Should you use your real name in a blog?

157 replies
Im putting together my technology blog and wondering how I should put myself out there. If I should use my real name or a stage name.
I will be interviewing people on camera and I dont know if itd be awkward to use a stage name or if its best not to.

Im thinking of people like Pete Cashmore, Michael Arrington, Jeremy Schoemaker, Darren Rowse. I dont know if their names are real or stage name
#blog #real
  • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
    Banned
    Originally Posted by ecomguy View Post

    Im putting together my technology blog and wondering how I should put myself out there. If I should use my real name or a stage name.
    I will be interviewing people on camera and I dont know if itd be awkward to use a stage name or if its best not to.

    Im thinking of people like Pete Cashmore, Michael Arrington, Jeremy Schoemaker, Darren Rowse. I dont know if their names are real or stage name
    So whatever name you go with, how will others know if it is real or not??? Duh.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232168].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author discrat
      Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

      So whatever name you go with, how will others know if it is real or not??? Duh.
      Actually, Frank a lot of times you can go to Whois and found out that way. Unless you pay for privacy it is listed under the Website Owners name and is public record

      I have found a number of high visible peoples' real name that way


      - Robert Andrew
      Signature

      Nothing to see here including a Sig so just move on :)

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232892].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author webmarketer
        It's a way but not an absolute.

        You're still not certain of the identity of the person who posts on or manages the site. Of course, you can assume that the name on the registry is the one.

        But are you sure?


        Originally Posted by discrat View Post

        Actually, Frank a lot of times you can go to Whois and found out that way. Unless you pay for privacy it is listed under the Website Owners name and is public record

        I have found a number of high visible peoples' real name that way


        - Robert Andrew
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232899].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
        Banned
        Originally Posted by discrat View Post

        Actually, Frank a lot of times you can go to Whois and found out that way. Unless you pay for privacy it is listed under the Website Owners name and is public record

        I have found a number of high visible peoples' real name that way


        - Robert Andrew
        Not true. I have more than once used a pen name to register domains, including George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt. It's done all the time.

        I once used the name, Ima Turd - so please - rethink that idea. lol

        Cheers. - Frank
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233625].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author HN
        Banned
        Originally Posted by discrat View Post

        Actually, Frank a lot of times you can go to Whois and found out that way. Unless you pay for privacy it is listed under the Website Owners name and is public record

        I have found a number of high visible peoples' real name that way

        - Robert Andrew
        1. As Frank said, you can use Mickey Mouse as your name to register domains.
        2. There are registrars that don't charge for privacy.
        3. There are TLDs that don't allow privacy. Eg. dot.EU.

        Furthermore, by doing a little spy and detective work as well as hacking, you can find out a lot more about an "anonymous" person than you may suspect.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237374].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by HN View Post

          1. As Frank said, you can use Mickey Mouse as your name to register domains.
          I prefer the names of past presidents. They sound so upstanding. lol
          2. There are registrars that don't charge for privacy.
          They are the only type I will use.
          3. There are TLDs that don't allow privacy. Eg. dot.EU.
          Ones that I would never use.
          Furthermore, by doing a little spy and detective work as well as hacking, you can find out a lot more about an "anonymous" person than you may suspect.
          Not quite accurate. You can find information on the name they may be using, but as I have tried to get across through this entire thread, you have no way of knowing if you are gathering data on the actual person, or the 'name' that you are researching, which could have absolutely nothing to do with the individual using the name.

          See my point??? lol

          Cheers. - Frank

          P.S. I'm starting a pool on how long before some other dufuss posts, "Use your real name. It's better to be honest with your audience and it will be good for building your brand." :-)
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237391].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author HN
            Banned
            [DELETED]
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237431].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
              Banned
              Originally Posted by HN View Post

              I am not begging for trouble, but it's you who didn't quite get the point.
              By doing a little research you can find out that Yuliya Mironova is actually Tim Nagley. Of course, I have to agree with you, that you wouldn't know if Tim Nagley is a real name. So you do a little more research, until you find out who that person is, where he lives, what he looks like etc. Hire a few hackers and get access to his medical records, criminal records, etc.
              Get my point now?
              Yes, I get your point. I, too, am proficient in the ancient art of mental-masturbation.

              That, said, your best move would have been to bail at this precise point: "I have to agree with you." Anything beyond that point was superfluous jibber-jabber. lol

              Cheers. - Frank
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237444].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author HN
                Banned
                If you are afraid that people may find something that you don't want them to when they search for ...

                Your Name + scam
                Your Name + fraud
                Your Name + convicted
                Your Name + abuses disabled wife

                .. do not use your real name.

                Furthermore, do not use your real name name to sign up for Facebook, Paypal, don't pay with a credit card that has your real name on it and use your real IP when registering a domain, even when you get a private whois.
                Don't even use your real IP when managing your website. Don't pay with your credit card for private/anonymous proxy.

                Only access internet from free WIFI area and don't use the computer that you paid for with your credit card. While using free WIFI from your car make sure it hasn't got the real license plates, remove or change them. Or better yet, use a stolen car.
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237468].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                  Banned
                  Originally Posted by HN View Post

                  Furthermore, do not use your real name name to sign up for Facebook,
                  What's a Facebook?
                  Paypal,
                  I use my sister's account.
                  don't pay with a credit card that has your real name on it
                  Always use a prepaid debit card. You can use them for anything, as long as they are loaded.
                  and use your real IP
                  NetBarrier - can't live without it.
                  when registering a domain, even when you get a private whois.
                  Like I said - dead presidents, only. :-)
                  Don't even use your real IP when managing your website.
                  NetBarrier covers that, too.
                  Don't pay with your credit card for private/anonymous proxy.
                  Prepaid debit card or WaWa money order.
                  Only access internet from free WIFI area
                  WiFi? Are you nuts???
                  and don't use the computer that you paid for with your credit card.
                  Cash only, purchases, registered to PeeWee Herman.
                  While using free WIFI from your car make sure it hasn't got the real license plates.
                  Never use real plates and drive carefully.

                  This stuff isn't hard, once you get the hang of it.

                  Cheers. - P.T. Barnum
                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237490].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author kilgore
      Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

      So whatever name you go with, how will others know if it is real or not??? Duh.
      This past year my site's co-founder and I were invited by the US State Department to do a small speaking tour in Asia. We literally had to send copies of our passports, social security numbers and other identifying information to staff there and in Washington. I assume that we were also ran background checks on us -- and I know they also googled us prior to even contacting us. So in this case, at least a few others really would have known whether we were using our real names or not.

      What would the State Department's reaction have been if we had been using "stage names"? I'm really not sure. Would they have understood that we just wanted some measure of anonymity online? Possibly. Or would they have found it shady and thus decided not to risk their own credibility by flying two people halfway around the world who were afraid to use their own names? That's also possible. And would they have been comfortable with us continuing to use pseudonyms during our talks? I honestly don't know.

      Is this a special case? Surely. But there are other times when I've been glad we used our real names, whether it was when fostering business partnerships with other companies, meeting with suppliers or speaking to the media. In any of those cases would have using a stage name sunk our relationship before it started? Probably not. Though it's by no means certain. And I do know that it feels less awkward and more forthright when I'm speaking with people to not have to explain a pen name or to pretend to be someone else.

      All that said, the areas my business operates in aren't ones in which people use stage names. And there are certainly others where a "stage name" is common, if not expected. As many have pointed out actors often use "stage names" and my guess that's also the case for people in "Make Gobs of Money In No Time Without Working" niches. So if I were an actor instead of a social entrepreneur I doubt very much that the state department, the media or anyone else would have cared in the least if I had a stage name.

      Regardless, my point is:
      1. It's not only your audience/customers that you need to think about when deciding whether to use your real name. Others may need to know your name and it's not out of the realm of possibility that some might balk when they find out you're using a pseudonym.
      2. What's OK for one business in one niche may not be OK for another. Thus, I don't think it's accurate to say it's always OK to use a pseudonym -- just as I don't think it's accurate to say it's never OK to do so. As with almost everything in business, it really depends on the circumstances.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237545].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    If you're proud of the content, use your real name.

    It's a great insurance policy, too.

    If you're not proud of the content, what are you doing hitting "Publish"?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232179].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author HN
      Banned
      Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

      If you're proud of the content, use your real name.

      It's a great insurance policy, too.

      If you're not proud of the content, what are you doing hitting "Publish"?
      Do you use your real name? Weird stuff comes up when I google your name.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237366].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TangoDown
    Definately use your own name and start branding yourself as an authority or at least a person who is more and more recoginizable in IM.
    I admit I do have 2 situations where I have another name and persona ( a female in the health and fitness niche) Other then that I want people to know who I am.
    P.S. Most of those names you mentioned are those persons actual names and a couple are very well known in Internet Marketing
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232195].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author webmarketer
      You could always be transparent to your interviewees. Introduce yourself as you are and tell them you'll be using a pseudonym for this interview. It could actually help break the ice before the actual interview. They may, or may not, be interested why you have to use a stage name.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232209].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by TangoDown View Post

      P.S. Most of those names you mentioned are those persons actual names
      And you know this, how? Are you in the NSA?

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232250].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Mrnace
    I use my own name. gives the website a personal touch.

    But if your blog is about something that you don't want your name associated too, like adult sites, gambling etc then use an alias.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232202].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by Mrnace View Post

      I use my own name. gives the website a personal touch.
      Who, other than you and your family know that you are using your real name?

      Do you see how utterly ridiculous this thread is. lol

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232218].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author ecomguy
        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post


        Do you see how utterly ridiculous this thread is. lol
        Then why do you keep responding to it? And so salty too.
        It's a business thread about how to present yourself to your customers. I think that's a valid discussion on a business forum.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232310].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by ecomguy View Post

          Then why do you keep responding to it? And so salty too.
          It's a business thread about how to present yourself to your customers. I think that's a valid discussion on a business forum.
          Think it through. Try not to fry your brain. lol

          Cheers. - Frank

          P.S. I'll try this one more time: Who, other than you and your family know if you are using your real name, or not?
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232320].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author ecomguy
            Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

            Try not to fry your brain. lol
            I got great answers from the serious responses to this thread. I don't need to entertain the high school stuff. Peace out.
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232345].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
              Banned
              Originally Posted by ecomguy View Post

              I got great answers from the serious responses to this thread. I don't need to entertain the high school stuff. Peace out.
              Did you, now? Yet - you still can't answer my question. lol

              Last, try! Who, other than you and your family know if you are using your real name, or not?

