Why do you use or dont use your real name on warrior ?

[grumpyb]

I have read here in some threads some discussion on whether people should use their real names. My name is Peter but my wife calls me a grumpyb so I guess both names will get an answer.

But seriously for a moment what are the pros and cons of using your real name here and disclosing your correct loacation ?

[activetrader]

I think it depends on personal preferences and on what you are trying to achieve. I am from Europe and thus my name is hard to say for most people here in the US (where I live). I have had a nick name for a very long time because of that. I also have had multiple TV appearances on national channels like CNN and such and I don;t want my real name associated with my pen name.

[Jared Alberghini]

Well grumpy peter, the advantage of not using your real name on the Warrior Forum is that you never have to live up to, or take responsibility for anything you say. Good or bad.

That's why I use my real name. It keeps me honest.

- Jared

P.S. I like to know the real names of the people who I am doing business with. It keeps them honest as well.

EDIT:

However, I do acknowledge the importance of maintaining privacy and using a 'pen name' for certain things... you don't always want your competition to know exactly what you are doing

[Srikanth D]

I partly agree with activetrader. I am from India and people won't feel comfortable calling my name. These are not common names.
So I prefer using my goal as my name here. I want to win as a IM. Warrior helps me a lot. so iam heretowin..

[Jared Alberghini]

Originally Posted by heretowin

I partly agree with activetrader. I am from India and people won't feel comfortable calling my name. These are not common names.
So I prefer using my goal as my name here. I want to win as a IM. Warrior helps me a lot. so iam heretowin..

Here at the WF I would much prefer talking to you using your own name, even if it's 'not common', compared to a made-up username like 'heretowin'. That's just me...

[kazakhan]

I'm quite attached to my username so that's why i use it. Having been "pulled up" on this issue myself here i find it amusing that some people are just too lazy to check a users profile or see what is right in front of them

[Frank Ayres]

Originally Posted by Jared Alberghini

Well grumpy peter, the advantage of not using your real name on the Warrior Forum is that you never have to live up to, or take responsibility for anything you say. Good or bad.

That's why I use my real name. It keeps me honest.

- Jared

P.S. I like to know the real names of the people who I am doing business with. It keeps them honest as well.

EDIT:

However, I do acknowledge the importance of maintaining privacy and using a 'pen name' for certain things... you don't always want your competition to know exactly what you are doing

That is complete BS,
I don't use my name on here but it doesn't mean that i am intending on doing anything dishonest or not going to own up to things i say and do.
My name is in my profile if people want to see it so what difference does it make what i use in a forum.
It should be up to each individual what their preference is and not just follow the heard because they are told to

[deu12000]

I don't use my real name on forums because I've always gone by one username or another. If someone really wants to know who I am, they can just google my username and they can find out who I am, where I live and my phone number. It's not even about being anonymous (my information can easily be found), but about privacy.

For those that say they only buy from people that has a name attached, I'm going to have to call bull****. If you outsource, buy products from just about anywhere a lot of the time you're just working with a screen name and only find out the name after privately chatting or making payment (if at all).

[Diana Lane]

My real name is actually fluffysquirrel2007.

Seriously though, if somebody is using what looks like a real name and you're giving that any weight in a decision to do business with them, don't automatically assume that it's their real name.

[winebuddy]

I use the same "username" on multiple forums, video accounts, social sites, etc.

I have several businesses and it helps me keep them separate.

[RevenueRabbi]

Think about this.. Allen Says the owner of this forum, is anonymous.

so, do you do business with "pennames'?

[Dana_W]

When I first joined I still had a full time job and didn't want them to know I was doing IM on the side, because I was looking to figure out how to make IM my full time job (which I have).

So - although my full name is Dana Willhoit - I used Dana W and no picture of me. Back then there weren't photo avatars anyway, this was about 14 months ago, but I didn't put a pic on my profile until I quit my job.

If you plan to sell your own products, I think it really helps to have your name and picture on here, for added credibility.

