Keyword Rich Domain Names

Keywords in Domains Only Matter Sometimes

Some Search Engine Optimizers claim using keywords in domain names have an advantage over others.  The theory is Google has a “hole” in its search parameters, giving domains with rich-keywords more “juice”.

It’s a bold statement which may hold true.  For example, most are familiar with the online auction site EBAY.  I fully expected to see them #1 when searching for “online auction”.  However, I was surprised to see www.onlineauction(dot)com on top for this particular search.  

I’ve never even heard of this site, but it appears their keyword-rich domain gives them an edge….

I know a lot of you are saying, “Well maybe the latter site is doing a better job optimizing”.  C’mon folks, better then EBAY?

I decided to test this “keyword-rich domain” theory again.  This time I tried the keyword phrase “hair loss product reviews”, which has 1600 searches per month.  

After the first test I expected www.hairlossproductreviews(dot)net  to be #1 on Google.  But if you do the search, you’ll see www.hair-loss(dot)org in the top slot.  Both sites are well optimized, yet the former isn’t even on the first page of Google for a relatively easy phrase to rank.

My hypothesis:  There is credence Google gives “juice” to keyword rich domains.  However, it seems this is only when domains are created with three or less words (preferably two or less). I have tried this theory with multiple phrases, and though it’s not exact science, more often than not, it’s close.  Also, sites must have some sort of optimization for it to work.

My advice: Worry less about the domain name and concentrate on creating unique content.  Follow Google’s guidelines from day one, work hard and you’ll eventually climb to the top of SERPS.