              Since you can't answer it, I will answer it for you. NO ONE!!! :-)

              Cheers. - Frank
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232358].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author Boris Qs
                Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                Did you, now? Yet - you still can't answer my question. lol

                Last, try! Who, other than you and your family know if you are using your real name, or not?

                Since you can't answer it, I will answer it for you. NO ONE!!! :-)

                Cheers. - Frank

                Everywhere you go online you leave digital footprints. No matter how careful you are some people, readers of your blog for example, like to find things out. So yes others can find out you are using another name.

                Originally Posted by webmarketer

                Im putting together my technology blog and wondering how I should put myself out there. If I should use my real name or a stage name.
                I will be interviewing people on camera and I dont know if itd be awkward to use a stage name or if its best not to.

                I'm thinking of people like Pete Cashmore, Michael Arrington, Jeremy Schoemaker, Darren Rowse. I dont know if their names are real or stage name
                I am using another name on my blog but I am not hiding my real name either(On my about page I tell my readers who I am). As a matter of fact I wrote a post about this topic on my blog. whether using another name or not I think it all depends on the individual.
                Signature
                Learning and Growing as an Affiliate Marketer with My Secrete Tube Mechanic Notes
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235139].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author webmarketer
                  Hey Boris, check your attribution. I did not say that.

                  Originally Posted by Boris Qs View Post


                  Originally Posted by webmarketer
                  Im putting together my technology blog and wondering how I should put myself out there. If I should use my real name or a stage name.
                  I will be interviewing people on camera and I dont know if itd be awkward to use a stage name or if its best not to.

                  I'm thinking of people like Pete Cashmore, Michael Arrington, Jeremy Schoemaker, Darren Rowse. I dont know if their names are real or stage name,
                  Originally Posted by Boris Qs View Post

                  I am using another name on my blog but I am not hiding my real name either(On my about page I tell my readers who I am). As a matter of fact I wrote a post about this topic on my blog. whether using another name or not I think it all depends on the individual.
                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235600].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                  Banned
                  Originally Posted by Boris Qs View Post

                  Everywhere you go online you leave digital footprints. No matter how careful you are some people, readers of your blog for example, like to find things out. So yes others can find out you are using another name.
                  You can't give a single example of how that could happen. Not one. Another person that knows nothing but loves to hear himself talk.

                  If I'm wrong - prove it. You can't and you know it. So - why did you post???

                  Cheers. - Frank

                  P.S. Oh, right - signature links. I should have known. lol
                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235609].message }}
                  • Profile picture of the author Jill Carpenter
                    Well, have come to the conclusion that the majority here should use their real name.

                    Only because it will likely be the easiest for them to remember.


                    -Shmedly S.
                    Signature

                    "May I have ten thousand marbles, please?"

                    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235767].message }}
                    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                      Banned
                      Originally Posted by Jill Carpenter View Post

                      Only because it will likely be the easiest for them to remember. -Shmedly S.
                      I think you are being overly optimistic. lol

                      Cheers. - Frank
                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235769].message }}
                    • Profile picture of the author @tjr
                      Originally Posted by Jill Carpenter View Post

                      Only because it will likely be the easiest for them to remember.


                      -Shmedly S.
                      And the brandability. Remember, no one has ever made a brand out of a name that wasn't on their birth certificate.

                      /sarcasm
                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235779].message }}
                      • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                        Banned
                        Originally Posted by @tjr View Post

                        And the brandability. Remember, no one has ever made a brand out of a name that wasn't on their birth certificate.
                        Probably the most ridiculous comment on this thread. Please back-up your statement. We all need a good laugh. :-)

                        Cheers. - Frank
                        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235781].message }}
                        • Profile picture of the author @tjr
                          Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                          Probably the most ridiculous comment on this thread. Please back-up your statement. We all need a good laugh. :-)

                          Cheers. - Frank
                          There, it's fixed.
                          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235785].message }}
                          • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                            Banned
                            Originally Posted by @tjr View Post

                            There, it's fixed.
                            Did I miss the sarcasm, or did you add that in, after the fact? lol

                            Cheers. - Frank
                            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235810].message }}
                            • Profile picture of the author @tjr
                              Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                              Did I miss the sarcasm, or did you add that in, after the fact? lol

                              Cheers. - Frank
                              Added in after the fact, when it became apparent that the joke hadn't landed.
                              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235818].message }}
                              • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                                Banned
                                Originally Posted by @tjr View Post

                                Added in after the fact, when it became apparent that the joke hadn't landed.
                                It landed just fine - with a giant thud. :-)

                                Cheers. - Frank
                                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235823].message }}
                        • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
                          Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                          Probably the most ridiculous comment on this thread. Please back-up your statement. We all need a good laugh. :-)

                          Cheers. - Frank
                          Come on, Frank...

                          That's a direct quote from Betty Crocker.
                          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235793].message }}
                          • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                            Banned
                            Originally Posted by JohnMcCabe View Post

                            Come on, Frank...

                            That's a direct quote from Betty Crocker.
                            Not a real person, as I'm sure you know. :-)

                            Cheers. - Frank
                            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235798].message }}
                            • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
                              Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                              Not a real person, as I'm sure you know. :-)

                              Cheers. - Frank
                              You got my joke? Now I'm scared...
                              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235843].message }}
                  • Profile picture of the author Boris Qs
                    Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                    You can't give a single example of how that could happen. Not one. Another person that knows nothing but loves to hear himself talk.

                    If I'm wrong - prove it. You can't and you know it. So - why did you post???

                    Cheers. - Frank

                    P.S. Oh, right - signature links. I should have known. lol
                    You are right BigFrank or should I call you Frank Falcone it's about the signature Link LOL
                    Signature
                    Learning and Growing as an Affiliate Marketer with My Secrete Tube Mechanic Notes
                    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10236898].message }}
                    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                      Banned
                      Originally Posted by Boris Qs View Post

                      You are right BigFrank or should I call you Frank Falcone it's about the signature Link LOL
                      Actually, my real name is Alberto Liberato, but I adopted a pen name many years ago after being advised by many people that my name sounded too mafioso to be beneficial in business.

                      Cheers. - Frank
                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237307].message }}
                      • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                        Actually, my real name is Alberto Liberato,
                        Lol....great name. Theres a good book just in the name waiting for you to write.
                        Signature

                        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237663].message }}
                        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                          Banned
                          Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                          Lol....great name. Theres a good book just in the name waiting for you to write.
                          That depends on the length of my next prison sentence.

                          Cheers. - Frank
                          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237685].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author nocturnal911
    If you want trust and engagement to your blog, use your real name.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232272].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author expressg
    I always use my own name. If you're building a long term, reputable brand you definitely should. You would want your name and your brand to be almost synonymous.

    - Matt G.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232365].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
      To those insisting on using a "real" name - which movie would you rather see?

      The Longest Day, starring John Wayne,

      or

      The Longest Day, starring Marion Morrison?

      There are many reasons to take on a stage name.

      Who would be the bigger attraction, Triple H, the Cerebral Assassin, or Paul Laveque, the boss's son-in-law?

      The key is to be consistent, in both name and presentation. If you're doing on-camera work, you don't want to show up side by side in "Tech Talk with Joe Technerd" and "How to Pick Up Women with Big Poppa Playa" - it would totally blow your credibility in both markets.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232408].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author quadagon
    This is a question I come across from time to time when speaking with a new author.

    My advise is go with what's comfortable to you as already pointed out the vast majority won't know its a pen name anyway.

    There are one or two practical things I would look. Firstly google yourself and see what comes up.

    Is there anything unsavoury about yourself that might put people off?

    Is there someone with the same name as you involved in unsavory activities that you could be mistaken for?

    Is there someone in the same niche or market with the same name that you could be confused for?

    Do the same checks with your proposed pen name.

    Check what social media accounts and domains are available with your name and pen name choice.

    If you can get a pen name with a free .com social media profiles and no negative google feedback that's a positive in my eyes.

    Finally you might want to consider just changing your surname, this stops awkward moments in public if you are recognised but don't respond as someone is shouting out a different name to what you are used to.

    Eric (or is it?)
    Signature
    I've got 99 problems but a niche ain't one
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232394].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by quadagon View Post

      as already pointed out the vast majority won't know its a pen name anyway.
      Unfortunately, most are unable to grasp the concept. Combine that with people loving to hear themselves blather on incessantly and this thread will go on forever.

      If it wasn't so sad it would be funny,

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232660].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Randall Magwood
    I use my real name on my blog. Don't use your real name if:

    - someone's stalking you
    - you're running from the feds
    - you're a spammer
    - your info sucks
    - you just want people to find you on Google

    If you're trying to build a brand, and a life-long business... consider using your real name. If you want to remain anonymous, to keep family and friends out of your business... consider using a pen name.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232483].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author nickfortune777
    [DELETED]
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232539].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Gambino
      Originally Posted by nickfortune777 View Post

      consider using your real name. If you want to remain anonymous,
      Using your real name is a tremendous way to remain anonymous.

      This has to be the worst moderated forum on the Internet.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233864].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author hannahlist
    It doesn't really matter.

    Seriously.

    In fact, in certain niches, you NEED a pen name.

    It's common practice.

    What's important is you BUILD A SOLID BRAND.

    Without a brand, an awesome name is worthless.

    How do you build a solid brand?

    Offer SOLID VALUE
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232542].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author tiffanymika
    Always use your name with everything you do.

    You are the brand no matter what you do.

    When people google you... all the things you do online will come up.

    So let people get to know you, like you and trust you.

    Tiff
    Signature

    Tiffany Mika

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232684].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by tiffanymika View Post

      Always use your name with everything you do.

