How do you choose the right domain name for your company?

One of the first steps in starting a new business is choosing the right domain name. This may seem like a simple task, but it's an important decision that can affect the success of your business. As a Dutch hosting company with years of experience and customers all over the world, we have seen many domain names. Here are our tips to help you determine the best domain name for your business!

Be unique and memorable

It's important that your domain name is unique and easy for your target audience to remember. Don't choose names that are complicated or difficult to spell, as this can put off potential customers. Clear names that pass the phone test are best. The phone test consists of briefly calling a friend or relative and seeing how many attempts and spellings it takes to get the domain name listed correctly. A good test for anyone who often gives up their domain name on the phone. For example, if it's a long domain name with numbers, hyphens and puns, it can take a lot of effort to decipher it.

Choose a suitable extension

The extension of your domain name, e.g. .nl, .com or .net, can also have an impact on your online presence. If you operate mainly in the Netherlands, the .nl extension is a sensible choice, as it inspires confidence among Dutch consumers. After all, they are most familiar with it and rightly assume that the website is then aimed at the Dutch target group. A .nl website makes the most sense if it is operated in Dutch, but it can also be operated in English. The reverse is true for a .com domain name.

If in doubt, you should register both extensions of your domain name so that you can link one to the other or switch between them later. Without running the risk that the .com or .nl domain name is already taken.

Is it still necessary to enter keywords?

In previous years, it was almost always necessary to include the necessary keywords in every domain name under which you wanted to be found. However, this has not been the case for some time and seems to be less and less important with the latest Google updates.

The domain name is still important and is still checked. But a keyword in the domain name will no longer be the deciding factor. The reason for this major change is that this was obviously being abused. Website owners were stuffing domain names with keywords en masse. Not only did this look cheap and dubious to users, but it was also abused by users to rank artificially high.

Avoid infringing on brands and existing businesses

Even though this is an open door, you should always check that the domain name you are considering does not infringe existing trademarks or trade names. This could lead to legal problems and damage your company's reputation. Not only with your customers or visitors, but also with parties and suppliers that you need for the survival of your business.

Even if you have no direct customers or suppliers, this can cause significant damage to affiliate programs and advertising partners. So this can be a final blow before you launch your business. So avoid this.

Think about future growth

You should choose a domain name that won't restrict you as your business grows and evolves. Make sure your domain name remains relevant when you launch new products or services. So don't limit yourself too much to 1 product or service, such as schaatseninbarneveld.nl, which you also want to turn into a field hockey field in the summer. So avoid this and also try to think a little further ahead so that you still have a suitable domain name in the future. That doesn't look strange.

Test and inquire

Before you make your final decision, you should test the domain name with friends, family and colleagues. Their feedback can be valuable and help you avoid pitfalls. A fresh outside perspective can help you avoid tunnel vision.

At MijnHostingPartner.nl, we can help you register your perfect domain name and set up your online presence. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the entire process and make sure you're ready to get online.

Need help choosing the right domain name or want more information about our services? Contact us today and we'll be happy to help!