Welcome to the world of affiliate marketing, where you have the task of choosing the best domain for your affiliate marketing business.
Selecting the perfect domain name for your affiliate marketing venture can often feel like a juggling act, where each element must harmoniously come together to achieve success.
Balancing creativity with clarity, you seek a name that encapsulates your brand’s identity while leaving a lasting impression on your target audience. During this performance, the balls in the air representing relevance, memorability, and search engine optimization.
To help you navigate this crucial process, I’m here to share some valuable insights that I had to learn the hard way.
What Is The Best Domain Name For An Affiliate Marketer ?
Honestly, I don’t know if there is truly a right or wrong here. You can go with a keyword branded domain name, a generic domain name, or an SEO focused domain name.
At the end of the day, it all depends on – your end goal.
Potential Domain Selection Tips
The decision between a generic domain name and keyword domain depends on several factors. Those factors would include your specific niche, branding strategy, and long term goals.
Below we will explore some advantages and consideration for each option.
SEO Focused and Keyword Domain Name:
Pros: According to several sources, a keyword rich domain includes relevant search terms for your specific niche, which can provide an SEO advantage. If SEO is a primary focus, and your targeting specific keywords with significant search volume, a keyword domain could give you an initial edge.
Cons: The drawbacks, that the several sources do not usually talk about. A keyword domain can be longer and less brandable than generic ones. The could potentially affect memorability and user experience. Also, if your niche evolves over time, a keyword specific domain might become limiting.
Additionally, beside attracting your audience, your goal is to get traffic from the search engines. So, this means you would also need to please the search engines. According to Google’s ranking system, they do consider your words in your domain name as one of the factors to determine if your content is relevant to a search.
However, they also have a system that ensure they do not give much credit to domain names designed to exactly match particular queries. In other words, Google system adjust itself so that those types of domains are not gaming the search engine. If you like to read more about Google’s ranking system, please read their guide.
Generic Domain Name:
Pros: A generic domain name is usually short, memorable, and brandable. This makes it versatile for various business opportunities, which is especially helpful when you are not sure about your niche. Either way, a generic domain name allows you to a build a brand around the domain without being restricted to a specific topic or product.
Cons: The drawback to a generic domain name is that since its not focused on a specific keyword, they may not have an immediate SEO advantage. It could take more effort to establish relevance in the search engine rankings. What I have found is that if you go with a generic domain name, it’s best to stick with the same topic until Google has determined what your content is about. This is done primarily through you content or topic on your website.
Potential Domain Checklist
When choosing your affiliate marketing domain name for your website, consider asking yourself the following questions. This can help you determine the best name for your specific needs and goals.
Ask yourself:
Keywords In The Website URL Do They Help Or Not?
Using keywords within your domain URL supposedly helps websites rank better. On the other hand, some experts say that having keywords in your domain might have an SEO benefit, but, it’s not guaranteed of high rankings.
According to Michigan Tech the number one drive of search engine rankings, would be to have great quality content. The point here is that, there’s no right or wrong way. Ultimately, you have decide what your end goal is.
When you choose a domain name that is solely based on keywords, it can indeed make your website blend in with others, which sometimes results in lose of brand uniqueness.
In addition to that, a domain name with keywords is supposed to immediately communicate with your website users. Therefore, if we were to follow experts advice your website visitors should kind of understand what your website is about way before they click and visit.
In fact, if you’re reading this article, what made you click on this article?
Please tell me below. I’m really curious because, my domain name can mean anything.
Shetriedthat.com is definitely a generic name and does not tell you what the website is about.
Furthermore, back in November of 2015 Hover wrote an article, stating that using keywords in the domain name can sometimes hurt your search rankings.
Either way, let’s not just take my word or their word for it.
We’ll need to dive deeper into some research so that you can decide what the best option is for your affiliate marketing domain name.
Moreover To Use Keywords Or Not To Use?
Here’s the big debate, should you use keywords in your domain name or not?
When I first started online, I was told that using keywords will help you rank within the search engines.
Plus, it can help people understand what you’re talking about on your website.
Later on in my journey, I was also told the complete opposite.
I’ve arrived at a self-conclusion, that using keywords in your domain name does not matter, as much as your content, your website speed, many other factors such as E-E-A-T.