      You are the brand no matter what you do.

      When people google you... all the things you do online will come up.

      So let people get to know you, like you and trust you.

      Tiff
      Can you explain to us exactly how people will know if you are using your real name, or not?

      I didn't think so. lol

      Cheers. - Frank

      P,S. Is your name really Tiffany? How can I be sure. :-) Do you see my point???
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232693].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author looseink
    As a small town newspaper publisher I rarely give myself a 'byline' for content I contribute. However, in more than one blog site I operate I have opted to use my real name. This is why: I think if I am going to link my blog posts to say, my personal website, it just makes sense that there is a sense of credibility.

    I don't see it as anything to do with ego at all. As has been posted here already, if you are proud of the content, post your name. Using a pen name may be reason for some to wonder what you are hiding if your identity is not consistent between blog(s), websites and social media links.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232703].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author John Hocking
      I should be building a brand around yourself.

      You should your real name. It will also make it easier to integrate with your social media profiles.

      Nowadays it is very important that people know you and trust your content.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232736].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
        Banned
        Originally Posted by John Hocking View Post

        I should be building a brand around yourself.

        You should your real name. It will also make it easier to integrate with your social media profiles.

        Nowadays it is very important that people know you and trust your content.
        What is your real name?

        Cheers. - Frank
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232816].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author looseink
          What John said...lol
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232845].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
            Banned
            Originally Posted by looseink View Post

            What John said...lol
            John, who? There is no one here who's real name is John.

            Cheers. - Frank
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233638].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author Jill Carpenter
              Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

              John, who? There is no one here who's real name is John.

              Cheers. - Frank
              John might be my real name.

              Or maybe my name is Frank.

              PS: Not even sure this is a real picture of me.

              PPS: I'm with Frank. Doesn't matter what name you use.

              PPPS: Going to go change my name now on this forum to Shmedly Snigglefritz.
              Signature

              "May I have ten thousand marbles, please?"

              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233687].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author ViciBrown
                It is very important to choose the right name for your blog, as you can not change it later, because people will know and accept you with that name. That's why you should make right choice.
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233831].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                  Banned
                  Originally Posted by ViciBrown View Post

                  It is very important to choose the right name for your blog, as you can not change it later, because people will know and accept you with that name. That's why you should make right choice.
                  Thank you, Mr. Voice of Authority for another absurd stance on the issue. lol

                  Cheers. - Frank
                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233838].message }}
                  • Profile picture of the author Jill Carpenter
                    Originally Posted by ViciBrown View Post

                    It is very important to choose the right name for your blog, as you can not change it later, because people will know and accept you with that name. That's why you should make right choice.
                    What if I were using a pseudonym, and then told my readers I sold the business and now it belongs to a different pseudonym?

                    Or what if I just have another blog under another name?

                    There's always ways to reinvent yourself.

                    If I have a ghost writer creating all my content, do you think that my readers would know? Would they accept me or my ghost writer they don't even know about?
                    Signature

                    "May I have ten thousand marbles, please?"

                    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233848].message }}
                    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                      Banned
                      Originally Posted by Jill Carpenter View Post

                      What if I were using a pseudonym, and then told my readers I sold the business and now it belongs to a different pseudonym?

                      Or what if I just have another blog under another name?

                      There's always ways to reinvent yourself.

                      If I have a ghost writer creating all my content, do you think that my readers would know? Would they accept me or my ghost writer they don't even know about?
                      Tsk, tsk, tsk. If there's anything that won't fly around here, it's intelligence and common-sense.

                      I'm beginning to think that IM is for people that aren't smart enough to do anything else with their lives. If I had to judge but what I read in many threads on this forum, it would be very difficult to come to any other conclusion.

                      Thanks for your input, Shmedly.

                      Cheers. - Frank
                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233861].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                Banned
                Originally Posted by Jill Carpenter View Post

                PPPS: Going to go change my name now on this forum to Shmedly Snigglefritz.
                Be careful. Using your real name after all this time might cause you problems with the IRS. :-)

                Cheers. - Frank

                P.S. I know Shmedly Snigglefritz. You're no Shmedly Snigglefritz.
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233835].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author oppyeaunome
    I think that the best thing would be to go with your real name. This is something that I decided to do a long time ago and I think that it was the best thing that I could have done for my online career.

    You see the way that I see it is that people can find out your real name if they really wanted to and when they do I just think that it may look bad on your part. Another good reason is that when you use your real name people will begin to trust your more.

    When they do find out that you have been lying about who you are all of the time then they will begin to trust you less and this is something that can hurt your business.

    If you want to do business and be in it for the long term then I think that you should just go with you real name there is no harm in using it.

    Peace

    Tre

    P.S That is my real name lol
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232861].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author nmwf
    How about considering the consequences of NOT using your real name.

    Will you be able to juggle multiple usernames and logins at various social sites? And will you want to?
    Are you knowledgeable about how taxes play a role here? (think personal name, company name, and DBAs)
    Signature
    Write comprehensible articles on *any* topic in seconds with First Draft...
    First Draft's: Download | Add-Ons | Templates | Purchase | Support | Affiliates
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232867].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by nmwf View Post

      How about considering the consequences of NOT using your real name.

      Will you be able to juggle multiple usernames and logins at various social sites? And will you want to?
      Are you knowledgeable about how taxes play a role here? (think personal name, company name, and DBAs)
      Oh, please. That's ridiculous nonsense. Do you devote time to dreaming this crap up? Do you think before you post? Apparently not.

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233636].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author iris zhao
    In order to engagement to your blog, try your best to use your ture name .
    Signature

    Enjoy life, Enjoy free!

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10232887].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author vishwa
    I use my personal name in my tech blog and its helps people to know more about me and also more about my work.
    Signature
    Techbizmasters.com- Blogging, Technology, and Digital Marketing
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233360].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by vishwa View Post

      I use my personal name in my tech blog and its helps people to know more about me and also more about my work.
      They don't know it's your real name - so it means nothing. lol

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233626].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Elvis Michael
        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

        They don't know it's your real name - so it means nothing. lol

        Cheers. - Frank
        Lol, I have to agree with you, Frank.

        The main confusion in this thread is the way the question is worded. If the OP were to ask, "Should I simply call myself Staff as the byline? Perhaps some other generic name like Jdoe394?"

        In that case, then yeah, perhaps using a more memorable name would help you connect to people and be more brand-able.

        But as it stands, I fully agree with you because Michael Green (stage name) cannot be distinguished from Mike Dawson (real name). Both would have the same exact effect.

        Soooooo, everyone, focus on this question instead: Should he use a generic username like "Admin," or should he use a human name?

        Unless, of course, you're asking us whether to remain anonymous or not. In this case, only YOU know the answer. How shy are you?
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234494].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by Epic Passive Income View Post

          Unless, of course, you're asking us whether to remain anonymous or not. In this case, only YOU know the answer. How shy are you?
          Well, you've grasped the concept a bit better than most, but whether you use a real name or a pen name, which is one issue by itself, you are still going to remain anonymous as there are 7B people in the world. How many are going to visit anyone's blog?

          Believe me, most of us are going to die anonymously, regardless of the name we use and whether it's our real name or a made-up one. I know that the future Internet gazillionaires on this forum won't agree, but I can't do anything about their delusions. lol

          Cheers. - Frank
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234531].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Vince Mosweta
    Use your Real Name.!!! Dont even give it a second thought. Think of it as attraction marketing or rather personal branding. Add rather attract people to my real name than to a stage name. Its going to be effective for your own personal growth and your business!

    Always brand YOU!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233388].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ashuashwani
    I think you must use your real name on your blog and the name which represents you and your thoughts will create a mixture of great content and show your personality. It will represent you. I have seen many blogger who use their real names in their author bio's.

    So I suggest you to use your real name.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233389].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by ashuashwani View Post

      I think you must use your real name on your blog and the name which represents you and your thoughts will create a mixture of great content and show your personality. It will represent you. I have seen many blogger who use their real names in their author bio's.

      So I suggest you to use your real name.
      Do you use your real name? Prove it. You can't. So whatever name you choose to use - DOES NOT MATTER. Nobody cares. lol

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233633].message }}
  • {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233421].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by richrowley View Post

      Real name. Every time.
      What is your real name? Prove it. Are you going to show us your birth certificate? That can be Photoshop's to say anything.

      You folks simply refuse to admit that I am 100% correct about this. That's fine - but people are laughing at you. As well they should.

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233631].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author safrasolutions
    I use my personal name on my blog. I want to be able to market myself, create the brand of me!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233866].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by safrasolutions View Post

      I use my personal name on my blog. I want to be able to market myself, create the brand of me!
      Another person that just can't grasp the concept. lol You'll go far!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233880].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author phoebe2015
        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

        Another person that just can't grasp the concept. lol You'll go far!
        FRANK, i think you are trying to say that it doesn't matter if you use your real name or pen name is it?

        Here's my story...before I venture into IM, i had a 6am-6pm job. It's a job where personally, I didn't want the people I come into contact with to know that I'm dabbling in IM.

        As such, I used a pen name (MALE in fact as the successful IM people seem to be mostly males!). However, once I've picked my own niche and established my business (which I actually have not), I will want to use my own name, quit my day job and focus on my IM biz....

        It's just a personal preference....and so long as you are comfortable with it then proceed on...

        (I know of other great IM people who use pen names too.)
        Signature

        ~ Visit my blog as I document my IM journey ~

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234027].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by phoebe2015 View Post

          FRANK, i think you are trying to say that it doesn't matter if you use your real name or pen name is it?

          Here's my story...before I venture into IM, i had a 6am-6pm job. It's a job where personally, I didn't want the people I come into contact with to know that I'm dabbling in IM.

          As such, I used a pen name (MALE in fact as the successful IM people seem to be mostly males!). However, once I've picked my own niche and established my business (which I actually have not), I will want to use my own name, quit my day job and focus on my IM biz....

          It's just a personal preference....and so long as you are comfortable with it then proceed on...