[KathyK]

I'm with Dana, those of us who have "real" jobs are a bit more restricted.

Diana Lane had a good point too - I could tell you my real name is Jane Smith - how would you know otherwise?

[winebuddy]

Kathy - love that avitar!

[Kay King]

For a long time I used my offline nickname as my forum name (bkay).

I now use my middle and last name online but have a few pen names I use for various niches.

To me, someone trying sell products here (as in WSO or Classified sections) is wise to have their name listed at least in their profile. Some forum names clearly fit the niches the member works in.

Nothing wrong with using a forum name, a first name or nickname. The ones I dislike are the cutesy, ridiculous or silly names as they make me want to ask "what are you - 12?". Actually, that may be the case....

kay

[Lloyd Buchinski]

I do use a pen name in a couple of forums, but at least it is a
little more creative and imaginative than jfx274. (apologies if
someone is actually using that one). I have had a few times
when I wondered about a post someone with a name like that
made, went to the profile and found no site or identifiable
information at all.

And there was one thread in particular on the old wf where
someone nasty had done exactly that. He did wind up deleted.
I do have a slight initial bias to a regular name but if it is a
good post I don't care about that part at all. In fact once I am
on a thread I often don't even look at the name at all, or until
after I've read the post.

[Roger Mayne]

I use both my real name, and my business name. My business name is more "brandable", but I also sign most of my sales pages with my real name.

However, I do have a pen name too, that I am using for a particular niche.

[BrandonIM]

Hey there,

I realize I'm the new guy but here's my opinion anyway - so take that!

I used my real first name, but not my last name or picture. I utilize my first name to help people feel comfortable with me, as I'm new and I want to build up a good reputation here.

However, I never use my last name because...well, this is the internet. You've seen the movies, right?

There's my 1.5 cents...

Brandon

By the way, when do I graduate to being able to give people my 2c?

[ladyjane]

I, too, use a nickname here (the same nickname I use on several other forums), simply because you never know who you're dealing with online, and I'd prefer my full real name not be broadcast to people I don't know, who may use it for nefarious purposes.

However, the picture I use is a real, genuine picture of me. Plus, if anyone asks me what my name is, I'll be more than happy to give it to them (and, as many of you have already found out, it's Stephanie). And, if anyone is interested in doing business with me and wants to know my full name beforehand, it doesn't take much searching to find it. Just follow the links (the link in my signature takes you to one of my websites, where there are links to samples of my work online, including Associated Content and EzineArticles pieces I've written, which have my first and last name in the bylines).

Basically, I'm being guarded and cautious, but not completely anonymous. I don't openly broadcast my full, real name to the world, but I don't make it impossible to find it, either.

[derekwong28]

I use my real name here but false names in other forums. The main reason is that I do not buy or sell here, and that my business on the whole is vastly different from other WF warriors. Therefore, I do not need to take as much care to cover my tracks.

[Suthan M]

well, i use my username here as thatsb the standard username i use in forums and the likes. Keeps me anonymous on where i surf...

But of course, many know who i am, so it dont really matter..

[Platinum Matt]

I use a pen name because when I want to come out... I'm gonna come out big ooer.

[Suthan M]

Originally Posted by jimrpips

I never give out my real name in any public area of cyberspace. I've been dealing with people around the globe electronically since the 80's (go, ARPANET!) and I trust absolutely no one with my personal information in a public forum.

For all you know, I am a strapping, virile young hipster-on-the-go. I could also be a 65-year old housewife from Hackensack with 3 grandkids and lumbago. Whatever makes you comfortable.

I know you.. You're Bender.

[Mark Dulisse]

I think not putting your real name simply means your hiding something....lol.

From: Jack, I mean Bob, sometimes Bill. Just don't call me "Leroy"

[Scott Million]

Originally Posted by grumpyb

I have read here in some threads some discussion on whether people should use their real names. My name is Peter but my wife calls me a grumpyb so I guess both names will get an answer.

But seriously for a moment what are the pros and cons of using your real name here and disclosing your correct loacation ?

