Do You Use Your Real Name for IM?

118 replies
Especially on Facebook and Twitter, do you open an account with your real name and then start marketing to all of your friends, even your old school friends, family etc? I just can't see myself doing this. If I get serious about doing some social networking or even creating Marketing websites etc I would prefer to be anonymous or create a new identity that I can always move on from one day.
#real
  • Profile picture of the author IceMustang
    Nope. I use my nom de plume that I started for article-writing sites a long time ago.
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    • Profile picture of the author Suthan M
      Yup, I do.
      My name is my brand for the industry that i am in, so I am comfortable with using it. it works, so i dont plan to change it

      But for some other markets- i do use a pen name..

      p/s- There is a big number of people who use pen name in IM successfully too.
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  • Profile picture of the author Showfom
    On Gtalk, yeah, I use my real name
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  • Profile picture of the author Steven Miranda
    I do. I think it helps with creating a recognizable 'brand' online.
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    • Profile picture of the author fastimmy
      Absolutely, its part of "branding yourself
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      • Profile picture of the author M Thompson
        Yes I use my real name but I don't "market" to friends and family, if they are family or genuine friends they already know what i do and know i'll help them if it's a path they want to take.

        I do however have a "Personal" facebook account and a "business" account.
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        • Profile picture of the author myob
          I market in a wide variety of high profile, specialized niches, so it's essential to use dozens of different aliases for tracking, branding, and establishing credibility. Otherwise, no one would ever take me seriously.
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        • Profile picture of the author Dex88
          Originally Posted by M Thompson View Post

          Yes I use my real name but I don't "market" to friends and family, if they are family or genuine friends they already know what i do and know i'll help them if it's a path they want to take.

          I do however have a "Personal" facebook account and a "business" account.
          Good point! You should have a personal account and one that is strictly for marketing purposes.
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      • Profile picture of the author sethczerepak
        Originally Posted by fastimmy View Post

        Absolutely, its part of "branding yourself
        Right on. And for building trust. The "who was that masked man who took my money" and "positioning yourself as an expert even if you're not" days of the internet are pretty much over. If you want to make it big these days, be yourself.
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  • Profile picture of the author abubakar89
    use your real name that builds trust and credibility ........
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  • Profile picture of the author Jeanne Lovely
    I have always used my real name - that is my brand and expertise. I use my real name and reall address and real phone nuber - why would I want to hide it - it shows who I am and what I know
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    • Profile picture of the author Ashley Gable
      Originally Posted by Jeanne Lovely View Post

      I have always used my real name - that is my brand and expertise. I use my real name and reall address and real phone nuber - why would I want to hide it - it shows who I am and what I know
      Yes but you already have a Lovely name:p

      As for everyone saying that using your real names builds credibility...

      As long as you dont go around telling people you are using a pen name, no one should ever know.

      Is my real name more credible than a made up one? As long as it isnt Johnny Blaze Monster I think I should be fine.

      Point is no one should ever know it is a pen name.
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  • Profile picture of the author JSThompson
    I use my real name but I do not sell to friends or family. If they're interested in something I am offering I give it to them. I have went as far as registering my name as my domain name and I even registered a couple of forum names as domain names to protect them too.
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    • Profile picture of the author cjreynolds
      Originally Posted by JSThompson View Post

      I use my real name but I do not sell to friends or family. If they're interested in something I am offering I give it to them. I have went as far as registering my name as my domain name and I even registered a couple of forum names as domain names to protect them too.
      My philosophy, also - I think it comes from so many of my friends selling pyramid scemes, insurance, etc. (Amway, AL Williams...) people turn all their friends into customers - they invite you to dinner, and instead of eating, catching up and palling around together, you get a hard-sell. Often after that you never see them again except when they want to sell you more stuff, talk business, etc. Makes people boring...

      But I do use a pen name for non-IM niches, so not to "dilute" my brand as an IM-er in the future. Besides, if everyone used their real name, America's favorite cowboy would be Marion Morrison instead of "John Wayne"
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  • Profile picture of the author onSubie
    No, I don't. My real name is Brad Pitt and I have a famous wife. If I used my real name people would hunt me down for autographs and never believe that I make more money selling ebooks than I do acting.