          (I know of other great IM people who use pen names too.)
          You're still missing the point. NO ONE WILL KNOW IF YOU ARE USING YOUR REAL NAME - OR NOT!!!

          I loathe screaming, but posting in a normal tone of voice has become an exercise in futility.

          You either grasp the concept of what I am trying to communicate, or you don't. If you don't - there is nothing anyone can do for you. lol

          Cheers. Frank
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234046].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author agmccall
          Originally Posted by phoebe2015 View Post

          FRANK, i think you are trying to say that it doesn't matter if you use your real name or pen name is it?

          Here's my story...before I venture into IM, i had a 6am-6pm job. It's a job where personally, I didn't want the people I come into contact with to know that I'm dabbling in IM.

          As such, I used a pen name (MALE in fact as the successful IM people seem to be mostly males!). However, once I've picked my own niche and established my business (which I actually have not), I will want to use my own name, quit my day job and focus on my IM biz....

          It's just a personal preference....and so long as you are comfortable with it then proceed on...

          (I know of other great IM people who use pen names too.)
          But when you build a niche site about genital warts, uncontrollable diarrhea, or how to ease the pain of herpes, do you want your name plastered with it so all your friends and family can see?

          al
          Signature

          "Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." Thomas Edison

          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234047].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
            Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

            Not true. I have more than once used a pen name to register domains, including George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt. It's done all the time.

            I once used the name, Ima Turd - so please - rethink that idea. lol

            Cheers. - Frank
            Is Burt Reynolds any less an actor if he appears on Jeopardy as Turd Ferguson?
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234471].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author pamevolta
        I use my real name on my blog. Additionally I have extended real information about me on the "About me" page.

        As most of the people here mentioned:

        it's a good way to brand yourself and connect the content you create to you.

        Your audience will also feel much more connected to you and it will add a personal touch to your blog.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234577].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by pamevolta View Post

          I use my real name on my blog. Additionally I have extended real information about me on the "About me" page.

          As most of the people here mentioned:

          it's a good way to brand yourself and connect the content you create to you.

          Your audience will also feel much more connected to you and it will add a personal touch to your blog.
          This is called the 'nail in the coffin' post. Bye! lol

          Cheers. - Frank
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234581].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author MianMMajid
        Using your name in your blog has no issue regarding SEO point of view. You can even use your name as anchor text to elaborate the things related to you that will help more to explain yourself. Be Great...
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234742].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author onsmith
        BigFrank,

        You seem to feel very strongly that it doesn't matter what name you use, to the point that you're insulting people who think it does matter. This is not coming off as very intelligent on your part, whether you're actually correct or not.

        And I think if I used the pen name "Mickey Mouse" (or "The Rich Jerk", to make it more relevant) on my blog, people wouldn't have to look on WHOIS to tell that it's not my real name.

        My point is that there is something here worth discussing, and to say that the entire conversation is worthless is dismissive and close-minded.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237213].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by onsmith View Post

          BigFrank,

          You seem to feel very strongly that it doesn't matter what name you use,
          Yeah, I always care very strongly about hard facts. I'm funny, that way. lol
          to the point that you're insulting people who think it does matter.
          So - are you determining for others that they are insulted? Last I checked, you are the only person who mentioned the word.
          This is not coming off as very intelligent on your part, whether you're actually correct or not.
          Well, it's a well known fact that I'm one head-bump away from being classified as a potted plant, so you can feel whatever you choose about my intelligence level.
          And I think if I used the pen name "Mickey Mouse" (or "The Rich Jerk"
          Who's displaying a lack of intelligence, now. If you offer up moronic positions, what does that make you? :-)
          to make it more relevant) on my blog, people wouldn't have to look on WHOIS to tell that it's not my real name.
          Are you one of those individuals that is so stupid that you believe that everyone puts their real name on their WHOIS data? Did you actually read the entire thread or just my brilliant posts?
          My point is that there is something here worth discussing,
          In your estimation, which is beyond meaningless to me as I don't particularly give a hairy rat's-ass, what you say, think, feel or believe. If you can explain why I should, I'm all ears.
          and to say that the entire conversation is worthless is dismissive and close-minded.
          Judgmental, much??? lol

          I maintain my basic premise. Whether you choose to use your real name or not, no one is ever going to know if you are using your real name or not. You can't argue the point - so you'll challenge my way of communicating, instead. That's so intellectually weak that it doesn't warrant a response, but I was in a magnanimous mood, so I thought I would bless you by paying a wee bit of attention to you, since apparently you desperately crave the attention by arguing just for argument's sake.

          Someone paid some attention to you. Your reason for living has been met. Enjoy your day.

          Cheers. - Alberto
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237355].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author quadagon
    Heres an experiment. Which paragraph is better?

    The persuasive pull of potential is on the surface an oxymorinic concept. Surely people will want the guarantee of a definite over the potential earning that may come at a future date.

    Tony Robson
    Or

    The persuasive pull of potential is on the surface an oxymorinic concept. Surely people will want the guarantee of a definite over the potential earning that may come at a future date.

    Boris C Mowbray

    OK let's try some real world examples:

    Is 1984 any less of a masterpiece because it was authored by Eroic Arthur Blair?

    Is Spiderman less of an icon because he was invented by Stanley Martin Lieber?

    Is Eldrick Tont Woods a bad golfer?


    The man sometimes called Eric
    Signature
    I've got 99 problems but a niche ain't one
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233929].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by quadagon View Post

      Is Eldrick Tont Woods a bad golfer?
      Actually, yes. :-) By any name he chooses.

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233938].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author webmarketer
        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

        Actually, yes. :-) By any name he chooses.

        Cheers. - Frank

        And bad at hiding his indiscretions too.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233953].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author quadagon
        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

        Actually, yes. :-) By any name he chooses.

        Cheers. - Frank
        I'd believe he's still in the top 1% of golfers though, even if he's not the force he once was. This is more a conversation about position and expectation though.

        You're right though he's no tiger woods
        Signature
        I've got 99 problems but a niche ain't one
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10233955].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by quadagon View Post

          I'd believe he's still in the top 1% of golfers
          I guess it depends how deeply you want to dive. He's No. 288, today.

          Cheers. - Frank
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234019].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author nizamanirehan
    If u like your name. Use your real name.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234485].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by nizamanirehan View Post

      If u like your name. Use your real name.
      Well, there you go folks. The brilliance of this first-time poster has cleared that up for us. Do you now begin to see why this forum continues its downward slide with each new registrant?

      This is tragic, if you care about this place - at all. People can't read, they can't comprehend, they can't reason and they can't think, critically. And people wonder why 99+% of all IM'ers fail to make a single dime.

      There's your answer.

      Cheers. - Frank

      P.S. This one wasn't even bright enough to throw in a signature link. lol
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234527].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Mark Singletary
    Should you use your real name in a blog?
    Yes.

    Cheers. - Big Frank
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234538].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by Mark Singletary View Post

      Yes.

      Cheers. - Big Frank
      Hey. Didn't you used to be Mark Dingleberry??? Nice name change! :-)

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234543].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author LillyR
    You should most definitely use your own name. Great branding plus being a real person with a LinkedIn page, Facebook, etc instills trust and ads legitimacy to what you're sharing with your readers.

    The only reason I can think you wouldn't use your real name would be due to the fact your content is poor, or you are promoting something that is shady, and something you do not want to be associated with.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234563].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author webmarketer
      Originally Posted by LillyR View Post

      The only reason I can think you wouldn't use your real name would be due to the fact your content is poor, or you are promoting something that is shady, and something you do not want to be associated with.
      And wanting privacy.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234570].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
        Banned
        Originally Posted by webmarketer View Post

        And wanting privacy.
        This is my last attempt before abandoning this thread, lest the combined idiocy begins to rub off on me.

        Whether you use your real name or not, it is NOT going to affect your privacy, because no one on planet Earth is going to know whether you are using your real name or NOT.

        Can this be any more about apples and oranges? Yet, everyone is talking about bananas.

        I leave you all to your own personal brand of insanity. I'm off to the OT where almost everyone has an IQ registering over room temperature. That's very rare, upstairs.

        Cheers. - Frank
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234579].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author webmarketer
          Exactly, Frank. "Whether you use your real name or not, it is NOT going to affect your privacy, because no one on planet Earth is going to know whether you are using your real name or NOT."

          But the author/creator/webmaster knows whether he/she gave his real name or not. So whether the whole world knows or doesn't is immaterial. The creator's perception matters most.


          Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

          This is my last attempt before abandoning this thread, lest the combined idiocy begins to rub off on me.

          Whether you use your real name or not, it is NOT going to affect your privacy, because no one on planet Earth is going to know whether you are using your real name or NOT.

          Can this be any more about apples and oranges? Yet, everyone is talking about bananas.

          I leave you all to your own personal brand of insanity. I'm off to the OT where almost everyone has an IQ registering over room temperature. That's very rare, upstairs.

          Cheers. - Frank
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234589].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
            Banned
            Originally Posted by webmarketer View Post

            The creator's perception matters most.
            Are you taking all of your meds? Though pithy, that is some of the worst IM psycho-babble I have ever read.

            What the hell does that even mean? lol

            Cheers. - Frank
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234596].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author webmarketer
              Exactly my point. It doesn't need to make sense to anyone as long as it makes sense to the author.


              Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

              Are you taking all of your meds? Though pithy, that is some of the worst IM psycho-babble I have ever read.

              What the hell does that even mean? lol

              Cheers. - Frank
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234598].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                Banned
                Originally Posted by webmarketer View Post

                Exactly my point. It doesn't need to make sense to anyone as long as it makes sense to the author.
                I still don't know what you are referring to, but OK. lol

                Cheers. - Frank
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234628].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by LillyR View Post

      You should most definitely use your own name. Great branding plus being a real person with a LinkedIn page, Facebook, etc instills trust and ads legitimacy to what you're sharing with your readers.