I choose to use my real name to show that I have nothing to hide, and for branding purposes. Regardless, many people think "Million" is a pen name

This is a personal preference and I in no way claim that it's "better" or "more effective" than if I were to use a random username. Just thought I'd share why I took the "real name" route

[dmhinman]

Grumpy, I think it brings a more personable impression using your real. My name is Duane Hinman and I go by dmhinman. No need to hide under a false name (my opinion) Thanks.

[Jagged]

Showing my real name under nickname solves the problem for me. I've been using this nickname for years.
It's associate with my business name. I have nothing to hide....But I do believe knowing the real name may add just a touch more credibility.

All contacts for me through my businesses or websites all have my real name: kenperry@.....

But since I am not here in the warrior to "conduct business"...only here to learn and discuss business...I really don't see a problem with nicknames...

Ken

[Matt Maiden]

I think there are other indicators as to having a good idea that someone is using their real name here or not.

As you get to know them from their posts you can start to see who the sincere folks are from the bullshi*ters.

You can see a bigger picture of the person by looking at thier own sites too. Sometimes the pictures and names they use here are about the same in thier business and on thier own blogs.

Not that there is anything wrong with being a bs type and joker but if you are always "on" then I have a more difficult time determining the difference when you make a product recomendation or any advice. I will automatically take everything into account.

It's easier for me to trust someone that I at least "think" is using their real name and person when they represent it to me than the fulltime joker.

Besides, some things just give themselves away like Jared Alberghini for example. I mean he has that look and he is the "Godson of The Godfather",

so why would he go with something as wimpy as Jared? c'mon, wouldn't Guido be better?

Matt

[Jonathan 2.0]

I respond to "Jonathan," "ZigZag," "Sex King," and "Oi You."

[lecturer]

Originally Posted by grumpyb

I have read here in some threads some discussion on whether people should use their real names. My name is Peter but my wife calls me a grumpyb so I guess both names will get an answer.

But seriously for a moment what are the pros and cons of using your real name here and disclosing your correct loacation ?

It doesnt really matter for some one using a nickname on forum, but the main thing is, Is he or she being sincere and honest.

[rlnorthcutt]

What an interesting question!

I don't have too many feelings one way or the other... but I will say that the closer I work with someone, the more comfortable I will be if I know who they are.

Granted, even meeting someone face to face can get you a fake name, but I do think people will be more honest and reliable (as they can be) if you actually know them.

Alot of studies show that its harder for people to scam or cheat someone that they are personally connected to (I said harder, not impossible!). Its part of our programming.

Ron

[Jim Hallmark]

Originally Posted by Dana_W

If you plan to sell your own products, I think it really helps to have your name and picture on here, for added credibility.

I agree Dana. Although I think everyone should choose for themselves what they are most comfortable with, I decided that for me it was best to use my real name. I want everyone to know upfront who I am to avoid any misperceptions.

[Jonathan 2.0]

I think that if you're in the Internet Marketing or Personal Development business and have a public image then it's a good idea to use your real name. That said even people like Joel Comm have a warrior screenname. I don't use my full name because I don't want my wife to see me flirting with Dana_W. That and I'm on the run from the FBI.

[Golelen]

I share some of the concerns mentioned above. I used a pen name for two reason.

1. I deal w/ identity theft in RL. I minimize everything personal because I have seen so many ways in which personal information, even just a name, can be abused or used to get additional information.

2. I work in a specialized field that is very small. I don't want any potential employers Googling me.

[avi_31337]

I use my own name....for the reason I love my name

[Chris Kent]

I don't use my real name because there are lots of nut jobs out there. For same reason I use a box address and not my real address and nearly all my domains are protected with whoisguard.

There are some marketers who have had people turn up at their door. People have even been killed over a disagreement in an internet forum.

It amazes me some marketers who publish their full name and address.

[Jonathan 2.0]

Well at least you look like a normal guy ProductCreator.

I use my real name and picture--because I want to be held fully accountable for everything I type.

