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Probably a strange question but here it goes

by Christian Fox
8 replies
What is your opinion on using your real name vs a pen or 'Hollywood' name for your online endeavors?

I have every intention of succeeding massively in this endeavor. Initially my strategy is to launch multiple mini sites offering informational/digital products in various niche markets. I have spent a ridiculous amount of time learning every aspect of this trade.

My point is, I think it is a good marketing twist to be able to say 'Yanik Silver' or 'Marlon Sanders' presents "whatever". Their names are memorable; they evoke interest and are easily burned into memory for future retrieval.

My real name is somewhat boring and unmemorable from a marketing standpoint in my opinion.

I believe that a name is important in this business as far as memory retention and marketing value.

This might border on obsessive compulsive for some but I can't help thinking about it. I know there is so much knowledge here and I believe I would be a fool not to ask.
#question #strange
  • Profile picture of the author Kevin Riley
    Originally Posted by bigmark1972 View Post

    What is your opinion on using your real name vs a pen or 'Hollywood' name for your online endeavors?

    I have every intention of succeeding massively in this endeavor. Initially my strategy is to launch multiple mini sites offering informational/digital products in various niche markets. I have spent a ridiculous amount of time learning every aspect of this trade.

    My point is, I think it is a good marketing twist to be able to say 'Yanik Silver' or 'Marlon Sanders' presents "whatever". Their names are memorable; they evoke interest and are easily burned into memory for future retrieval.

    My real name is somewhat boring and unmemorable from a marketing standpoint in my opinion.

    I believe that a name is important in this business as far as memory retention and marketing value.

    This might border on obsessive compulsive for some but I can't help thinking about it. I know there is so much knowledge here and I believe I would be a fool not to ask.
    IMO, either is far better than going by a handle like "bigmark1972".

    Of course, can't give you any opinion on your name as you haven't provided it here. Myself, I go by my real name, but if it was boring I'd add zing with an added nickname.
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    Kevin Riley, long-time Warrior living in Osaka, Japan

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    • Profile picture of the author Christian Fox
      Originally Posted by Kevin Riley View Post

      IMO, either is far better than going by a handle like "bigmark1972".

      Of course, can't give you any opinion on your name as you haven't provided it here. Myself, I go by my real name, but if it was boring I'd add zing with an added nickname.
      I use BigMark here because that's what my friends call me. I hope to make many friends here so the name fits in this arena, although now that I think about it, that is probably not a good idea if it's not what I intend to use professionally. I would NEVER think of using that in my IM campaign.

      Funny here is my real name....

      Mark Leenheer

      I agree Dennis, I have no intentions of attaching my name to trash...
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      • Profile picture of the author rosetrees
        I always use a pen name, because almost nowhere will let me use my own name. Even EZA, who tell you to use a real name, wouldn't let me use my own name - so we agreed on a pen name (my cat).

        I have a very common name, and even here I've noticed another member with the same name.

        Carol Smith - see, told you so!
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      • Profile picture of the author Will Edwards
        Hi Mark

        There are benefits to both ways:
        • Pros of using your own name or pseudonym - branding.
        • Cons - we can all see what you are up to (lol).
        Think about it carefully.

        By the way, how about Mark Jenison as a pen-name?

        And good luck!

        Will
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      • Profile picture of the author Kevin Riley
        Originally Posted by bigmark1972 View Post

        I use BigMark here because that's what my friends call me. I hope to make many friends here so the name fits in this arena, although now that I think about it, that is probably not a good idea if it's not what I intend to use professionally. I would NEVER think of using that in my IM campaign.

        Funny here is my real name....

        Mark Leenheer

        I agree Dennis, I have no intentions of attaching my name to trash...
        How about Big Mark Leenheer?

        Depending upon your niche, I think you can build on your last name. Play on the Lean Here? Especially if you are in something like self-help, coaching, stuff like that. "Big Mark -- Someone to lean on!"
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        Kevin Riley, long-time Warrior living in Osaka, Japan

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        • Profile picture of the author Christian Fox
          Originally Posted by Kevin Riley View Post

          How about Big Mark Leenheer?

          Depending upon your niche, I think you can build on your last name. Play on the Lean Here? Especially if you are in something like self-help, coaching, stuff like that. "Big Mark -- Someone to lean on!"
          Hmm I like that.......

          Lemme think on it!
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  • Profile picture of the author John Taylor
    Mark,

    Just think long term.. you're a big success and you've
    been invited to speak at a Marketing Seminar. How will
    you be introduced?

    John
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    John's Internet Marketing News, Views & Reviews: John Taylor Online
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    • Profile picture of the author utproducts
      [DELETED]
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      • Profile picture of the author John Taylor
        Originally Posted by qkz283 View Post

        Um, David DeAngelo? :rolleyes:
        It sure beats..

        "Ladies & gentleman, please welcome Big Mark 1972"

        Anyway, he's Eban at Marketing Seminars

        John
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