      The only reason I can think you wouldn't use your real name would be due to the fact your content is poor, or you are promoting something that is shady, and something you do not want to be associated with.
      Like I said about reading, comprehension and critical thinking. You can't make this stuff up, folks. lol

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234572].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author quadagon
      Originally Posted by LillyR View Post

      The only reason I can think you wouldn't use your real name would be due to the fact your content is poor, or you are promoting something that is shady, and something you do not want to be associated with.
      Have you read all the thread or was the urge to post to great?
      Signature
      I've got 99 problems but a niche ain't one
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234584].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
      Originally Posted by LillyR View Post

      The only reason I can think you wouldn't use your real name would be due to the fact your content is poor, or you are promoting something that is shady, and something you do not want to be associated with.
      Rofl. Got to agree with Frank on this. Some truly ridiculous claims being made in this thread. Millions of people want and even buy products for privacy but if a marketer as is his choice builds a brand not around his own name he is into something shady.

      [Note: did not see John address this issue before I posted the following]

      How about having goals and visions of being more than small time? I have ventures I would never build around my real name because I'd rather build a brand that years from now I can sell. I greatly limit the value of the business by building its entire rep around my real name which the buyer most likely will not have.
      Signature

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237652].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jonathan S
    Originally Posted by ecomguy View Post

    Im putting together my technology blog and wondering how I should put myself out there. If I should use my real name or a stage name.
    I will be interviewing people on camera and I dont know if itd be awkward to use a stage name or if its best not to.

    Im thinking of people like Pete Cashmore, Michael Arrington, Jeremy Schoemaker, Darren Rowse. I dont know if their names are real or stage name
    Using your real name in a blog is an excellent idea, you can make a brand out of it! However, there are some exceptions: if your name is unusually long or hard to pronounce or an unfortunate name derived from a waste water sewage that people hate then better use a pen name, something that suits your niche.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234585].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by Jonathan S View Post

      Using your real name in a blog is an excellent idea, you can make a brand out of it! However, there are some exceptions: if your name is unusually long or hard to pronounce or an unfortunate name derived from a waste water sewage that people hate then better use a pen name, something that suits your niche.
      Have you read all of the thread, or was the urge to post too great?
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10234588].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author kajay
    Why to hide your real name, you should be proud of your work.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235882].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by kajay View Post

      Why to hide your real name, you should be proud of your work.
      Why to not read the thread, before posting you?

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235892].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author @tjr
      Originally Posted by kajay View Post

      Why to hide your real name, you should be proud of your work.
      I doubt you're serious, but just in case someone who actually needs help ends up in this thread:

      1. You operate in a niche you'd rather not be attached to (herpes, warts, fetish sites, you name it).
      2. You don't intend to keep the business forever. Perhaps you're going to sell it, perhaps it is a college hobby before you move on to your real career. Either way, why have your name attached to something that might not be in your life a few years down the line?
      3. The name attached to a business literally doesn't matter. Literally. Frank has said it multiple times in this thread. It's what is behind the name (the personality you create, the business activities that create the character of your business) that is going to leave a lasting impression. The name is nothing more than a label to contain all of that. It can be anything.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235896].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author iAmNameLess
        Originally Posted by @tjr View Post

        I doubt you're serious, but just in case someone who actually needs help ends up in this thread:

        1. You operate in a niche you'd rather not be attached to (herpes, warts, fetish sites, you name it).
        2. You don't intend to keep the business forever. Perhaps you're going to sell it, perhaps it is a college hobby before you move on to your real career. Either way, why have your name attached to something that might not be in your life a few years down the line?
        3. The name attached to a business literally doesn't matter. Literally. Frank has said it multiple times in this thread. It's what is behind the name (the personality you create, the business activities that create the character of your business) that is going to leave a lasting impression. The name is nothing more than a label to contain all of that. It can be anything.
        I'm pretty sure the point is that nobody would know if it's a real name or not. So whether you're ashamed of your work or proud of your work it really makes no difference.

        Man... the responses in here..
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10235918].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author troy23
    If you want to brand yourself then use your real name.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10236267].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author yukon
    Banned
    Don't call me Shirley.







    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10236278].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Maikel Michiels
    I think the focus point of most of the discussion isn't the thing we should be focused on. I'll try to shed my own light (perspective) on the matter:

    First things first:

    Like "BigFrank" (let's call her by her real name, Julia) has pointed out time and time again: Your audience won't know whether you use your real name or a pen name, Unless of course you're being an idiot about and leaving huge clues (not covering up your WHOIS, or signing off a post with the wrong name for example).

    So let's toss that argument out of the window for now.

    What remains are what I think would be the real reasons to using a pen name.

    Firstly, brand-ability. Many people here said to build a personal brand, and I completely agree. But, does that personal brand really have to be you? The answer would have to be no, because your readers can't tell if it's your real name.

    If your name is something that would be incredibly hard to remember or to even pronounce, you might want to opt for something that's more memorable.

    Second, to answer Julia's question (near the beginning of this thread):

    Q: Who would know whether you're using a pen name or your own?
    A: That would be people that already know you, and yourself.

    If you're in a "shady" niche that you don't want the people around you to find out about, by all means go ahead and use a pen name. Because your friends might Google your (and everyone else's names) just to see what they can find. You might not want them to find what kind of business you have, for various reasons.

    Lastly, let me ask you this:

    If a bear shits in the woods and nobody sees it, does said bear still shit in the woods?
    If you kill a man and nobody finds out, did you still kill him?

    Obviously, Yes.

    The question above might seem kinda... ridiculous, but bear with me for a second (yes, pun definitely intended). For me the reason I use my real name on my blog is my personal choice. Personally I'm not ok with using another name / pretending I'm somebody I'm not. It goes against my principles to do so.

    That doesn't mean I wouldn't get away with it. Let's say I didn't use my real name here or on my blog, people would still have their trust in me and they wouldn't ever be able to figure it out. (given that I would cover my tracks). So I guess I'll give you a bonus question:

    Can you PROVE that I'm really using my real name here? Heck I might even be Frank / Julia / whatever my real name is.

    I think I'll leave it with the point that whether or not to use your real name comes down to your own integrity and brandability. And perhaps to how nosy your friends and relatives are.

    Cheers. - Frank
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237328].message }}
  • You don't have to use your real name I'm sure the pricks will pass more laws to force us to but right now we can get away without doing that i have niches (and thousands others) where we publish on Amazon with pen names and have corresponding blogs with fake pen names I'm 100% sure this will be a crime once the freedom haters get around to it and ban that as well but for now my legal people say we can do it and I know tons of people are doing it. 99.99% of people here have never make money so when they say you have to use your name think twice, there is a reason why singers and actors don't use their real names why are they forcing you to use yours?
    Signature

    Join Next Live Mastermind Zoominar 100% Real World Secrets to Get Up And Running. Are you Stuck? Don’t miss it www.MonthlyMastermind.org
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237352].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author SMworkcafe
    I don't use my name. I just use the following format:

    _____________

    Love,

    (My Signature)

    _____________

    I have mentioned my real name within the 'About Me' section though.
    Signature

    Cheers!

    - Sana.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237492].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

      I have mentioned my real name within the 'About Me' section though.
      So you say. I don't believe you. lol

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237501].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author SMworkcafe
        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

        So you say. I don't believe you. lol

        Cheers. - Frank
        Lol! I have my name along with my picture proudly displayed. But yes, I do not mention my whole name.
        I use an initial in the middle: Sana M. Ameer.

        Then I share my son's picture too. And, then the opt-in box comes.

        Don't believe me :p
        Signature

        Cheers!

        - Sana.

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237516].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
          Banned
          Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

          Lol! I have my name along with my picture proudly displayed.
          How can you prove either is real?
          Then I share my son's picture too.
          When we all know that you are childless and use a picture of your neighbor's son in order to get the Internet community to think of you in a motherly way, thereby obfuscating your true identity as an international diamond smuggler and money launderer. You can't fool me.
          Don't believe me :p
          Do you see the ludicrous lengths this can be taken to? lol

          Now - when are you going to tell us your real name. Seriously!

          Cheers. - Frank
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237527].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author SMworkcafe
            Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

            How can you prove either is real?
            When we all know that you are childless and use a picture of your neighbor's son in order to get the Internet community to think of you in a motherly way, thereby obfuscating your true identity as an international diamond smuggler and money launderer. You can't fool me.
            Do you see the ludicrous lengths this can be taken to? lol

            Now - when are you going to tell us your real name. Seriously!

            Cheers. - Frank
            So you want me to show you my ID card on a public forum? Seriously?

            If you were interested knowing more about me, you could have easily sent me a PM and created a screenshot of my reply. Hence, you decided to choose the other way and instead tried to malign me as a 'smuggler' or a 'money launderer'.

            And don't you DARE call me a childless woman! I have a 7.5 years old son for god's sake! If you have children, you should be ashamed of yourself.
            Signature

            Cheers!

            - Sana.

            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237553].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author Jill Carpenter
              Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

              So you want me to show you my ID card on a public forum? Seriously?

              If you were interested knowing more about me, you could have easily sent me a PM and created a screenshot of my reply. Hence, you decided to choose the other way and instead tried to malign me as a 'smuggler' or a 'money launderer'.

              And don't you DARE call me a childless woman! I have a 7.5 years old son for god's sake! If you have children, you should be ashamed of yourself.
              I do hope you were not offended. Geeze, it gets so tricky to read people sometimes on public forums.

              He doesn't have a clue who you are - and please don't be upset but it really doesn't matter in the big scheme of things. That is the point of this thread.

              You can tell us who you are and all kinds of personal stuff here - but you have to remember this is a pretty big public forum and we've had all kinds of people in the past tell us all kinds of stories that turned out untrue.

              I don't know what you sell, but most likely Frank is not your future customer. I wouldn't worry too much what he says here. It's apparent (to me anyway) he is full of loads of sarcasm (though he may come back in and deny it, lol).

              If you were truly offended as a mother, just letting you know this is one of those things that needs to just roll right past you.

              ID cards can be faked. Names can be made up. Not saying you are lying, but perhaps it will make you more aware not to take everyone you come across here at face value.
              Signature

              "May I have ten thousand marbles, please?"

