How do businesses shine online? A thoughtful, well-designed website is essential, but your company’s success starts long before loading your content. It begins with a domain name.

Choosing a domain name is somewhat like naming a child. The name you select leaves a first and lasting impression on your potential clients.

You can follow countless paths on your journey to the perfect domain name. If you’re not sure where to start, here are six top tips to consider during your selection process:

1. Keep it easy to say, spell and remember.

Have you ever heard of the radio test? In order for your domain name to pass the radio test, listeners must be able to accurately recall and spell it after hearing it on the radio, over a podcast or through other word-of-mouth methods. Here’s an example: If your domain name contains a number, it probably won’t pass the radio test because listeners won’t know whether to spell out the number or simply type the digit.

2. Keep it short and sweet.

Most of our web surfing is done on cell phones these days. Short domain names are mobile-friendly, making it easier for potential clients to find your business no matter what they’re doing. A one-word domain name is ideal!

3. Incorporate keywords into your domain name.

If you use keywords in your domain name, you might rank higher in web searches. If you go this route, make sure that your domain name sounds natural and follows other good practices for domain name selection. You’ll also want to do a little research to ensure that the keywords you choose are relevant to your business.

4. Consider choosing a branded domain name.

Another option is to make your company’s name and domain name match. You’ll get bonus points if your company’s name, purpose and relevant keywords are all incorporated in your domain name. This advice strays a bit from the one-word domain suggested earlier, but you can still use this tip and keep your domain name short with a little creativity!

5. Connect your domain name, email address and social media handle.

Nobody wants to – or has the ability to – remember a separate email address and multiple social media accounts for the same business! If your email address and social media handles align with your domain name, it becomes easier for potential clients to connect with you.

6. Think about grabbing your own name if it’s available.

Depending on your goals, your own name might be the not-so-obvious choice for your company’s domain name. If your personal name doesn’t fit the bill at the moment, consider registering it anyway. That way, if you decide to focus on your accomplishments in the future, you’ll have a fitting domain name ready.

It’s time to maximize your online presence! Connect with DomainBroker, today to learn more about selecting an effective domain name to represent your business.

Contact us at (800) 683-9010 or email us here for more information.