In fact, there are so many steps that you need to do to rank within the search engines.
It doesn’t stop at the domain name.
The articles that you write will have keywords throughout the entire post- and those play a part as well.
I’ve been online for a while, and purchased many domains.
Therefore, I do understand why there’s so much confusion in the air.
Some people telling you to do this, while others are saying no it works this way.
So, I had to test it out myself.
I’ve tried both.
Using keywords in your domain name does receive some traffic but, I didn’t notice that it helped any better with ranking. As I mentioned earlier you can use keywords in your domain but, if your content is not meeting the search intent, then you will still have to work hard to get your website to rank.
From my experience it still felt like I was in the Google Sandbox for a while, even with keywords.
Then I’ve used absolutely no keywords in my domain name and it seemed like the no keywords domain name, received traffic a lot faster.
But, who knows these are all just theories at the end of the day.
Who Should Know Better Than Google Themselves?
You would think Google would know what works in their search engine and what doesn’t. However, they don’t even seem to give us a straight forward answer.
My final opinion and conclusion is that keywords don’t help with your WordPress website or search engine ranking any better than a domain that has no keywords.
At least not as much as people are trying to make you believe. It seems to me like Google likes domain names that are different than all the others. In fact, I have only 30 articles on this website, and completely stopped writing on teh blog for two years but, the website kept pulling in traffic.
So, using my educated guess it’s other SEO factors that will help you rank and maintain your rankings. I have never got hit with a Google algorithm update either.
Therefore, this tells me that utilizing keywords in your domain, might help your customers might understand what your blogging all about before they click on your affiliates website but, it doesn’t mean that you are guaranteed search engine rankings because, you have a keyword in your domain name.
Assuming, that you do use keywords in your domain name.
And the visitor doesn’t click – technically, the visitor is assuming that your business might be about sometime else.
Don’t let choosing a domain stall you.
To further back this theory up John Mueller from Google, said just because a website has a keyword in the domain name does not mean that it is more relevant.
Please relax your mind, and watch what he has to say.
Well, there you have it! Who knows better than Google themselves?
Does Having Keywords In The Domain Really Help With Ranking?
Well, you just heard Mr. Mueller view about top level domains with a keyword. But, here’s the question, “Will having keywords in a more simpler domain such as an affiliate marketer site help?
According to Neil Patel, and many other marketers “Yes” having keywords in the domain name will help you rank higher into the search engines.
However, if you noticed Neil Patel, domain itself is not a keyword based on his industry.
It is his name.
Also, take Apple, Ahrefs, SemRush, and so many others, that are big brands today, and they are not using a keyword.
In fact, you can’t tell exactly what they are about just by reading their brand name. I definitely didn’t think Ahrefs was going to be a keyword research tool.
The bottom line here is that, according to the Guru’s a good domain name for affiliate marketing, should use keywords, and this could be true.
On the other hand it could be just marketers following each other. Or they could be setting you up to blend in with the masses.
The truth is that we will never know until, we test it ourselves.
Either way, let’s see what the “BIG G” has to say about this.
Here is Googles answer 12 years ago.
Then let’s see what Bruce Clays has to say with his expertise.
Don’t Forget To Check The History Of The Domain
Did you know that this was even a thing?
Checking the history of a domain is very important.
It’s almost like purchasing a pre-owned home, where you have to make sure the DEED and TITLE are cleared.
Regardless of what domain name you choose, I would suggest you take the time and check the history of the URL that you’re thinking about building a site on.
When I purchased this domain, shetriedthat.com. I didn’t check anything.
In fact, as a beginner – who has never dealt with purchasing a domain, how would you know to check the history of a domain?
You won’t!
So that’s why I’m telling you now.
As they say learn from your mistakes.
More importantly, please learn from my mistakes.
Before, purchasing a domain name, check the history of it.
In the next few sentences I’m going to explain why and how.
After purchasing my domain, I checked the DA score of my brand new domain.
That’s when I discovered the domain name that I just purchased had one of the highest spam scores that I’ve ever seen.
How was that possible if it was brand new?
That’s because, the domain name was previously owned by another website owner.
Beware Domain Registrars Will Sell You A Bad Domain
Apparently, domain registrars will still sell you a domain name that has had a bad reputation.