              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237614].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                Banned
                Originally Posted by Jill Carpenter View Post

                I do hope you were not offended. Geeze, it gets so tricky to read people sometimes on public forums.
                Really, I think it's quite obvious that 99% of the time I am joking, albeit I don't mind getting a rise out of people that can't see through my methods. Shame on them - not, me.
                He doesn't have a clue who you are - and please don't be upset but it really doesn't matter in the big scheme of things. That is the point of this thread.
                No - it's the point of mostly MY posts on this thread. Read them carefully and you'll be shell-shocked by the incredible inability to understand the very simple truths I am attempting to espouse. This is not rocket science and it's a good thing beause if brains were dynamite, most of the people that have posted on this thread couldn't blow their own nose.
                You can tell us who you are and all kinds of personal stuff here - but you have to remember this is a pretty big public forum and we've had all kinds of people in the past tell us all kinds of stories that turned out untrue.
                Right, like her claim of making ALMOST $300k per year. lol No one making that kind of money could ever be so miserable. It's not humanly possible, but I guess 'humanly' is the operative word.
                I don't know what you sell, but most likely Frank is not your future customer.
                I wouldn't buy anything from such an incredibly humorless individual. Talking about taking yourself a bit too seriously, ladies and gentlemen - WE HAVE A WINNER!!!
                I wouldn't worry too much what he says here. It's apparent (to me anyway) he is full of loads of sarcasm (though he may come back in and deny it, lol).
                Never deny the truth. Be proud of who and what you are as ong as you have a good reason for acting in the manner that you do. I have plenty of good reasons - all on display, in this thread.
                If you were truly offended as a mother, just letting you know this is one of those things that needs to just roll right past you.
                Can you imagine growing up in that joyless domicile. lol
                ID cards can be faked. Names can be made up. Not saying you are lying, but perhaps it will make you more aware not to take everyone you come across here at face value.
                Personality can't be faked. I have a clear view of this person and it's not very attractive.

                She should learn to laugh, she'd live longer, but that might not be such a great outcome. :-)

                Cheers. - Frank
                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237644].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author SMworkcafe
                  Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                  Right, like her claim of making ALMOST $300k per year. lol No one making that kind of money could ever be so miserable. It's not humanly possible, but I guess 'humanly' is the operative word.
                  To let everyone know, he's talking about my comment on this thread:

                  http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...steps-mmo.html

                  I am quoting it here again:

                  Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

                  Not billion dollars but few millions in my case.


                  To OP, I want to give you a benefit of doubt and suggest you one thing:

                  Start doing it all over again. Do exactly whatever you were doing before.

                  It was and still working - right?

                  You say your income is decreasing and you are not happy. Well, use it while it lasts. I, sometimes, do not reach my average monthly earnings but that doesn't stop me nor it makes me 'lazy'.

                  Scale your business up. PPC works wonders for my business, but it needs investment. Even if you have little, you can still use it. I am not a U.S. national myself and the currency exchange rates eat most of my hard earned money but still, sometimes (accordingly to the monthly income) I earn more than my siblings who are living in U.S. .

                  I don't make $300,000 annually, but I am very close in making it probably because I have different sources of income (websites, freelance projects, 3 local clients, offline students). Why aren't you using the opportunities present online/offline?

                  I agree with most of the contributors out here that you already know the path. We can't help you to become active again. It's your decision to utilize how much time and energy you want to invest in your business.
                  So yes, I did not say I am making $300,000 annually. I am far behind it. But, I have the drive to make it happen and I just know I can achieve it.

                  Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                  She should learn to laugh, she'd live longer, but that might not be such a great outcome. :-)
                  I 'thanked' your post above and shared a good laugh with you until you got to where it is now. I don't care what you wish for me but I do wish you a long life for the sake of your loved ones.
                  Signature

                  Cheers!

                  - Sana.

                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237666].message }}
                  • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
                    Originally Posted by kilgore View Post

                    While I totally agree with you about having an exit strategy (actually one of my goals is to be able to sell my business in 5 - 10 years), this doesn't mean that you need to -- or should -- use a pseudonym. What we do is create a brand around our business name, not around us as individuals. We do have an About Us page where the founders' names are written, and when we post to our blog, we use our real names there too. But most of our customers know and love us for being the ABC Widget Corporation, not for me being who I am personally. It's not unlike people knowing WhatsApp for being WhatsApp, not for being the company of Brian Acton and Jan Koum -- though of course, if I ever am able to sell my company, somehow I don't think I'll get 19.4 billion for it
                    I often list myself as the publisher, rather than the owner. Sometimes it's General Manager, depending on the circumstances.

                    If I post under my name, it's usually as a "Contributor" rather than a principal of the site/company.

                    Like you say, I want customers to know and love the ABC Company, not me personally.
                    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237679].message }}
                  • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                    Banned
                    Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

                    I do wish you a long life for the sake of your loved ones.
                    I have no loved ones. Should not be hard to see why. At least my dog loves me. That's good enough for me. It's amazing what feeding an animal twice a day can achieve. :-)

                    Apology rescinded!

                    Cheers. - Frank
                    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237680].message }}
                    • Profile picture of the author SMworkcafe
                      Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                      I have no loved ones. Should not be hard to see why. At least my dog loves me. That's good enough for me. It's amazing what feeding an animal twice a day can achieve. :-)

                      Apology rescinded!

                      Cheers. - Frank
                      I am not a fast typist like you. I had a tab open to reply to this comment of yours. Because you did apologize, I have given it a 'thanks'. It doesn't matter if it's rescinded or not.

                      Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                      I hope that you kids will be very happy together. I guess you can get a man - but not much of one. You need to aim higher in life. :-) If you can't win the argument you can always go after the booby-prize.

                      Cheers. - Frank

                      P.S. I hereby formally rescind my former apology for you showing such a foul lack of appreciation. Ugh! lol

                      P.P.S. Be sure to check her ID.
                      I am married to one - 8.5 years ago. I don't need an apology or a prize. Kindly don't drag this thread. You are killing it's purpose. I wish you all the very best for your future endeavors. I'm signing off now.
                      Signature

                      Cheers!

                      - Sana.

                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237746].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author SMworkcafe
                Originally Posted by Jill Carpenter View Post

                I do hope you were not offended. Geeze, it gets so tricky to read people sometimes on public forums.

                He doesn't have a clue who you are - and please don't be upset but it really doesn't matter in the big scheme of things. That is the point of this thread.

                You can tell us who you are and all kinds of personal stuff here - but you have to remember this is a pretty big public forum and we've had all kinds of people in the past tell us all kinds of stories that turned out untrue.

                I don't know what you sell, but most likely Frank is not your future customer. I wouldn't worry too much what he says here. It's apparent (to me anyway) he is full of loads of sarcasm (though he may come back in and deny it, lol).

                If you were truly offended as a mother, just letting you know this is one of those things that needs to just roll right past you.

                ID cards can be faked. Names can be made up. Not saying you are lying, but perhaps it will make you more aware not to take everyone you come across here at face value.
                Jill, I get you. If you see my previous threads, you'll understand who I am and what exactly I am up to. I am not in the IM niche and I'm not here to get customers. The only purpose I had to join this forum was to hit the 'thanks' button as much as possible because I have learned a lot from this forum and it helped me find resources for my women's health niche website. I have been a stalker of this forum since 2007 but it is my current website and the lonely feeling I have which led me to create an account here. I love the ongoing participation over here. It's priceless.

                I do not agree that ID cards can be fake. I can easily create a short video of me holding it in my hand and sharing it within a PM if someone has concerns doubting my identity. Again, I can share this information to an individual I trust and not in public.

                I trust Big Frank which is why I stated that if he was unclear about my identity he could have easily PM'ed me. I would have shared my website, my personal info and location to build good and strong connections within the forum. I don't know how many know that there's an option on Upwork.com to verify an account as a freelancer. I have a verified account there and I have proof because I still have that e-mail by Upwork which clearly states that my account is verified.

                I had to read your post multiple times to understand that over here people should not be taken on face value. I do understand that Mr. Alberto was giving examples to make his point as clear as possible but it became a bit personal and I certainly did not like it as you can see within my response above. I have realized this and I apologize if someone was hurt because of my response when s/he did not mean to do so.
                Signature

                Cheers!

                - Sana.

                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237649].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                  Banned
                  Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

                  It's priceless.
                  If by 'priceless' you meann virtually worth nothing, for most of it I agree with you.
                  I do not agree that ID cards can be fake.
                  That's beyond silly. It's, I'm sorry to say, scary-ignorant. Do you know how many hundreds of millions of dollars are spent on fake ID's world wide, each year? Birth certificates, passports, drivers licenses, government ID's. You name it and some one is selling it and you would never be able to spot it as a fake. Next you'll be saying there is no such thing as counterfeit money circulating in the world.
                  I can easily create a short video of me holding it in my hand and sharing it within a PM if someone has concerns doubting my identity. Again, I can share this information to an individual I trust and not in public.
                  Again, and for the last time - how would anyone know that they ID that you are using to demonstrate who you are is actually of you? How can this simple point go over the heads of so many people that claim to be smart? It's frying what little brain I still possess.
                  I trust Big Frank
                  Based on which criteria? My boyish good looks or my charming personality.
                  which is why I stated that if he was unclear about my identity he could have easily PM'ed me. I would have shared my website, my personal info and location to build good and strong connections within the forum.
                  I'm surprised that you haven't created any personal stalkers in your life, by now. Sharing personal info in any public forum is beyond my comprehension. You want to build trust with people that you have no idea if they are serial killers. C'mon. You're just making this stuff up. You have to be.
                  I don't know how many know that there's an option on Upwork.com to verify an account as a freelancer. I have a verified account there and I have proof because I still have that e-mail by Upwork which clearly states that my account is verified.
                  Your account can be easily verified with fraudulent data It's done ever damn day.
                  I had to read your post multiple times to understand that over here people should not be taken on face value. I do understand that Mr. Alberto was giving examples to make his point as clear as possible but it became a bit personal and I certainly did not like it as you can see within my response above. I have realized this and I apologize if someone was hurt because of my response when s/he did not mean to do so.
                  There's no crying in baseball and no getting your feelings hurt in open forums. You didn't hurt me at all. That's next to impossible as I can take it as good as I can dish it out, without ever complaining.

