Strategy #1: Optimize sites for SEO.
Select keyword rich domains. Develop a 5-10 page site at 250 words and build
links.
Strategy #2: Buy domains with
existing PR. Sometimes people are sitting on domains. Find one that fits your
business strategy.
Aftermarket sites: Bido.com,
Moniker, Snap Names, Grand Names, etc. Check trademark availability before
buying an expensive domain.
Strategy #3: Domains as an
investment. Investors are looking at domains for several reasons - a global
commodity. Not based in debt. Internet is only growing.
Strategy #4: Develop a business on a
domain. If you build it, they just wont come. Real value in domain is developing
into a business, unless it has huge type in traffic. Build content, links, and
functionality.
Strategy #5: Protect the domain by
owning variations and the extensions. Countries, spellings, misspellings, etc.
Strategy #6: Stay current. DN
Journal, ICANN, T.R.A.F.F.I.C, Domain Masters podcast on WebmasterRadio.fm.
Victor Pitts:
Why domains matter? Growing to 168
million worldwide. Aftermarket sales have been increasing by 20% year after
year. Even in down markets, they are increasing in value.
Domains are both collectibles, and
revenue producing. Unique - no two alike. Direct navigation traffic accounts
for 10-15% revenue in Yahoo and Google. It's your first impression online.
Primary way of locating your site. Tells customers what your business is about.
Helps define and reposition brand promises. Improve SEO and SMO.
Protect your brand, register typos
and other TLDs.
Case studies:
ToddlerToys.com = Fisher Price.
CreamCheese.com = Kraft.
Underwear.com = Calvin Klein.
All things going equal, your domain
name can be the tie breaker in SEO. Case Study: TropicalBirds.com is a new site
with less than 6 months uptime. Ranks above highly competitive sites.
Aftermarket domains offer additional
benefits - Age, PR, Links. Properly redirected, can give strength to other
domains.
Do your research. Check if they have
shady links. Can get you hurt.
Domain does have an impact on your
CTR in the SERPs. Expands your ad message.
