Is a question that arises during nearly all new and current website developments, and it’s tricky to answer…
Google ranks your website on actual hosted content, purchasing domains to rank higher on this basis won’t make too much of a difference. This is the same for extensions such as .online .graphics .today .shop etc.
Here we run through 5 common reasons why businesses have more than one domain.
Spelling
Often a business will own additional domains to cover misspellings. For example, intacpc.co.uk may also own intakpc.co.uk and intackpc.co.uk.
Long business name
If your domain is jamesjonesprofessionalcarpetcleaners.co.uk it would be wise to also purchase jjcarpetcleaners.co.uk and jjcleaners.co.uk. Shortening the name can make it more memorable and easier to read on printed material.
Sound similar
If your business is very close to that of another, you may consider purchasing your closest similarity. It doesn’t always have to distinguish from the competition but could benefit from setting aside any confusion towards your business.
New name
If you’re launching a new site with a new name and you know you will be changing your business name in the future, it would be worthwhile purchasing that name in advance.
Protecting your brand
The variations of .co.uk .com. net .org can depend on your business size and location. If you’re based in the UK and are looking to market internationally, you may look to purchase your business name, with its relevant .extension within the overseas market places.
In addition
If Google identifies additional domains pointed towards a single website, it will interpret your website as multiple sites with duplicated content. Duplicated content is not good for SEO. Doing a 301 redirect to your main site, also known as forwarding is a far better way of using your additional domains to their maximum.
If you need any advice or help with purchasing a domain, feel free to get in touch with us!