How to Choose the Perfect Domain Name for Your UK Business or Charity
Consider search engines, cost, and future marketing when picking the right url for you website.
When you’re starting a new small business or charity website, the first thing you’ll need to consider is your domain name – the url/address of the website itself. Choosing the right domain name is a critical decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly; should you use your business/charity name even if it doesn’t contain the vital keywords that explain what you do/offer. And, should you pick a .com or a .co.uk?
This post delves into the world of UK domain names, offering valuable insights and tips to help you select a name that perfectly captures your brand and resonates with your target audience.
Understanding UK Domain Extensions: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Choosing the right domain extension (i.e. the .com or .co.uk part), also known as a Top-Level Domain (TLD), is your first step. Here are some popular options for UK businesses and charities:
.co.uk: This established and trusted extension is a go-to for many businesses. It denotes a UK-based entity and conveys professionalism. UK visitors to the website are more likely to pick a .co.uk over a .com which are seen as more American or International – especially if they’re looking for a local business or charity.
.uk: This newer option offers a more modern and concise alternative to .co.uk. Just check there’s not a similar business trading on the .co.uk version before you pick this option, as you don’t want your potential customers going to a competitor!
.com: These are better for International or USA based organisations and are slightly more expensive per year than the .co.uk counterparts.
.org.uk: Ideal for charities and non-profit organizations, this extension signifies a focus on social good.
Regional options: For a more specific local focus, consider extensions like .wales or .cymru for businesses in Wales.
Fancy endings: There are a range of other extension options like .digital, .training, .marketing – these can be really cheap at first but go up considerably on renewal. And not all form field inputs for ‘website’ accept them so it’s good to have a standard fallback just in case.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, .co.uk and .org.uk remain strong choices for most UK businesses and charities, respectively. But if you have the budget, secure as many options as you can afford!
Building a Memorable Brand: Crafting Your Domain Name
Once you’ve chosen your domain extension, it’s time to focus on the actual domain name. Here are key elements to consider:
Keep it Short and Sweet: Aim for a name between 1-3 words. Shorter domains are easier to remember, type/spell, and pronounce.
Clarity is Key: Use clear, concise words that accurately reflect your business or charity’s purpose. Avoid jargon or overly technical terms.
Memorable Matters: Choose a name that’s easy to remember and rolls off the tongue. Consider using alliteration or rhyme for added impact.
SEO Savvy: While not the only factor, incorporating relevant keywords into your domain name can boost your search engine ranking.
Brand Consistency: Maintain consistency with your existing business or charity name across all platforms (like Social Media for example), including your domain.
Pro tip: Your domain name doesn’t have to be your business name, especially if your business name is super long or doesn’t say what you do (like The Smart Bear ha!) – it could just be what you do and the location you’re based at which actually helps when optimising the website for search engines, and future marketing.
Avoiding Pitfalls: Steering Clear of Common Mistakes
Choosing a domain name requires a bit of foresight to avoid future headaches. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:
Hyphens and Numbers: While not dealbreakers, hyphens and numbers can make your domain name less visually appealing and harder to remember. However, if you have 2 of the same letters next to each other then consider adding a hyphen – our brains don’t seem to cope well with double letters and they’re often missed out when typing (unless it’s vital for the spelling like the word Bookkeeping).
Trademark Trouble: Ensure your chosen domain name doesn’t infringe on any existing trademarks. Conduct a thorough trademark search before finalizing your selection.
Spelling Shenanigans: Avoid creative spellings that might lead to typos or confusion. People should be able to find your website effortlessly. However, if it’s a word that is commonly misspelled, consider buying the wrong spelling and redirect that domain to the right spelling guaranteeing they’ll still end up on your website!
The “Trend Trap”: Don’t get caught up in short-lived trends or overly generic names. Focus on a timeless choice that reflects your brand’s essence.
Pro tip: Ensure it reads ok all in lower case, and couldn’t be misread as different words. For example: childrenswear.co.uk should be read as Childrens Wear but could be read as Children Swear.
Tools and Resources: Finding Inspiration and Availability
Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Here are some resources to help:
Domain Name Generators: Websites like Name Mesh and Shopify Domain Name Generator offer suggestions based on keywords you provide.
Availability Checkers: Use a domain registrar’s website to check if your desired domain name is available and secure it before someone else does.
Brainstorming Buddies: Bounce ideas off trusted colleagues, friends, or potential customers to get valuable feedback on memorability and clarity.
Pro Tip: There are loads of different providers where you can buy a domain name – and they vary in price, service and offers so it’s worth shopping around! We often use our affiliate provider Namecheap.
It’s also worth buying your domain on the platform where you plan to build your website (WIX, Squarespace, Shopify etc) as it can make it easier to connect it up when you’re ready to publish.
Advanced Considerations for Businesses
Here are some additional factors businesses might consider when choosing their domain name:
Future Growth: Choose a domain name that can grow with your business. Avoid overly specific names that might limit your offerings in the future.
Call to Action (CTA): Consider incorporating a subtle CTA into your domain name, such as “ShopAt” or “GetHelpWith.” But don’t make it too long!
Make a Note: Once you’ve bought your domain, make a note of where you bought it and when it renews. You’d be surprised at how many people forget where they got their domain name from when they need to access it!
It’s a Business Asset: Domains are part of your business assets – they can be worth considerable money if they’re popular or in demand.
Free Domain Printable Download
Here’s a free domain planner printable to download which is an extract from my book; Website Planning from Concept to Launch.
This download will help you plan your domain, and keep a record of where you’ve bought it – it’s a totally free download, I don’t even ask for your email address, happy days!