I want people to know who agrees or disagrees with them...

If I'm being helpful or making an outrageous claim--I want everyone to know exactly who's behind the type.

I definitely don't do it for business purposes--because I'm not here for that!

The discussion is much more entertaining to me--than trying to use the forum to generate sales.

Marc

[Jonathan 2.0]

Good for you Mark. I can't be bothered being sensible. Even if I had my real name I'd probably still be 100% the opposite of sensible and unaccountable. I think MaskedMarketer's screen name is awesome. Seems like an awesome guy too. Yay. It's almost beer time.

Originally Posted by ZigZag

Good for you Mark. I can't be bothered being sensible. Even if I had my real name I'd probably still be 100% the opposite of sensible and unaccountable. I think MaskedMarketer's screen name is awesome. Seems like an awesome guy too. Yay. It's almost beer time.

I think that ZigZag and MaskedMarketer are awesome nicknames as well...

I don't have a problem with anonymity at all.

[Jonathan 2.0]

Originally Posted by marcanthony

I think that ZigZag and MaskedMarketer are awesome nicknames as well...

I don't have a problem with anonymity at all.

We've got to include Avi_31337 as well.

I think that if a person's ethical, truthworthy, and moral, they're ethical, trustworthy, and moral. Doesn't really matter what name they use.

[ShayRockhold]

When I first came here, I used the username I use in other forums - Shay60654.

But I found that:

1. That was hard for people to remember.
2. Someone commented that it sounded like a prisoner's number. LOL

I use a pen name for a couple of niches and my real name for others.

Here, I like to be myself.

[Cherilyn Woodhouse]

I use my real name because of branding... My real name is my business name. It's my branded name. Problem is, when I get married that's all going to change, so I may just keep my maiden name as a pen name and register my maiden name as a business name... Or I may just change everything to what will be my married name, and let everyone know.

Regardless, right now it makes my banking easier because no one is making cheques out to "cljazz86" or something... Plus people know me on here. In August I will have been here for 4 years - that's a long time to build a reputation.

- Cherilyn

[Mark Kaye]

I'm a radio host and in my business your name is everything. When people hear my name I need them to automatically connect with my radio station and format.

I think the same is true with marketing. Think about the books you buy. Do you buy them because of the title or the author? Me? I buy for the author because I recognize their product with one that I enjoy:

Seth Godin
Spencer Johnson
Robert Allen
Joel Osteen
Malcolm Gladwell

My two cents...

[Ldimilo]

I use my real name b/c it is easier to remember when I have to type in my username to log in...kind of takes the guess work out of things

[Kirk Ward]

I never use my real name. In fact, no one told me I was really Lycurgus Barnhill Ward until I was 16 years old! I continue to hide under the name Kirk Ward to this day.

Cheers

[BrizzyMum]

Good question.. I have started to use the same username across various forums and blogs to be consistent yet not have my real name due to wanting to keep a small amount of privacy. I'm more interested in trying to protect my children as much as possible. But i guess if someone really wanted to find and locate me it probably wouldn't be all that difficult.

[Tyson Faulkner]

Back when I first joined the warrior forum I made up a name as my user name. A short time later I decided to make a new account under my real name. I feel like I don't have anything to hide and would like people to get to know who I am.

I personally think it's hard to connect with someone when I don't even know their name.

I am here to build a business, and it is going to be centered around my name. I plan on having a lot of websites in the future and I want people to know who is behind them so if they've had a good experience with me they'll know they can trust me. And if they've had a bad experience, then it's up to me to make it up to them and fix the problem, instead of just making up a new name and moving on.

[Wakunahum]

When I joined, I didn't know others used their real names as user names.

But I figure I am not doing any business or selling anything, so people can choose to trust me or not. I don't even promote a site in my signature, so I hope people think I'm real.

Why would'nt I use my real name... I have nothing to hide, I am who I am. Personally I like to refer to people who they are it is soooo unprofessional to say "Hey You".

I want my products/services/websites associated with my name..

James