I get this question a lot: What is the first thing I need to do to build my first website?

Here it is:

Choose a name, and register it.

But how do you choose a name? Here’s a secret. Whether or not you plan to drive traffic to your first website from search engines or affiliates or press releases or any other form, choose a name that hits the heart of what you are offering.

What does that mean?

Most people make the BIG mistake of trying to be clever with their names, and try creating a “brand” right from the start, like kaboom dot com. What is that? I have no idea, and I don’t have the time to find out.

The whole idea of branding is great, IF you’re a major corporation with an unlimited budget, because only then can you afford to educate the public (with LOTS of advertising) to put that name in the minds of your prospects.

You’re NOT a major corporation, so you need to hit your prospect quickly and not waste precious time. Be specific. Be clear and to the point.

Here’s a personal example: Toronto-Filmmaking dot com. Do you know where and what the website MUST be about? Sure do. It’s clear and specific.

So, think about what kind of business you’re in or would like to be in, and let the (domain) name indicate that idea. Here’s another quick personal example: Make My First Movie dot com. What do you think this website is about? It’s pretty clear, isn’t it!

Here’s an added bonus to having a clear domain name: It’s search engine friendly. By having your website name tie-in with a keyword that people would naturally search for your website, you’re already on top of the search engine game.

Okay, you have your name chosen, what’s next?

You need to officially register it. This is no different than having to register a business name, whether it’s a corporation, partnership or sole proprietorship. You are “doing business as” this new domain name.

I use GoDaddy.com to register my domain names. You will first have to search to see if your name is available or has already been taken. If it has been taken, try a variation of it, or look at their suggestions, if they’re helpful. It costs $8.95, as of this writing, for a single domain name registration. Don’t worry about getting ALL their crazy add-ons. Just keep clicking “No Thanks” and get to the end to register it.

You’ve just jumped over the first hurdle. You’ve got a website (domain) name registered that’s ALL yours!

Stay tuned for more steps in building your first website.

Andy

P.S. If you can’t wait to learn more, check out www.faster-webmaster.com.

P.P.S. I’d like to know if you have found this to be helpful. Feel free to Comment below…