Domain Name Extensions

Although the first part of your domain name has millions of possibilities, there are a finite number of extensions, or top level domains, from which to choose.

The most commonly used extension is .com, which is usually used for websites of a commercial nature. Most organizations or other non-profit ventures opt for the extension .org. Its use, however, is not restricted; many commercial sites also have the extension .org.

With the number of domain names registered now well into the millions, new extensions have been made available, such as .biz and .info. So, if YourChoice.com is already registered, YourChoice.biz or YourChoice.info might be your preferred alternative.

If you select one of the newer top level domains, such as .biz, market your site in such a way that people remember you, and not the .com version of your domain name.

Color attracts the eye. Use it to accent the extension of your domain name so that it gets attention. Another way is to promote your domain name extension in your promotional efforts. If your extension is .info, for example, emphasize the informational focus of your website or business.

As the newer top level domain names become more established, "dot com" will no longer be synonymous with e-commerce as it still is with so many people. Until then, especially, use every strategy to make your .biz or .info domain name remembered.

Nancy Richardson
CreateYourMarket.com publisher

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Quick Tips:

Enclose a business card promoting your website with each piece of outgoing mail.

Ask customers who frequently do business with you for a testimonial.

Promote your website URL offline on everything from bumper stickers to your answering machine message.

Want to reach the highest percentage of your target market?

Advertise in specialty publications including newspaper supplements devoted to a specific topic.

Marketing is crucial, but it doesn't always have to be serious.

Some of the most effective advertising campaigns rely on humor. Don't be afraid to make your customers laugh!

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