You’ve come up with the perfect domain name for your website. You’re excited, you’re ready, and then—boom—it’s taken.
Fear not! This happens all the time, especially if you’ve got a name that’s as popular as avocado toast. Your website URL doesn’t need to be your exact name. Or your business name. In fact, getting creative can make your domain name even more memorable and aligned with your brand.
Inspired by my friend and client Alexandra Watkins’ book “Hello, My Name is Awesome,” I’m dedicating this article to show you how to find a unique, catchy, and brand-perfect domain name for your business—even if your first choice is taken. Let’s dive in!
What to Do When the Domain Name You Want Isn’t Available
Don’t panic if someone else snatched up your firstnamelastname [dot] com domain name. Say your name is Jamie Parker and you are a transformational mindset coach. Here are 10 alternatives to firstnamelastname to consider:
- CoachJamie.com
- JamieInspires.com
- CoachParker.com
- ThriveWithJamie.com
- ClarityWithJamie.com
- JamieEmpowers.com
- CoachWithJP.com
- RiseWithJamie.com
- InspireWithJP.com
- GuidedByJamie.com
See the possibilities? Now let those possibilities soak in as you learn 9 brilliant tips from Alexandra Watkins to help you decide on ~ the perfect ~ domain name.
(BTW: I’m sharing these domain name examples in Title Case so you can clearly read them.)
Tip #1: Be Creative, Not Complicated
Your domain name should be creative but not overly complicated. A complex name can confuse potential clients and make it hard for them to find you online. Aim for simplicity and clarity. Think about names that are easy to spell, pronounce, and remember.
Example: Instead of “EmpowermentConsultingSolutions.com,” try “CoachWithClarity.com” or “InspireBright.com.”
Tip #2: Make it Memorable
Your domain name should stick in people’s minds. Watkins emphasizes the importance of creating a name that resonates and is easy to recall. A memorable name often includes a play on words, rhyme, or quirky twist.
Example: “InspireFire.com” is more memorable than “MotivationalSpeakerNetwork.com.”
Tip #3: Make It Brandable
A brandable name is unique and specific to your business. It should evoke a certain feeling or image associated with your brand. Avoid generic names that could apply to just about any business. (Tip: Use this list of 100 brand words to help you brainstorm possibilities.)
Example: “BoldVoices.com” feels more brandable and unique than “MotivationalSpeaker.com.”
Tip #4: Make It Shareable
If someone hears your domain name in a conversation or on a podcast interview, they should be able to type it into their browser correctly.
Example: “BrilliantCoach.com” is easier to share verbally than “BrillianceCoachingExpert.com.”
Tip #5: Keep It Short and Sweet
Shorter domain names are generally better. They are easier to type, less likely to be misspelled, and more memorable. Stick to 12 characters, if possible.
Example: “GlowCoach.com” is better than “InspirationalCoachingServices.com.”
Tip #6: Avoid Numbers and Hyphens
Numbers and hyphens can create confusion. Is it the number “5” or “five”? Is there a hyphen, or is it all one word? Stick to letters to keep things straightforward.
Example: “ThriveCoach.com” is better than “Thrive-Coach.com” or “ThriveCoach2Day.com.”
Tip #7: Check for Trademarks and Social Media Availability
Before you fall in love with a domain name, check for existing trademarks to avoid legal issues and see if the name is available on social media platforms.
Example: A quick search will help you determine if “VisionaryCoach.com” is available as a domain and on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Tip #8: Use Keywords Wisely
Incorporating relevant keywords can improve your search engine optimization (SEO), but avoid keyword stuffing. The name should still be brandable and not just a string of keywords.
Example: “ClaritySpeaker.com” uses keywords effectively while still being brandable and appealing.
Tip #9: Say It Out Loud
Once you have a shortlist, test the names. Say them out loud and get feedback from others. Sometimes a name that looks good on paper doesn’t sound as great when spoken. (Tip: This is an acceptable time to ask people to vote on your brand assets. However, you should NOT ask people for their opinion on your visual branding and here’s why.)
Example: Ask friends and family their opinion on “EmpowerYourVoice.com” versus “ShineBrightSpeaker.com.”
Bonus Tip
Pick up a copy of Alexandra’s book to learn even more brilliant tips for coming up with original names for your website domain, courses, lead magnets, and coaching programs.
It’s a big bummer when the domain name you want isn’t available. But it’s also an opportunity to get creative and have FUN with it! (Because branding, of all things, should be fun.)
