5 Domain Name Tips for Entrepreneurs Trying To Name Their Startup

5 Domain Name Tips for Entrepreneurs Trying To Name Their Startup

1. Don't sweat the domain.  Figure out a name that works for your business, is not too abstract, and doesn't make everyone you mention it to scrunch their forehead and say "What?"
2. What's the domain doing now: If it goes straight to a parked page or it looks like it was designed back in '99, your brand name is probably safe and you have a much better chance at getting it in the future.  If there is someone using the domain and their website is unkept and they were not able to make a go of it, ask yourself why.  Just like a strip mall that has frequent turnover and a constant empty storefront, a domain name that failed in the past might be a good indicator that it is not the best name for your business.
3. Use a tag line for the domain.  String a few words together and you will start seeing more green checks on godaddy when searching for names.  So if you can't get the business name, go for the tag line.  If you business takes of and you can afford to buy the actual .com, awesome.  Use the tag line domain for your blog or just forward it on.  It won't be a waste of $10.  
4. Check the trademark then grab every social account name you can.  If you can get the twitter account name, facebook link, blogspot URL, and even a .net, .mobi, or .something else, you are ok for now and you have a leg up.  Gauge the seriousness of your startup before throwing a grand at a domain.  There are plenty of domains on the auction block that are up for grabs and most people are sitting on domains hoping for a windfall like color, but they would gladly take a few thousand bucks if you can make the offer before you get too big.  
5. Google It. This is an obvious one.  Probably the first thing you do when trying to come of with a good company or product name.  But go a step further and do a keyword search through adwords and find out what your company name would cost as a keyword with PPC ads.  If it is already highly sought after and the competition will cost you several bucks a click, you might have a good opportunity because people are looking for it, but make sure you budget for the traffic.