Picking the right domain name for a SEO is pretty underrated. While most marketers focus on crafting compelling and engaging marketing assets, domain names often take the back seat. While it may not seem like a big deal, choosing the right domain name to establish a solid footing in today’s digital landscape can do wonders for your brand.  

With around 200 million active websites worldwide, there is no doubt that the competition is high. It could also mean the domain name you were eyeing is already taken. There is no reason to dampen your spirits as you can still choose a perfect domain name for your business.  

This blog shares valuable insights and useful tips to help you choose the best domain for SEO and branding.  

Without further ado, let’s dive right in.  

What is a Domain Name? 

Let’s touch base and understand what we mean by a domain name. A domain name is a virtual or digital address of a website that is linked to an IP address. In layman’s terms, it is the text entered in a browser’s address bar to access a website.  

For example, Amazon’s domain name is amazon.com 

How Domain Names Impact Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

One of the most frequently asked questions tied to domain names is whether they impact a website’s SEO. The answer? Yes and no. It is worth noting that a domain name may not have a direct impact on your site’s SEO. However, a few minor details like the domain name’s length, keyword usage, and more can play a key role in boosting traffic, increasing engagement, and making it more discoverable.  

It is crucial to understand that while domain names may not have a direct impact on a site’s SEO, they shouldn’t be sidelined. A domain name is a vital part of brand building and crafting a brand’s image and reputation. Remember these points while choosing a domain name for SEO and branding.  

While we have established that domain names do not impact a website’s SEO directly, here are a few points to remember.  

  • Keywords

Use relevant keywords in your domain name to ensure your audience understands what your brand is all about.  

  • Length

It is a good idea to keep your domain names short and memorable so that it is easier for users to remember. Keep it somewhere between 6 to 14 characters.  

  • Brand Name

Incorporate your brand’s name into your domain name for brand recognition. Almost all businesses use their brand’s name in their domain name.  

Building a Successful Brand With Your Domain Name 

We have already mentioned the importance of choosing the right domain name for your business and brand building ranks high up the list. It is also worth noting that your audience will find you using your domain name and even share it with others to help them find you online. So, it is best to ensure your domain name is brandable.  

Opting for a generic and common domain name does not help your brand establish its own identity. Furthermore, your domain may be seemed spammy or unprofessional if it does not contain your brand name. This is why you should always aim to use a brandable domain name that is easy to find.  

Striking a Balance Between SEO and Branding With Your Domain Name

While a domain name may be a small cog in your online marketing and branding machinery, it shouldn’t be overlooked. Additionally, it is important to find the sweet spot between SEO and branding while choosing the right domain name for your business. Should you focus on branding or SEO? How can you strike the perfect balance between these two key metrics while choosing a domain name? 

Read on to find out.  

  • Pick a Short, Crisp, and Memorable Domain Name 

It is easier to forget long and complicated names, isn’t it? So, why would things be any different when it comes to a brand’s domain name? Pick a short and crisp, yet memorable domain name that reflects your brand’s identity and highlights what your brand is all about.  

As mentioned earlier, pick a brandable domain name that includes your brand’s name to establish brand identity. While it isn’t unethical or mandatory, ensure that your domain name does not exceed 14 characters.  

  • Check Whether Your Domain Name is Available

With millions of active websites across the World Wide Web, there is a strong chance that your desired domain name is taken already. This is where you need to brainstorm and come up with a unique brandable domain name. We understand that this ordeal can get a bit overwhelming and time-consuming, so you can use our search tool to check the availability of your desired domain name.  

  • Use a Relevant Domain Extension

If you have used the internet for a while, you may know that .com is the most popular and extensively used domain extension worldwide. While it is encouraged to use the .com extension if it is available for your domain, you must consider looking at other options as well. The key is to use a domain extension that is relevant and represents your brand effectively.  

You can also explore some unconventional domain names including. cafe, .store, .shop, and more if they can reflect what your business is all about.  

  • Use Domain Name Generators

If hours of brainstorming and creative meetings have not helped in your quest to find a domain name for your business, consider using domain name generators. Some of the top domain name generators suggest engaging and best domain names for SEO that align with your brand’s identity and image.  

Typically, you need to enter the relevant keywords, or your brand name and the domain name generator offers suggestions accordingly.  

Picking an SEO-friendly Brandable Domain Name is Underrated

Choosing a domain name may not be high on your priority list, but it is a crucial step toward establishing your brand’s online identity. In fact, it lays a strong foundation for your brand in the online landscape as it is probably the first thing your audience will notice or come across while engaging with your business.  

In your pursuit of picking an SEO-friendly domain name for your business, ensure that it is brandable across the board.  

Use our domain name search tool to check the availability of your desired domain name. Good luck.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Does changing your domain name affect SEO?  

Yes, changing your domain name can impact SEO since Google and other search engines index all the pages based on existing domains.   

How do I choose a brandable domain name? 

You can choose a brandable domain name either by brainstorming with your creative team or using a domain name generator.  

Can I buy a domain with a brand name in it? 

Yes, you can buy a domain with a brand name in it as long as it is unique and does not infringe on the intellectual property of another business.  

Which domain is best for the future? 

While there isn’t a sure way to know which domain extension is best for the future, it is a good idea to use the .ai extension if you are operating in the tech space.