At least that’s what the internet marketing world sees it as.
I personally think that should be illegal. But, who am I to say anything.
It’s the same way they do houses, check your DEEDs and or TITLES too.
Why in the world would a bad reputation domain still be sold if it’s considered useless?
So far the high spam score on this domain has not affected me but, only time will tell.
I later learned that you can check the reputation of a domain name before you purchase it.
The website that you need to use is called waybackmachine(dot)com.
If you use Way Back Machine it’ll allow you to see screenshots of the previous domain history.
According to WBM archives, shetreidthat.com domain didn’t have anything negative attached. So, I continued to build on the website.
So, the question is, can a high spam score make or break your brand new website?
Great question, I’m still trying to figure that one out myself.
Also, it’s important to dive a little deeper into the history of a domain name by checking a website called Mtxtoolbox.com.
This site will show you if your domain name is blacklisted.
Spam Score Update June 1, 2021:
Literally, right after I published this article, mysteriously my domain name shetriedthat.com spam score was dramatically reduced.
Why is that? I still have no clue.
The only assumption that I can come up with is the following:
- I have been posting on this website consistently.
- I’ve also been trying my best in writing high quality content.
- On top of that I have linked out to higher quality websites and internally linked the heck out of my blog.
The bottom line is, I did my best to get Google to trust my website. So far, so good. As of June 1, 2021, my spam score has went from 53% to 2%.
And I got to keep the 2 backlinks that came with the website, and earned a few more with only 21 articles at the time of this article.
Therefore, this proves that you can purchase a domain name and potentially improve the website as long as it was or has never linked to toxic material.
But, again remember this may not work out for everyone especially if you’re not up for a challenge because, I’ve read somewhere online that improving a domain name with a high spam score is considered risky by spam filters and search engines. It can be challenging and may require significant efforts.
When I did all the research that I could with this domain I never found any toxic material linked to this domain. So, I’m not sure what caused all the high spam score in the first place.
Update 04/04/2023:
The spam has drastically dropped from 53% to 1%.
Either way, I’ve narrowed down a few tips on – what I believe can help you in finding a good domain name. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide.
By the way, if you want some ideas of catchy affiliate marketing domains, there’s about 900 ideas over there.
The Domain Name Should Be Catchy & Memorable
If no one can remember your domain name, trust me your website will sound like crickets everyday because, no one will revisit it. Unless, you’re a really good affiliate that can create content using relevant keywords to your niche.
The idea behind having a catchy niche domain name, is not only for others to remember.
It’s also to encourage people from the search engine or social media to click on your website.
I’ve learned that the more catchy your website name is the more people click on it. It’s like a legitimate interest.
In addition to that the more catchy your website name is the more other bloggers will link to you.
Of course, your content plays a role as well.
Either way, I had to learn the hard way that no one wants to be associated with a horrible website name, even if you have written the best content on the internet.
Truth is, if a website name sounds Spammy, or just plain ole ridiculous not too many people will share the website name on their social media profiles.
Let alone link to it. It’s like even other bloggers are embarrassed to be attached to something like that.
Therefore, in my opinion, your audience must like the domain name as well.
Make It Short And Sweet
It’s tough finding a domain name that’s short – and sweet.
But, it’s still possible. Some of the best domain name for affiliate marketing is short. The shorter, the better. Society’s attention span is all ready reduced drastically, so they tend to remember short website names.
Not only short. They definitely remember catchy!
You can use websites like leandomainsearch.com, which can help you find short website names.
Additional Websites That Have Domain Name Generators
- Shopify Domain Generator
- NameBoy
- DomainWheel
- NameMesh
Don’t forget to check for the social media handles at BrandSnag.com.
Another awesome option to use when deciding on a great domain name is to use this wonderful website such as WebsitePlanet.com it allows you to find social media handles for Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
If you don’t feel comfortable sharing the domain name to the public or online, don’t choose that domain name as your website name.
Your Domain Name Represents You So Choose Wisely
Okay, maybe this should have been at the top of the list.
If you plan on keeping your domain name for years to come because your a more involved affiliate marketer, here are some suggestions that you can consider.
When choosing your domain name, keep in mind that your website name will follow you everywhere.