    Mahlon (Brad)

    PS Okay, okay.... too much coffee this morning ... or not enough? LOL
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  • Profile picture of the author NicholasCollins
    I have always used my real name as it is my brand as well and my core business which is consulting. However I sometimes will build websites or mini networks with the intention of flipping and I will use a pen name that the new owner will be able to take over and use the pen name or use his own without having my name attached.
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  • Profile picture of the author BridgetSielicki
    i want to brand myself in the area of writing, so I always use my real name for that. If there are other IM things I undertake I may or may not use a pen name, depending on the situation.

    I don't mix business with my personal life on Facebook, but my Twitter account is for business and that is with my personal name. Facebook is the area where I connect with all my family and friends and I like to keep that separate.
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    • Profile picture of the author MissTerraK
      I use both my real name Terra Kern and MissTerraK. They are pretty much synonymous at just about every site I'm involved in.

      I don't really have a specific mind blowing reason to give you as to why, though. It's just who I am. lol!

      Terra
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  • Profile picture of the author YasirYar
    I use my real name. It helps in building reputation and trust. Suppose, if a company sees your work on the internet and decides to call "david" for some help, but when you go there, the company meets "Vince"... Would it look nice?
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    • Profile picture of the author williams cabrera
      If your real name is easy to learn and spell you can use it,i suggest to use your name with your shorter lastname.
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  • Profile picture of the author lkpub
    If you're looking to brand yourself as an "authority" and/or develop business relationships I would suggest using your Real name and/or Business name... not doing so may cost you more in the long run... especially if you're marketing locally or offline...

    It's very easy to hide behind an "alias" and unfortunately, too many scammers and unethical marketers know it and do so...

    I truly believe, "Honesty is the Best Policy"... let your customers and clients know exactly who and what you are and "where you're coming from"... shows respect and gives you credibility...

    The only time I would recommend using an alias or pen name is if you are a writer... it's a common practice for authors and writers...

    Just my thoughts...

    Linda =}
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  • Profile picture of the author research
    Originally Posted by philiptrav View Post

    Especially on Facebook and Twitter, do you open an account with your real name and then start marketing to all of your friends, even your old school friends, family etc? I just can't see myself doing this. If I get serious about doing some social networking or even creating Marketing websites etc I would prefer to be anonymous or create a new identity that I can always move on from one day.

    Is this important ???

    Does it make a difference what name you use, here, there or anywhere.
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  • Profile picture of the author joekoffi
    I think using your real name is necessary if you really want to make an impact even offline. It's important to let your audience know you personally. This can build trust and a better relationship. Most people who use 'background' names are spammers. Imagine you are invited for a business offline live conference. What if behind John Chow was some hidden guy? The day some strange fellow presents himself and say 'I'm john Chow', that's going to be a big joke.
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  • Profile picture of the author GetKane
    Banned
    Not me, I build brands. My name is irrelevant. As a matter of fact, I actually insulate myself legally, personally, and financially.

    That's how I've been taught by selfmade millionaires in my biz, that's how I'm doing it.
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  • Profile picture of the author Matt Daniel
    I use my real name so I can build credibility
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    • Profile picture of the author Alexa Smith
      Banned
      Originally Posted by Matt Daniel View Post

      I use my real name so I can build credibility
      How does using your real name rather than calling yourself (say) Mark Davidson, as a pen-name, "build credibility"?

      The idea of a pen-name is that it looks like a real name. You know this is your real name, but your readers/potential customers can't tell the difference: isn't that the point? You're surely not suggesting that people would instinctively feel that "Matt Daniel" is a more "credible" name than "Mark Davidson"?

      As an affiliate marketer, I use 8 different names in 8 different niches, as so many Warriors do, so that potential customers reading my articles on domestic desalination technology don't notice that their expert author on that subject is also an expert author on cauliflower soup recipes, deep sea fishing and five other niches. I'm not aware that it costs me any "credibility" to be (say) Anna Stewart instead of (my real name) Alexa Smith.
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      • Profile picture of the author kevinhdavis
        Originally Posted by Alexa Smith View Post

        How does using your real name rather than calling yourself (say) Mark Davidson, as a pen-name, "build credibility"?

