pause to figure it out, you risk losing potential visitors. Complex spellings force users to put in extra effort, and most people won’t bother.

For example, domains with tricky or non-intuitive spellings like "ph" instead of "f" (such as "photographz.com") might result in users misspelling your website name. Always stick to conventional spellings unless your brand is so well-known that users won’t have trouble recognizing it.

Unnecessary Hyphens or Numbers Lead to Mistakes

Hyphens and numbers can seem like a good way to secure a domain name when the one you want is unavailable, but they often confuse visitors. People often forget to include hyphens or don’t know where they belong. Similarly, numbers can be tricky, as users may not know whether to type out the number or use the numeral.

For example, consider the difference between “best4you.com” and “bestforyou.com”. If someone only hears your domain verbally, they might type the wrong version into their browser.

2. Steer Clear of Domain Names Based on Slang or Fads

Trends Fade Quickly

What might seem catchy today could become obsolete tomorrow. Slang words and popular phrases are often tied to specific times and audiences, meaning they’ll eventually lose their relevance. For instance, using phrases like "lit" or "bae" in your domain name might seem cool today, but they could make your website feel outdated in a few years. Trends come and go, and your domain name should stand the test of time.

Slang Isn’t Universal

Additionally, slang terms can vary greatly between cultures and languages, potentially alienating a portion of your audience. While a domain with a catchy term may resonate with your local audience, it might confuse or repel users from other regions or those unfamiliar with the term. A domain name should be inclusive and accessible to a wide audience.

3. Don’t Overlook the Importance of Simplicity in Domain Names

Simple Names are Easy to Recall

The best domain names are short and memorable. It’s much easier for users to remember a name like "example.com" than something long and convoluted like "bestonlineexampleshopforcheapstuff.com". Short names are more likely to be typed correctly, which directly impacts your website's traffic.

Avoid Complicated Words and Phrases

Using long words or technical jargon can also confuse users. Keep in mind that a complicated or highly specific domain name could exclude potential customers who don’t understand the terminology. Simplicity in both length and language is key to retaining visitors and making your domain name stick.

4. Avoid Domain Names That Limit Future Growth

Think Long-Term, Not Short-Term

A common mistake is choosing a domain name that only reflects your current products or services, which limits your potential for future expansion. For instance, if you run a business that sells shoes and pick a domain name like “bestshoes.com”, you could face a challenge later if you decide to start selling handbags or accessories.

Instead, choose a domain name that can grow with your business, allowing you to pivot into new markets or expand your product range without needing to rebrand.

Overly Niche Names Restrict Flexibility

While it’s tempting to opt for a hyper-niche name, doing so could corner you into one area of expertise. If your business evolves, your domain name might no longer fit. A broader, more general domain name allows for greater flexibility while still being relevant to your brand’s identity.

5. Be Careful with Domain Extensions

".com" is Still King

While new domain extensions like .shop, .biz, and .guru may seem attractive and creative, .com remains the most trusted and recognized extension. According to research, around 53% of websites globally use .com domains because it’s the default choice for most internet users. If your business doesn’t have a .com option available, you risk losing visitors who automatically type .com when searching for your site.

Use Alternatives Only When Necessary

If the .com extension for your desired name is unavailable, consider well-established alternatives like .org (for non-profits) or .net (for tech companies). These are recognized and trusted more than newer extensions, which might be viewed with skepticism. Only use creative extensions if they make sense for your industry, like .tech for a tech company.

6. Avoid Copyright or Trademark Issues

Legal Issues Can Derail Your Efforts

Choosing a domain name that’s too similar to a trademarked brand could land you in legal trouble. Before finalizing your domain name, always check if it infringes on any existing trademarks. Copyright infringement lawsuits are not only costly but could also force you to change your domain name, erasing your hard-earned brand recognition.

Online tools, such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s database, can help you verify whether your domain is legally safe to use.

Copycat Names Damage Your Brand

Even if there’s no legal issue, having a domain name similar to a major competitor can harm your business. Customers may confuse your brand with others, leading to brand dilution and lost sales. Aim for originality to ensure your brand stands out.

7. Avoid Using Long Strings of Keywords

Keyword Stuffing is Outdated

While using keywords in your domain name was once a popular SEO strategy, keyword stuffing can now do more harm than good. Search engines have become smarter, and they no longer rank websites highly based solely on the presence of keywords in the domain. In fact, an overly optimized domain name may look spammy and unprofessional.

Instead of cramming your domain full of keywords, focus on brandability and making the name easy to remember.

Balance SEO and Branding

While SEO is important, it’s better to have a domain name that is catchy and meaningful to users than one that is purely keyword-focused. A branded domain can still rank well with strong content and proper SEO efforts, so find the right balance.

8. Be Mindful of International Audiences

Check for Negative Connotations in Other Languages

If you plan to attract an international audience, always research how your domain name might be perceived in different languages or cultures. A word that sounds perfectly fine in one language could have negative or inappropriate connotations in another. This could alienate a large portion of your potential audience.

For instance, a domain name with the word “mist” in it may work in English, but in German, “Mist” means manure. Always check the global implications of your chosen domain to avoid embarrassment.

Consider Global Search Engines

If your audience is international, you might want to consider buying country-specific domain extensions, like .co.uk for the UK or .ca for Canada. This can help with search engine visibility in specific countries. However, ensure the global message of your domain name aligns with your target market’s expectations and culture.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect domain name is both an art and a science. By avoiding pitfalls like difficult spellings, using slang, and basing names on short-term trends, you can set your brand up for long-term success. Remember that your domain name should be simple, memorable, and aligned with your business’s growth strategy. By following these guidelines, you’ll avoid common mistakes that could hurt your online presence and miss opportunities for attracting your target audience.

Updated on 14 October, 2024