Keywords In Domain Names (K.I.D.'s)
"Are having keywords in the domain name (URL) helpful in Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?"
Like almost everything in SEO, it depends on the way you look at it. It's really more of a question of promotion and duration of your commitment than about directly affecting SERPS (Search Engine Results Pages.) Recent tests show that Keywords In Domain have very little if any direct effect on your Google Rankings. "Then why do most of the top ten results for my keyword come up with KIDS?" For the same reason that you think it matters. Web designers feed off of trends and consistencies, even sometimes when they're outdated or wrong. Some webmasters feel that these keywords carry more weight in the Search Engines. I firmly believe they do but to a very small extent. It's easily noticed with weaker noncompetitive keyword terms. Whether you believe they help or not, the time spent remarking on the controversy is better spent working on what REALLY helps your rankings. But for those debating whether KIDS they help in marketing your site, we've answered this question.
"When registering a domain name, should I concentrate on Keywords or Branding?"
Go for both if you can. Ultimately, if you're looking at the long-term, Branding is much more important than having KIDS. You do not need KIDS to rank well in Google's Search Engine Result Pages (SERPS). But to make things a little clearer we've listed some Pros and Cons.
When to Get a Domain with Keywords in the URL:
• You're looking for a short-term website for immediate results , and/or are using Black Hat techniques to make a quick buck.
• You have a small budget and your ideas are not terribly unique or creative. If you're starting small and growing slow, you'll need every bit of help you can get. If you have a solid grasp on promotion and some unique quality content, you should start with your Brand instead.
• You're banking on the fact that many people use your domain keywords to create backlinks to you. This is a valid point, and should be considered. If you can use some of your keywords in your domain while still having a brand name, you've won the battle. Read More...
When to Get a Domain reflecting your BRAND