                  That said, that was the absolute weakest excuse for an attempt at an apology as I have ever seen. It's done like this. "Sorry, Frank/Alberto/President Obama if I misinterpreted your post and reacted poorly."

                  It's not that hard. With a little practice, I'm betting you could actually pull it off. :-)

                  Cheers. - Frank
                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237670].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author Jill Carpenter
                  Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

                  I do not agree that ID cards can be fake. I can easily create a short video of me holding it in my hand and sharing it within a PM if someone has concerns doubting my identity.
                  Yikes.
                  I've known people with licenses they don't own (they use them to get into bars).
                  It wouldn't be that hard for me to take let's say my sister's ID/information and use that to get what ever it is I need. So doctoring on the photo - or better yet - pay someone to let me use their photo and attach another name to it.

                  I won't even go into the # of illegals that show up where I live and find ID's to use and make up SS#'s.

                  Not sure where you live.
                  Signature

                  "May I have ten thousand marbles, please?"

                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237671].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
              Banned
              [DELETED]
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237626].message }}
              • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                My God. What you don't have is any sense of humor. How did you ever land a man that would want to have a child with you? You are one foul creature.
                Whoa Nelly!! Some funny stuff before and she did read you wrong but now you are going waaaay over the line.
                Signature

                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237672].message }}
                • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                  Banned
                  Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                  Whoa Nelly!! Some funny stuff before and she did read you wrong but now you are going waaaay over the line.
                  All I know is what I see. Sorry if your incredibly delicate sensibilities were bruised. Walk it off. You'll be fine.

                  Cheers. - Frank
                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237676].message }}
                  • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                    Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                    All I know is what I see. Sorry if your incredibly delicate sensibilities were bruised. Walk it off. You'll be fine.

                    Cheers. - Frank
                    Nah I did more than that. I reported you. You are out of line. Questioning what man would want to have a child with her is just rude and obnoxious not funny. You ought to know by now I won't be walking off anything
                    Signature

                    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237683].message }}
                    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                      Banned
                      Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                      Nah I did more than that. I reported you. You are out of line. Questioning what man would want to have a child with her is just rude and obnoxious not funny. You ought to know by now I won't be walking off anything
                      Oh, you're such a tough guy. lol Like you've never said anything rude and obnoxious to anyone. Too, funny. There are many that think you are the most rude and obnoxious person on the forum.

                      I love it when people report posts that the person that was supposedly offended does not report. Schoolyard cop. lol

                      Go pound sand. - Frank
                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237688].message }}
                      • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                        Oh, you're such a tough guy. lol Like you've never said anything rude and obnoxious to anyone. Too, funny.

                        Go pound sand. - Frank
                        I've never got into the issue of who a woman got to have children with. Don't confuse strong posts with being rude like you just were. As should be obvious I don't care about your clique downstairs either. Adjust your trifocal - this ain't the OT section and even down there you don't direct me on squat.

                        Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                        I love it when people report posts that the person that was supposedly offended does not report. Schoolyard cop. lol
                        What can I say? Chivalry just comes naturally to me. Love it hate it don't matter me none what you say - never noticed that before?
                        Signature

                        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237692].message }}
                        • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                          Banned
                          Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                          I've never got into the issue of who a woman got to have children with. Don't confuse strong posts with being rude like you just were. Adjust your trifocal - this ain't the OT section and even down there you don't direct me on squat.
                          ESAD!
                          What can I say? Chivalry just comes naturally to me.
                          What a joke. You just like sticking your nose where it doesn't belong.
                          Love it hate it don't matter me none what you say - never noticed that before?
                          Ever noticed that I don't recognize your existence on the planet? Do you know why that is?

                          Give it some thought. It shouldn't be too hard to figure it out. lol

                          Cheers. - Frank
                          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237700].message }}
                          • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                            Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                            ESAD!
                            What a joke. You just like sticking your nose where it doesn't belong.
                            Only where it smell and needs cleaning up and haven't you read the forum? We all have a responsibility to help the mods out. Just doing my civic duty for the day

                            Ever noticed that I don't recognize your existence on the planet? Do you know why that is?
                            ROFL.....the true definition of a self contradictory self defeating post. If you don't recognize my presence who are you replying to?

                            and then he actually says "give it some thought"..what a punch line.....Let me supply the only thing thats missing

                            Rim shot!!

                            lol
                            Signature

                            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237707].message }}
                    • Profile picture of the author SMworkcafe
                      Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                      Nah I did more than that. I reported you. You are out of line. Questioning what man would want to have a child with her is just rude and obnoxious not funny. You ought to know by now I won't be walking off anything
                      Mike, I don't know you, but I would like to extend my appreciation for recognizing this statement of his which I simply ignored.

                      I didn't realize that comments can be reported here. And, I just reported the same comment.

                      Thank you.
                      Signature

                      Cheers!

                      - Sana.

                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237708].message }}
                      • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                        Banned
                        Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

                        Mike, I don't know you, but I would like to extend my appreciation for recognizing this statement of his which I simply ignored.

                        I didn't realize that comments can be reported here. And, I just reported the same comment.

                        Thank you.
                        I hope that you kids will be very happy together. I guess you can get a man - but not much of one. You need to aim higher in life. :-) If you can't win the argument you can always go after the booby-prize.

                        Cheers. - Frank

                        P.S. I hereby formally rescind my former apology for you showing such a foul lack of appreciation. Ugh! lol

                        P.P.S. Be sure to check her ID.
                        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237716].message }}
                        • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                          Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                          I hope that you kids will be very happy together. I guess you can get a man - but not much of one. You need to aim higher in life. :-)
                          Reported again. Take your sexist rudeness off these boards Frank or i am sure a mod will come along and remove it for you. A woman's ability to get a man shouldn't be an issue on this forum even if you had a clue about her personal life. If you are upset about your dog take out the frustration somewhere else not a human being.

                          P.P.S. Be sure to check her ID.
                          I'll be sure not to because it has nothing to do with your behavior

                          Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                          I can't respond. I am simply overwhelmed by your incredible intellectual superiority.
                          Understood. You should be used to it by now though. Its not like its your first time in that overwhelmed state.
                          Signature

                          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237729].message }}
                          • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                            Banned
                            Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                            Reported again.
                            You're funny. You're like a 6-year old that found a new toy. lol
                            Take your sexist rudeness off these boards Frank or i am sure a mod will come along and remove it for you.
                            That's their job. I have never complained when a mod has removed any of my posts. That said, you'll forgive me if I ignore your entreaty as I don't care what you think. I was pretty sure I had made that clear, but I guess you are blinded by, well - you know.
                            A woman's ability to get a man shouldn't be an issue on this forum even if you had a clue about her personal life.
                            I know you'd like to think that I'm being serious, so you can feign outrage. If that's true, then your dumber then you're even currently displaying - if at all possible.
                            If you are upset about your dog take out the frustration somewhere else not a human being.
                            You leave my dog out of this. That's going over the line and you know it. Where do you get your nerve complaining about anything anyone says after making an incredibly snide and hurtful comment like that? Yet, I would never think of reporting you because only wimps do that. Still, I will never forget what you said and I promise you that.

                            Now you've gone too far over the line. Way, way, way to far.

                            Frank
                            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237739].message }}
                            • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                              Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                              You leave my dog out of this. That's going over the line and you know it. Where do you get your nerve complaining about anything anyone says after making an incredibly snide and hurtful comment like that? Yet, I would never think of reporting you because only wimps do that.
                              Report me for what? Giving you the benefit of the doubt that it could be some hurt you are having over your dog why you are lashing out at a human being, questioning her ability to get a man and how she could have found a man to have achild with. Go ahead report it. Nothing offensive about thinking that your pain in one area is causing this behavour of yours. Also nothing snide about it

                              But I get it. Mentioning your dog is over the line but telling a a human being they can't get a man is fine and dandy. You sure do have your priorities straight. What s hurtful to Frank is no laughing matter but to this woman? eh fair game right?
                              Signature

                              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237752].message }}
                              • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                                Banned
                                Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                                Report me for what? Giving you the benefit of the doubt that it could be some hurt you are having over your dog why you are lashing out at a human being, questioning her ability to get a man and how she could have found a man to have achild with. Go ahead report it. Nothing offensive about thinking that your pain in one area is causing this behavour of yours. Also nothing snide about it

                                But I get it. Mentioning your dog is over the line but telling a a human being they can't get a man is fine and dandy. You sure do have your priorities straight. What s hurtful to Frank is no laughing matter but to this woman? eh fair game right?
                                Save it. I meant what I said. I have stored your comment away for future use. I'm not going to forget this. I swear that to you.
                                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237754].message }}
                                • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                                  Originally Posted by BigFrank View Post

                                  Save it. I meant what I said. I have stored your comment away for future use. I'm not going to forget this. I swear that to you.
                                  do what ever you want Frank. I am sure people have stored away your sexist rants and attacks against this woman too. I swear that to you too. I don't need to save anything. I still do think that your pain over your dog might be causing this outburst but if hey if you want to assure me this is how you operate without reference to being worried with things then I can take your word for it too. I have no problem that giving you the benefit of the doubt might be wrong.

                                  I just love how someone mentions your concern for your dog might be causing your sexist attacks against a human being and THAT becomes out of line rather than your sexist attacks.
                                  Signature

                                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237768].message }}
                      • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                        Originally Posted by SMworkcafe View Post

                        I didn't realize that comments can be reported here. And, I just reported the same comment.

                        Thank you.
                        You are very welcome SM. Yep just hit that red triangle. In fairness some of the other posts were just jokes but once he started getting into who would want to have a child with you and calling you names he is just waaaay out of line.

                        No woman (or man) on this board has to put up with that and the mods will eventually give a repeat offender a vacation from the boards.
                        Signature

                        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237719].message }}
                        • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
                          Banned
                          Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                          You are very welcome SM. Yep just hit that red triangle. In fairness some of the other posts were just jokes but once he started getting into who would want to have a child with you and calling you names he is just waaaay out of line.

