8 Great Examples of a Personal Domain Name in Action

Having a personal domain name can be a great resource. Whether or not you’ve bought a domain that is your actual name, there are a lot of different reasons to do so.

Even if you have a hard last name to spell (something like Guillebeau) you can use your personal domain name as a living, breathing business card or host your full-fledged blog and website on it. If you’re a creative professional, you could even use it as a digital portfolio.

After seeing some of the examples below, you may agree that using your FirstNameLastName.com or a variation to “brand yourself” with an online calling card should be at the top of your to-do list.

What is a personal domain name?

A personal domain name is more than just a web address; it’s your unique identifier in the vast online world. Think of it as your digital business card, a crucial element in establishing a professional online identity. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or just someone looking to create a personal website, a personal domain name allows you to craft a personalized and memorable web address that truly reflects who you are.

Imagine having a web address that showcases your name or brand, making it easy for people to find you online. This is the essence of personal branding. A personal domain registration can serve multiple purposes, from hosting your blog to creating a portfolio or even setting up a business website. It’s a platform for self-expression and creativity, allowing you to showcase your personality, expertise, and unique voice to the world.

Benefits of Having a Personal Domain Name

Having a personal domain name comes with a plethora of benefits that can significantly enhance your online presence. Here are some key advantages:

• Establishing Credibility and Professionalism: A personal domain name gives you a professional edge, making you appear more credible and trustworthy to potential clients and employers.
• Creating a Unique and Memorable Web Address: Your personal domain is a unique web address that stands out, making it easier for people to remember and find you online.
• Increasing Online Visibility and Search Engine Rankings: A well-chosen domain name can improve your search engine rankings, making it easier for people to discover your content instead of hoping they search for a relevant keyword to your content.
• Providing a Platform for Self-Expression and Creativity: Your personal domain is your canvas. Use it to express your ideas, showcase your work on a new website, and share your passions.
• Promoting Your Services, Products, or Ideas: Whether you’re selling products, offering services, or sharing ideas, a personal domain gives you a dedicated space to connect with your target audience.
• Appreciating in Value Over Time: A good domain name can become a valuable asset, appreciating in value as your online presence grows.

By securing a personal domain name, you create a strong online presence that helps you establish a personal connection with your audience. It’s an essential tool for differentiating yourself from competitors and building a recognizable brand. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or small business owner, personal domain names can be a worthwhile investment for your online identity.

Creating a Unique and Memorable Web Address

Finding the perfect domain is crucial for branding and establishing a strong online presence. A perfect domain should align with your brand, be memorable, and reflect creativity. When brainstorming options, consider how the domain name will resonate with your audience and support your overall branding strategy.

Here are some examples of personal domain names being put to good use:

1. Joshua Fields Millburn

Josh primarily writes on The Minimalists, but he also writes fiction and nonfiction books. He uses his full name domain as a living résumé to direct people to all the places he can be found online and to show anyone at a glance some of the press he has gotten. This site was designed by the talented Spyr Media.

2. Tara Gentile

Tara uses her full name domain as the complete “home” for all her work online, and her homepage does a lot of great things in just a small amount of space. Above the fold, you see:

1. A high-quality picture of her.
2. A big call to action.
3. Her “as seen in” sources

3. Seth Godin

Seth has one of the most popular blogs on the internet, and it is simply just a Typepad-hosted site. But, Seth’s calling card on the internet is SethGodin.com, where you can quickly see at a glance how many books he’s published, and “click on his head” to go to the blog.

4. Danielle Laporte

Danielle’s “White Hot Truth” blog is now fully branded around her name, exemplifying the importance of personal brands in building an online presence. She has injected herself fully into the brand and has everything all in one convenient full-name domain.

5. Joel Runyon

Joel has so many projects going on that this is the perfect example of why personal domains are essential for establishing an online identity and showcasing expertise. His primary blog, The Blog of Impossible Things, is hosted as a subsection of his full name domain.

6. Chris Guillebeau

When Chris started The Art of Non-Conformity, he hosted it at his full name domain, and he hasn’t turned back since. He hosts his blog there but has other projects on separate domains.

7. Laura Roeder

Laura has branded her business around her persona, especially through her heavy use of videos (in both her blog and in the courses she offers). The branding of her products are then separate brands in and of themselves.

8. Marie Forleo

Last, but certainly not least, is Marie Forleo. If we had to recommend just one example of how to inject your personality into your brand, Marie would be it.

Everything she does on her site and in her business includes high-quality media of herself (from the videos she creates to the rotating header images).

What if my domain name is already taken?

If you have a fairly common name, your full name might not be available as a .com domain name. What should you do if yours is taken?

Thankfully, there are some alternatives. Use the search bar to check the availability of your desired domain name and explore other options, such as:

• Use a different domain extension. Instead of .com, go for .net, .us, .info, or whatever else is available and makes sense.
• Add a middle initial. If JohnSmith.com isn’t free, maybe JohnZSmith.com is.
• Get creative. Matt Mullenweg uses the domain ma.tt, for example.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.