        The idea of a pen-name is that it looks like a real name. You know this is your real name, but your readers/potential customers can't tell the difference: isn't that the point? You're surely not suggesting that people would instinctively feel that "Matt Daniel" is a more "credible" name than "Mark Davidson"?

        As an affiliate marketer, I use 8 different names in 8 different niches, as so many Warriors do, so that potential customers reading my articles on domestic desalination technology don't notice that their expert author on that subject is also an expert author on cauliflower soup recipes, deep sea fishing and five other niches. I'm not aware that it costs me any "credibility" to be (say) Anna Stewart instead of (my real name) Alexa Smith.
        Where it would effect your credibility is if one of your articles on "deep sea fishing" gets picked up by Deep Sea Fishing Magazine, then ESPN sees the article and wants you to some on a show and host a deep sea fishing tournament.
        Now you go on the show as Fiona Fishexpert, and then while out to lunch someone recognizes you from the show, calls out "Hi Fiona, great call on that undersized marlin" and you don't respond because in your mind you are still Alexa. They then Tweet and Facebook their friends about how rude and weird you were.

        Now in the real world, this would probably never happen
        1) Your article probably wouldn't get picked up
        2) ESPN wouldn't call you to host a show
        3) Even if they did you wouldn't want to go on because you are simply writing as a gun for hire and have no real interest in "deep sea fishing"

        However, someone building a brand that is an expert in their industry can very well have something like this happen. HARO - Help a Reporter Out â„¢ is a great place to get free media exposure by contributing in area you are an expert in. And those contribution can lead to more interviews and opportunities.

        I feel too many people get involved in IM because of the allure of anonymity. It really depends on the business, but in my experience, the cloak and dagger marketing eventually catches up with you. Even if not to the extreme above, at some IM event with people you meet (unless of course you are a total recluse). Other marketers would probably understand, however you would be surprised.

        Thanks,
        Kevin
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      • Profile picture of the author David Ogden
        Originally Posted by Alexa Smith View Post

        How does using your real name rather than calling yourself (say) Mark Davidson, as a pen-name, "build credibility"?

        The idea of a pen-name is that it looks like a real name. You know this is your real name, but your readers/potential customers can't tell the difference: isn't that the point? You're surely not suggesting that people would instinctively feel that "Matt Daniel" is a more "credible" name than "Mark Davidson"?

        As an affiliate marketer, I use 8 different names in 8 different niches, as so many Warriors do, so that potential customers reading my articles on domestic desalination technology don't notice that their expert author on that subject is also an expert author on cauliflower soup recipes, deep sea fishing and five other niches. I'm not aware that it costs me any "credibility" to be (say) Anna Stewart instead of (my real name) Alexa Smith.
        I think you have diluted the branding of your name by a factor of eight, there is nothing wrong with being an expert in eight different areas if you truly are, if not you are purporting to be something you are not.

        You are attempting to mislead your readers and subscribers, I started a new thread on being truthful when marketing on line. http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...ml#post4792527. You may be interested to learn that you are in the minority in both threads .

        You must always use your real name or a pen name if you really must but be consistent.
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        • Profile picture of the author MikeTucker
          Originally Posted by David Ogden View Post

          I think you have diluted the branding of your name by a factor of eight, there is nothing wrong with being an expert in eight different areas if you truly are, if not you are purporting to be something you are not.

          You are attempting to mislead your readers and subscribers, I started a new thread on being truthful when marketing on line. http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...ml#post4792527. You may be interested to learn that you are in the minority in both threads .

          You must always use your real name or a pen name if you really must but be consistent.


          Arachnid's... er, Alexa's consistent quality posts here in this forum leads me to think that it is unlikely that she provides low quality writing anywhere, in any of her niches.


          She is also in the minority of those IMer's who are actually making money, and not just pretending to.


          Gaining someone's trust, and branding yourself with credibility, does not actually require truthfulness. It requires half a brain.


          Honesty and integrity are more internal values than external. You don't actually need them to be successful in any marketing arena.


          And, I'm not sure that using a fake name makes you a liar. Perhaps if you are a doctor or an attorney, or someone who is required to use a real name by their profession. In other things however, writing especially, it is expected that you use pseudonyms.
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        • Profile picture of the author myob
          Originally Posted by David Ogden View Post

          I think you have diluted the branding of your name by a factor of eight, there is nothing wrong with being an expert in eight different areas if you truly are, if not you are purporting to be something you are not.