                          No woman (or man) on this board has to put up with that and the mods will eventually give a repeat offender a vacation from the boards.
                          You are living proof that a person can repeatedly abuse and be rude to and demean others with no repercussions whatsoever. You've done and gotten away with it for years.
                          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237742].message }}
                          • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
                            Banned
                            Originally Posted by sbucciarel View Post

                            You are living proof that a person can repeatedly abuse and be rude to and demean others with no repercussions whatsoever. You've done and gotten away with it for years.
                            Uh-oh. You've stepped in it, now. I can't wait to see the polite and gentlemanly response from Mr. Chivalry. lol

                            Cheers. - Frank
                            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237745].message }}
                          • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                            Originally Posted by sbucciarel View Post

                            You are living proof that a person can repeatedly abuse and be rude to and demean others with no repercussions whatsoever. You've done and gotten away with it for years.
                            Icing on the cake and a pretty good indicator to anyone reading why I have "gotten away with it for years" - because your idea of rude and demeaning is what offends you and your friends

                            Exhibit A. - here you are in a thread posting in support of a friend of yours calling a woman names and questioning her ability to get a man and have children. Skipped over all that from your friend to attack me for daring to stand against it

                            Thanks Suzanne. despite any spin to come you will you put on it any unbaised person can see that for what it is. Just another in along line of proofs you and yours have provided. Call some more friends. get them all lined up to attack me for defending a woman against sexist derogatory statements so the whole board can see it.

                            Great stuff
                            Signature

                            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237762].message }}
                            • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
                              Banned
                              Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                              Icing on the cake and a pretty good indicator to anyone reading why I have "gotten away with it for years" - because your idea of rude and demeaning is what offends you and your friends

                              Exhibit A. - here you are in a thread posting in support of a friend of yours calling a woman names and questioning her ability to get a man and have children. Skipped over all that from your friend to attack me for daring to stand against it

                              Thanks Suzanne. despite any spin to come you will you put on it any unbaised person can see that for what it is. Just another in along line of proofs you and yours have provided. Call some more friends. get them all lined up to attack me for defending a woman against sexist derogatory statements so the whole board can see it.

                              Great stuff
                              Since you are calling for a ban for his "offense" I call for equal treatment for those who engage in personal attacks (with impunity thus far). After all, it's only fair.

                              Frank may have gone over the line, but you have done so for years and you're still here. I make my observations without the help of any of these alleged friends that you think I may have. If you've read the latest hot threads I've posted in, you'd be aware that I don't really have a lot of friends here. Frank, yes .. is one and I make no apologies or excuses for his posts. I also don't apologize for calling him a friend. I have weird tastes in men. lol.
                              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237770].message }}
                              • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                                Originally Posted by sbucciarel View Post

                                Since you are calling for a ban for his "offense" I call for equal treatment for those who engage in personal attacks (with impunity thus far).
                                Meh.....I haven't called for anything. You are just sore because I told a member that they didn't have to put up with sexist derogatory attacks from your friend and told her that if she used the report button on frequent repeat offenses what might happen.

                                She wasn't aware of the rules so I informed her

                                But of course call for whatever you wish against me. especially in this thread with your friend telling this woman she can't get a man and questioning what man would ever be with her to have a child. With each post glossing over that to attack her defender you make your agenda that much more apparent.
                                Signature

                                {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237783].message }}
                                • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
                                  Banned
                                  Originally Posted by Mike Anthony View Post

                                  She wasn't aware of the rules so I informed her

                                  But of course call for whatever you wish against me. especially in this thread with your friend telling this woman she can't get a man and questioning what man would ever be with her to have a child. With each post glossing over that to attack her defender you make your agenda that much more apparent.
                                  My agenda ... lol. My agenda was to point out that the report button works for some and not for some. If you're one of the protected individuals who can make personal attacks for years with no repercussions ... the report button doesn't work at all.

                                  You can deny all you want your past posting history, but many of us have been the victim of it, and just because you don't care to own your own behavior, doesn't make it any less abusive. The Mike I know isn't a defender of women. He is equally as rude to women as men, so this new thing you got going here ... is amusing.
                                  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237789].message }}
                                  • {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237805].message }}
                                  • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
                                    Originally Posted by sbucciarel View Post

                                    You can deny all you want your past posting history, but many of us have been the victim of it, and just because you don't care to own your own behavior, doesn't make it any less abusive. The Mike I know isn't a defender of women..
                                    Suzanne,,,You can lie about me all you want to defend your friends sexists rants. I have never attacked a woman on this board for being a woman or her inability to get a man or have children. Trying to insinuate that I don't defend women on this board against such things normally (unlike your friend) is just you being dishonest

                                    I have had some strong disagreements with you and others especially in regard to racism (And now sexism) and ownership rants but hey seeing how biased you are in this thread even as a woman glossing over another woman being attacked on abilities for her to get a man there are some obvious differences in the way we think which I am proud of.

                                    Meanwhile the report button works fine for everyone. the 411 to anyone reading this is that despite you hitting the report button the admins of this board just simply have not agreed with you more often than they do so you are whining about special privilege because you don't get to control the board anymore through your friendships. Skip the backseat mod decision questioning - its no longer in vogue. whatever they decide they decide.

                                    Thats what it is REALLY all about and why Frank thinks he can attack a woman in regard to her husband, her children and her sex appeal but can turn right around and demand that the mere mention of a noun (dog) he doesn't want referenced is an affront and way over the line.

                                    Again......Thanks for making things really clear in this thread. Meanwhile I have never been sued for slander on a forum so the person who has had a court ruling against them for just that going on about my history is just rich irony
                                    Signature

                                    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237810].message }}
                                    • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
                                      Banned
                                      Originally Posted by MikeAnthony View Post

                                      Suzanne ,,,You can lie about me all you want to defend your friends sexists rants. I have never attacked a woman on this board for being a woman or her inability to get a man or have children. Trying to insinuate that I don't defend women on this board against such things normally (unlike your friend) is just you being dishonest
                                      No ...you've never attacked someone just for being a woman. You just use personal attacks both men and women on this board and have for years to get your points across rather than debate civilly.

                                      Originally Posted by MikeAnthony View Post

                                      I have had some strong disagreements with you and others especially in regard to racism (And now sexism) but hey seeing how biased you are in this thread even as woman glossing over another woman being attacked on abilities for her to get a man there some obvious differences in the way we think which I am proud of.
                                      So are you implying that I am a racists. lol. I don't think we've ever had a disagreement about racism that I can recall.

                                      Originally Posted by MikeAnthony View Post

                                      Meanwhile the report button works fine for everyone. the 411 to anyone reading this is that despite you hitting the report button the admins of this board just simply have not agreed with you more often than they do so you are whining about special privilege because you don't get to control the board anymore through your friendships. Skip the backseat modding its no longer in vogue.

                                      Thats what it is REALLY all about and why Frank thinks he can attack a woman in regard to her husband, her children and her sex appeal but can turn right around and demand that what the mere mention of a noun he doesn't want referenced is an affront and way over the line.

                                      Again......Thanks for making things really clear in this thread.
                                      ha ha ha .. same old argument. People who talk to each other are all friendy friendy and just a cute little cult that are all out to get you. That's song is so old you should get a new song writer. I have never controlled the board and never had a desire to do so, except for reporting personal attacks and spam or topics that are not allowed to be discussed. We all know that you live a privileged charmed Warrior Forum existence in regards to getting away with personal attacks, so your blather about privilege is amusing.
                                      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237820].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
          I think it may have been mentioned, but I'm going to mention it again anyway.

          Here's a perfectly pragmatic reason not to use your real name. You might want to sell it later on. Even if you're (as Frank/Julia colorfully quipped) "one head bump away from being a potted plant", you should have an exit strategy.

          In fact, that's my current strategy - build saleable assets and cash out when the time is right. That's much easier to do when the name on the business can easily be included as a trademark or service mark, rather than having to either leave my own name at the mercy of the new owners or go through a long process explaining the sale.

          I learned the hard way about building a "star shop" where the entire branding revolved around one person. If that person flakes out, sells out ethically, legally or morally, or just takes a sudden dirt nap, that business is in big trouble and likely doomed.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237544].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author kilgore
            Originally Posted by JohnMcCabe View Post

            Here's a perfectly pragmatic reason not to use your real name. You might want to sell it later on. Even if you're (as Frank/Julia colorfully quipped) "one head bump away from being a potted plant", you should have an exit strategy.
            While I totally agree with you about having an exit strategy (actually one of my goals is to be able to sell my business in 5 - 10 years), this doesn't mean that you need to -- or should -- use a pseudonym. What we do is create a brand around our business name, not around us as individuals. We do have an About Us page where the founders' names are written, and when we post to our blog, we use our real names there too. But most of our customers know and love us for being the ABC Widget Corporation, not for me being who I am personally. It's not unlike people knowing WhatsApp for being WhatsApp, not for being the company of Brian Acton and Jan Koum -- though of course, if I ever am able to sell my company, somehow I don't think I'll get 19.4 billion for it
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237596].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author Mike Anthony
              Originally Posted by kilgore View Post

              We do have an About Us page where the founders' names are written, and when we post to our blog, we use our real names there too. But most of our customers know and love us for being the ABC Widget Corporation, not for me being who I am personally.
              Then whats the point? Should the blog become popular you are building rep around names you don't want to be your brand
              Signature

              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237669].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author DATruk
    This stuff is great! Where is the "Like" button...

    -DATruk
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237493].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author BigFrank
      Banned
      Originally Posted by DATruk View Post

      This stuff is great! Where is the "Like" button...

      -DATruk
      We only have a 'Thanks' button on this forum.

      Cheers. - Frank
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237497].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Barry Unruh
    Wow, gone from the forum for a week and come back to discover so many cool things...

    Suzanne has weird tastes in men...I knew I liked her for some reason.

    Big Frank has a warped sense of humor...wait a minute, that's not new.
    Signature
    Brain Drained...Signature Coming Soon!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10237797].message }}

Trending Topics