Listed below are some of the mistakes you try to avoid when acquiring a new domain name:
- Taking the domain/business name decision lightly
Don’t just buy the first domain that looks good. Many people do this only to seriously regret it later. Make sure you treat the domain/business name as a serious decision. - Thinking small instead of big
Starting out small doesn’t mean you will remain small. Cornering yourself into a niche or locale can limit your potential. Thinking big from the start can expand your world of opportunity. - Thinking “good enough” instead of best
You have the potential to lead your industry with your domain. A one-time cost provides ongoing marketing benefit for your business. - Not pursuing your ideal name if it is taken
Did you come up with an idea for a domain name only to find out someone registered it before you? Even if the domain is in use, the owner may still be interested in selling it for an affordable amount. - Not considering alternative options if your ideal name is taken
Don’t get discouraged if your ideal domain is unattainable. You may be surprised at other domains out there for you. You might find a better domain than your original choice! - Not researching potential trademark conflicts before buying the domain
Getting a domain name conflicting with a trademark can cause major issues. The domain can be taken away through a legal process called UDRP.
Additionally, you can also be sued and face massive damages! To check for trademarks in Australia, visit https://search.ipaustralia.gov.au/trademarks/search/quick
- Getting a domain that doesn’t match your business name, industry, product or service. There is an underlying mistake that can cause this mistake to happen: Naming your company before you check the domain for it. It is best to get the domain name BEFORE naming your business to avoid this. You business name and domain not matching up can cause confusion for visitors.
- Targeting weak keywords for SEO due to lack of keyword research
It can be nice to make it to #1 in the search engines. If it’s for a term no one looks up however, it’s worthless! Perform keyword research to find valuable terms before planning your SEO. - Using a domain/business name that is difficult to spell, type, or say aloud
Doing this can really hamper your ability to get word-of-mouth. A “difficult” name makes it hard to tell a friend about the site. A hard-to-spell domain allows traffic to be lost to typos and misspellings. Make sure to secure common typos and misspellings of any such difficult name.
- Not checking alternate/foreign meanings of your newfound domain/business name
Your brand name should convey a certain image of your business. Sometimes, alternate or foreign meanings of your name can conflict with that image. An innocent-looking made-up brand may mean “idiot” in another language. Knowing that may definitely change your opinion of it as a brand!
- Not getting catchy/memorable domains to use for special promotions
The mindset behind domains for promotions is different than for business names. The domains should be common or catchy phrases that stick in people’s minds. Getting something boring and/or without meaning can hurt a promotion. Getting unbiased opinions of the domain first can help you avoid this mistake. - Not getting a domain name or establishing an online presence at all
The internet has created massive successes for many offline businesses. Having a website on a quality domain showcases your business to the world. The biggest mistake you can make is ignoring the internet in today’s business realm.
Avoiding these mistakes is the key to getting a strong business name. You’ll seem more professional, elite and exciting to your potential clientele. It is worth the time, effort and money to make the right domain decisions. It improves the life of your business and you would never regret it.
Any queries or if we can help in acquiring a domain name for you, please do not hesitate to contact us.