          You are attempting to mislead your readers and subscribers, I started a new thread on being truthful when marketing on line. http://www.warriorforum.com/main-int...ml#post4792527. You may be interested to learn that you are in the minority in both threads .

          You must always use your real name or a pen name if you really must but be consistent.

          If this were true, then perhaps I have diluted my branding by a factor of 62. You would be surprised how many marketers spitefully disagree with you and are using multiple aliases for their market niches.

          "Whoever undertakes to set himself up as a judge of Truth and Knowledge is shipwrecked by the laughter of the gods."
          - Albert Einstein
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  • Profile picture of the author Matt Daniel
    I also use my real picture
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    • Profile picture of the author taskemann
      Originally Posted by Matt Daniel View Post

      I also use my real picture
      Thats even better!
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      • Profile picture of the author MikeTucker
        Originally Posted by taskemann View Post

        Thats even better!

        Indeed, if people don't mind looking at you!

        <-- (Note that mine is not here)
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  • Profile picture of the author Mac the Knife
    I would NEVER use my real name...as it is "Mac the Gardening Shears" (it just doesn't have the same ring...)

    Mac the Knife
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  • I do. Thin that it's better to use your real name, this way you introduce to many people and make friends. In my opinion when people see the real name they become more trustful. Using your own name, it's like to make your own brand and it's easier to make promition of this brand
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  • Profile picture of the author Sam Young
    Hello Warrior's,

    In my view if i would have to choose a pen name or real name, I would have gone with a new brandable pen name or possible a name which could be turned later into a brand.

    A new pen name will give you excitement,confidence,etc and this way you could get a name which you always wanted

    Regards
    Sam Young
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  • Profile picture of the author heevyhivy
    Never underestimate the fact that name changing can create an entire new set of profits. There was a very interesting tv commercial for a UK company known as Norwich Union who renamed to Aviva, featuring all sorts of celebrities who admitted how they changed their names for success!
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  • Profile picture of the author philiptrav
    great replies, it makes you think a bit with all these different views on this subject.
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  • Profile picture of the author browie
    I may have made the mistake with Facebook but it's not a big deal i guess.
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    • Profile picture of the author InfoGirl
      What mistake did you make Browie ?
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  • Profile picture of the author dorianjohn425
    For facebook and twitter, I do used my real name

    But there are some accounts as well which I uses a pen name.
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  • Profile picture of the author stevenjacobs
    Banned
    I always use my real name, because it builds trust, and people know me, on a more personal basis.
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  • Profile picture of the author Steve Lim
    Hi, yes I am using my real name.. Because you can brand yourself in long term!
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  • Profile picture of the author AndhikaWijaya
    I use my real name and in Internet Marketing it's must.
    Coz you will sell your personal brand and people only remember your personal brand before your products. Just my opinion

    Warm Regards,
    Andhika Wijaya
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  • Profile picture of the author MikeTucker
    Branding and credibility... external things that can be built just fine with pseudonyms.

    To me the better question would be, especially when you are marketing your own products, whether or not you should be promoting something that you are not willing to put your name on? Seems kind of half-hearted.
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  • Profile picture of the author kalens99
    i do usually. I agree with everyone else that I want a brand, but I also want to be recognized for my work. I don't always, and sometimes use an abbreviated version of my name or something. Generally, though I want people to recognize who I am and what I have to offer.
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  • Profile picture of the author Monja
    I think - if you see this as a real business you should not be shy to use your real name or your brand connected with your real name. No need to be shy or embarrassed - this is a business like any other with hard work involved - just like in any other. And if you had a supermarket you'd tell your friends and family about it as well, wouldn't you?
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  • Profile picture of the author Carmelia Brown
    I use my real name, it gives me good SEO ranking that is a must for me to generate business online! If you are genuine, legitimate then you don't have to worry about using your name, in fact it benefits you
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  • Profile picture of the author travlinguy
    I don't. But if I were to start again, I would. I got my start online back in the prehistoric days (1996-97). Since the Internet was new back then I was naturally inclined to think that using one's own real name might attract undesirable attention from thieves and other mal types. And it's certain there are plenty of those about still, but... They're not really in a position to do one much harm as long as a body is careful.

