In my recent quest to boost the optimization of CCBbuzz, I have run across lots of info that, while it makes sense, I never would have thought of on my own. Here is one such tip;

Register your website’s primary domain for 10 years or longer.

In the past, I have been of the mindset of registering my domain annually. I figured it was cheap and easy (since I’d get a reminder email prior to it’s expiration date) and the cost is so nominal (usually less than $10). It didn’t seem like a big deal.  However, here are three reasons to register for 10 years (or more, if you choose).

1. Google will take you seriously. This is the biggest reason. Think about how many fly-by-night, fraudulent and even genuine-but-floundering businesses there are on the web.  You have the opportunity to set your site apart from the rest, and let Google (and everyone else) know that you mean business. If you appear as a stable, permanent fixture on the Web, you’ll get better ranking by the search engines. One of my concerns has always been whether I think I’ll still want the same domain name, or business in 10 years. I’m sure it’s a concern for many, but you have to measure the risk verses the reward. If you spend $70 to register for 10 years, vs. $10 to register for only one, is the increased Google ranking worth the extra 60 bucks? If your business sticks around longer than a year, it is. You have to play the game like you’ll be in it for the long-haul. In Year 5 of your business, you’ll wish you’d had better Search Engine ranking all those years! Besides, if you do decide to give up your domain name before the end, there is a chance you’ll be able to sell it and recoup your potential losses, which are minimal to begin and decrease by $10 each year you use your domain. In my opinion, the risk is definitely worth the reward.

2. Keep costs low. Most domain companies will give you a price break if you register in ‘bulk’ (multiple years).  This will ultimately lower your business expenditures (even though upfront there is more expense). You also won’t have to worry about the cost of domains going up in future years, you’ll be locked in for at least the next 10.  I have always used GoDaddy to register my domains. As of this writing, their prices are as follows;

1 year -$9.99
2 years-$13.99
3 years-$20.99
5 years-$34.95
10 years-$69.90

3. One less thing to worry about. John is a big proponent of ‘automating’ things. I am a huge believer in ‘only touching something once’. Think about the time and aggravation it will save you by not having to think about your domain registration for 10 years. The less little stuff you have to worry about on a daily basis means more time to focus on what you do best, your business. Also, you don’t have to worry about losing your domain name should you forget to register it one year.

Registering your domain name for 10 years or longer is a smart business move. It saves you time and money, and is beneficial to setting your business apart from the masses on the Web, and gives you credibility and strength in the Search Engine rankings!

-Amy Stevens Adams of Cape Cod Branding