Picking a domain name can be agonizing. There is a lot of pressure to come up with the right name, and it can be harder and harder nowadays to find something that is even available.
Don’t spend a lot of time on this step, because it is MUCH more important to get a blog up and start creating content, then having the “perfect” domain name.
In a lot of ways it is more art than science. Domain names usually have to pass your “gut-check.”
There are three types of domain names for blogs that have proven to be successful over time.
Personal Name
Some bloggers have used their personal name to create a personal brand. This works especially well if you are going to start a lifestyle blog, or a topic that works best if your personal story or expertise creates a great celebrity effect.
Examples
PerezHilton.com, DrudgeReport.com, CupOfJo.com, CamilleStyles.com, NeilPatel.com
Brand Name
Some bloggers have decided to create a brand around their company or organization identity. This works well for collaborative efforts and people that want to make a name for themselves as a group.
Examples
TechCrunch.com, Gizmodo.com, Mashable.com, Lifehacker.com, Wired.com
Keyword-Rich Domain Name
Over the years, many bloggers have been able to create authoritative blogs around their chosen topic using their main focus search term, or a variation, as their brand name. This not only helps with getting ranked in Google for your topic, but also gives a cohesion to your blog.
Examples
BackyardChickens.com, ScubaDiving.com, ExpertPhotography.com, Recipe.com, HealthyFood.com
Final Selection
I always try to pick a domain name with a .COM suffix if possible. If none are available, then I will try for a .CO or .NET domain name. I try to leave .ORG alone because this domain suffix is really reserved for non-profit organizations, and I like to respect that.
I like to find domain names that Google will like for its search algorithm, while also easy enough that can be passed around with word-of-mouth or social media without being confusing.
I have what I call the “Coffee Shop Test” for domain names:
“Can you see two people who would be interested in your blog easily sharing the domain name across the table?”
If you can see those people easily sharing the domain name in a conversation or with their phone, then you passed the test.
For my new blog this year, I am using a Keyword-Rich Domain Name:
BackyardChickensHQ.com