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6 Reasons Why NOT to Use Keywords in Your Domain
By Shalom Issenberg | July 17, 2008
Obviously there are advantages to having keywords in your domain:
- Relevancy in SERPs
- Clear explanation of brand focus to customers
- Immediate appearance of legitimacy and authority
Here are 6 reasons why not to go after keyword rich domains:
- Unless you bought the domain 10 years ago, it’s probably not possible to find a short keyword rich domain, and long domains are less practical.
- You can’t trademark a keyword - example locationrealestate.com - it’s great but impossible to trademark and can leave you open to a dispute later on.
- Keyword rich domains are usually very generic.
- If your site/business has multiple focuses your keyword focused domain name will be limiting.
- Most keywords are referred to in a variety of ways; therefore monopolizing one variation of the search term might not be your best advantage especially if you sacrifice branding potential for it.
- Most people in your vertical will probably be including the keyword, by not including it in your domain you may stand out even more in the SERPs or other listings.
Things you should look for in a domain:
- Short
- Memorable
- Easy to spell (really easy)
- Meaningful
- Relevant
- Relevant extension: .com. co.il, .ca, (depending on your target market).
Having your keyword of choice in the domain can be helpful but is not necessary so don’t get stuck on it.
Topics: Domains |