What has been the most significant help you received from someone in your domain journey so far? I personally received a complimentary ticket to a domaining conference, which proved to be a life-changing event. During the conference, I had the opportunity to connect with renowned domain investors and join successful domaining groups. The knowledge and connections I gained from these experiences greatly improved my ability to navigate my own domain journey.
I wouldn't classify myself as a cybersquatter since I don't deliberately register domain names similar or identical to trademarks, except for brand names. Furthermore, I do not utilize these domains in any capacity and do not infringe on the rights of others.
If a domain name piques my interest and it's available, I'll register it. If it's available at a domain release auction, I'll try bargaining for it and winning the bid. Lastly, if a domain has lapsed, why shouldn't I obtain it if it's of interest? Would you walk past an unclaimed sum of money? I doubt it.
The ethics surrounding domain ownership can be a contentious topic. While some individuals intentionally register domains similar to trademarks, others simply register them if they are available or of interest. The latter is my personal stance. I will only register a domain that piques my interest and is not infringing on anyone's rights. Additionally, if a domain has lapsed and is abandoned, why not try to acquire it? It's similar to finding unclaimed money - you wouldn't just leave it there, would you?
Making money in domain name transactions either required registering quality domains 10 years ago or having a decade of experience as a domain expert.
I have witnessed many instances where vacated domains are purchased at auction for significantly inflated prices. While it is justifiable when bought by companies for website creation, individuals who intend to profit from reselling them often lose their investment quickly.
I've encountered numerous stories of people who blindly invested in domain names with little resale value. Renewing registration for 10,000 domains alone costs $100,000 annually - much like the stock exchange, only experienced players survive here. Unlike the stock exchange, there are no courses available for gaining knowledge of the domain market; experience is the sole teacher. While the domain market may seem closed off to beginners, there are exceptions.
The domain market can be an unforgiving place for inexperienced investors. While it's possible to make a profit from purchasing and selling domains, it requires either registering high-value domains years ago or possessing significant expertise. Novice investors may end up overpaying for domains at auctions or investing in domains with little resale potential. This market requires a great deal of experience to navigate successfully, with no formal education options available. However, there are still opportunities available for beginners willing to put in the time and effort.
The most significent help I received in my journey was from a mentor I met through an online forum. I had just started out, feeling overwhelmed by the vast amount of information available on design principles and coding. One day, I posted a question about typography in web design, and to my surprise, a seasoned designer reached out to me.
This designer not only answered my question, but offered to review my portfolio. I was thrilled yet nervous. When he took the time to give me constructive feedback, it was a real eye-opener. He pointed out aspects of my work that I didn't even realize were weak and suggested practical ways to improve them. Through this interaction, I learned the importance of attention to detail and user experience.
Moreover, he introduced me to his network of fellow designers, and I got some inviting into several collaborative projects. This was a significant turning point as I was able to gain real-world experience and build my skills further. I also received tips on how to present my work to clients, which has been invaluable.
This mentorship made me realise how important community is in this field. I started participating more actively in design forums, attending local meetups, and even enrolling in online courses to keep learning. The connections formed through these experiences not only expanded my knowledge, but also opened doors for future job opportunities.
Without that initial help, I don't believe I would be where I am today, working on diverse projects and building a career in web design. It taught me that asking for help and engaging with others in the industry can lead to unexpected but rewarding outcomes.