More specifically, when you apply to affiliate programs, they will ask for your domain name.
Furthermore, it’s not only a representation of your business but it also represents you as a person.
Instead, go back to the drawing board.
The domain name should make you feel so proud that you could share it with an employer, if asked to.
Or you could wear the brand or printed T-Shirts?
At the end of the day, you want to connect with your entire business, which includes the domain name.
In any event, John’s video brings me to the next tip.
Pick A Domain Name That Comes Without Restriction
If all else fails – pick a domain name that you can pivot with.
For example, if you purchase a domain name that you no longer like, and you want to change niches.
You’ll have to start all over completing two tasks.
- If you don’t like the domain name. The URL name has to be changed.
- If you want to change niches. You have to switch niche directions.
In other words, you will have to change both the domain name and niche, if you restrict your domain to certain keywords.
On the other hand, if you purchase a domain name that you like and it’s not keyword restricted with certain keywords.
You can always change the directions of the topic, later on down the road. All you have to do is change niches. Simply put, a generic domain name allows for a – pivot and change of directions.
Therefore, you’ll be able to change directions as long as you use a generic name but, if you use something like ketodiet.com.
As you can imagine, you’ll only be able to talk about the Keto Diet.
So, I’m not really sure how you would add high carb recipes.
Of course you can always do what you like but, if your audience is expecting all keto things, I’m sure they wouldn’t be happy with high carb recipes.
The bottom line here is, think about choosing a domain name that allows you to pivot, – just in case you need to later on in the future.
Remember even, John Muller from Google mentioned this in the video above.
Use A Thesaurus
Using a thesaurus encourages your creativity. It helps you explore different words and expression which can lead to unique phrases or more appropriate words to convey your intended meaning.
Would You Advertise The Name On Your Car?
Another tip that I follow is, would you be willing to advertise your domain name on a car magnet?
Would you wear a shirt with the domain name on it?
If so, you have a winner!
If the answer was no.
Please, go back to the drawing board before moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need A Domain Name For Affiliate Marketing?
Having a domain name for affiliate marketing is not mandatory. But, it’s highly recommended and can be beneficial for several reasons. Some of the advantages of having a domain name specifically for your affiliate marketing efforts would be:
- Professionalism
- Branding
- Customization
- SEO Benefits
- Flexibility
- Ownership and Control
- Marketing Purposes
Should You Use Your Name As Your Domain Name?
There could be several reasons why you would want to use your personal name as your website name.
Let’s consider safety first!
Keep in mind that if you use your first and last name as your domain name, the entire world has access to it.
These days, it’s easy to look up information by a person’s first and last name.
Therefore, if you’re in a situation where you do not want to be exposed for whatever reason.
Then I would not use your first and last name as your domain name. If you could care less, then by all means go for it.
Another reason, you might consider is using a domain name as your first and last name is if your in Real Estate.
Most of the time, Real Estate Agents, use their own name.
What Are The 5 Most Common Domain Extensions?
The most popular TLD is .com only because that’s what most customers are used to.
According to NameCheap, search engines pay no special attention to a .com over other TLDs.
After the .com then you’ll have the option of .net, .org .co, or .us.
Additional Tips For Choosing A Memorable Domain Name
Okay, so a good domain name should be easy to remember. What else makes it easy to remember? These are not concrete rules but, good tips to follow when choosing a memorable domain name.
- First try to keep the domain name under 15 characters or less.
- Second, please avoid using numbers or hyphens.
- Third, capital letters is the same as lower case letters.
- And finally, using a period is not allowed.
Above all having a shorter and memorable domain, increases your chances of visitors returning.
Final Thoughts Of Domain Names For Your Affiliate Marketing Websites
As we conclude our journey together, the realm of affiliate marketing domain names, it’s evident that the right domain name can make all the difference. By implementing some of the tips that we explored, you now have the knowledge to choose a domain name that not only reflects your brand essence but also captivates your target audience.
Remember, your domain name is not just a string of characters; it’s a digital asset that can help you shape your online identity. From building trust and credibility to optimizing for search engines, each can play a vital role in determining your online presence. Be creative, think about your long-term goals.
Let me know how did you choose your domain name? Do you have any more helpful tips to add to this post?
Leave a comment below and let’s hear what you got!
