My domain name, well that was obviously easy. Does it help me at all with the search engines. Definitely not. I am not the type to live solely on what a search engine says about me. I was programming computers and using the Internet long before any search engine was even invented. Search engines do serve a great purpose and generate alot of traffic for many sites.

It all comes down to what kind of business you are in. I could have used a different domain name like webdeveloperforhire.com or something like that; however, I am pretty sure that is already taken. =)

In today's information age it is almost impossible to create a domain name that will stick in people's head let alone be something that is talked about around the water cooler. People really don't have to remember your domain name anyhow. Most people probably find your site because you list your domain name in other print advertising or your domain name is on another site/search engine and they "clicked" through to your site.

If the first case is true, congratulations. I cannot tell you how many business make a website and then do not change any printed materials to promote the site. Then they wonder why no one is coming to their site. It is like waiting for your ship to come in when you haven't sent one out yet.

So how do you pick a good domain name. Start with the name of your business. If that is taken then try to get a little creative. Add some personalization to your domain name. Put some attitude in it. Try something like www.thelastwebmaster.com or www.thebestwebmaster.com something that explains what your company does or follows your companies philosophy.

UPDATE: Sometimes I am too creative for my own good. I checked the availability of thelastwebmaster.com and it actually was available. So I went ahead and purchased it because that may come in handy.

Yes try to use good keywords but don't expect to find a domain easily anymore. Another piece of advice. If you remotely think that a domain name would work and your are interested in it do not hesitate to just buy it. You can get domains now for the same price as a quad iced mocha at Starbucks. Too many times I have seen people come up with a good domain name and then wait even 2 weeks to find that someone has already purchased it. If the domain ends up not working just cancel it after the year is over. No harm no foul and you are only out a few dollars.

Give your url a lot of thought; however, don't expect that a catchy domain will be all that it takes. There is so much more to it. =)

Phillip