    Even so, the habit of keeping my real name hidden has been pretty much ingrained. But here's a secret: one doesn't have to be all that smart or resourceful to find out all there is to know about travlinguy. Everything online is a matter of public record, even if one tries to keep secrets, which I do not. So it goes...
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  • Profile picture of the author Justin Jordan
    Originally Posted by philiptrav View Post

    Especially on Facebook and Twitter, do you open an account with your real name and then start marketing to all of your friends, even your old school friends, family etc? I just can't see myself doing this. If I get serious about doing some social networking or even creating Marketing websites etc I would prefer to be anonymous or create a new identity that I can always move on from one day.
    I do use my real name; I don't market to my friends and family. Or rather, I don't market my IM stuff to them - I do market my comicbook work on Twitter and Facebook.

    One of the reasons I use my real name is BECAUSE I can't walk away from it. This primarily protects me from the temptation to say stupid crap because I'm anonymous. Specific to marketing, it gives me extra motivation to do good work, because my name is out there and the internet never forgets.
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  • Profile picture of the author simonbuzz
    Banned
    Don't know about others but I use my own name for my Internet Marketing Business
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  • Profile picture of the author Aaron Salian
    Hey Philip,
    Yes I use My Real Name in the IM Niche. I do use pen names for other niches.

    I believe it builds trust in our subscribers when we use our own name.

    That way I can connect with them on a deeper level.

    But also using a Pen Name has been found to be very successful in the IM Niche.

    It's Just your personal preference.

    Hope this helps.

    Regard's,

    Aaron Salian
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  • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
    Originally Posted by philiptrav View Post

    Especially on Facebook and Twitter, do you open an account with your real name...
    Yes. Facebook actually requires that; it's in their terms of service.

    ...and then start marketing to all of your friends, even your old school friends, family etc?
    Um, no.

    Most of my friends aren't my customers. However, most of my customers are my friends.

    Think about that one for a while. We'll wait.

    I would prefer to be anonymous or create a new identity that I can always move on from one day.
    This is why customers don't like it when you do that.

    Customers like it when you have been around a while, and are going to be around a while.

    Setting it up so you can bugger off whenever doesn't sit well with them. They like it when your identity is tied down to, like, a real person. With a history.
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    • Profile picture of the author cashtree
      Originally Posted by CDarklock View Post

      Yes. Facebook actually requires that; it's in their terms of service.
      wouldn't want to upset facebook...since they value and respect my privacy so much :rolleyes:

      Tell me is spying on me after I log out their garbage site part of their TOS too?
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  • Profile picture of the author scsheldon33
    Me, I used both. Real name for my other niche and pen name for the others too.
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  • Profile picture of the author Christine2011
    For me, it really depends on the niche and products I am marketing. For instance, if I am marketing healthcare products, then I use my own name since I am a health professional anyway and I want to build my brand along with my name. Now, I also do dabble in other products that may seem a bit provocative or controversial. For those, I use a bunch of pen names.
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    • Profile picture of the author JROC777
      I think it really comes down to how many niches your involved in, Alexa made a great point of how you would actually lose cred if you proclaim to be an expert in everything. Same as in Hollywood stage names are everywhere and very common.
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  • Profile picture of the author Crystal84
    I use my real name for building a trust and good relationship with people.
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    • Profile picture of the author Alan Ashwood
      Originally Posted by Crystal84 View Post

      I use my real name for building a trust and good relationship with people.
      So - your family name's 84?

      I always use my real name. I've got nothing to hide.
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      Time for a cuppa.
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      • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
        Originally Posted by Alan Ashwood View Post

        So - your family name's 84?
        Common practice for younger people these days is "first name / birth year" for online services. Similarly, when I was much younger, real names were generally specified as "first initial / last name," so I was "CDarklock" everywhere. I don't leave off the first name to hide it, but because that's just not the way people are doing things.
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  • Profile picture of the author IMWinner
    It depends, I do use my real name especially when I have my portfolio as a writer and with my other IM businesses, but I also have my pen name used in other niches.
    As a writer, I use my real name to help build my reputation as a writer and establish credibility since clients will be looking for real people to do their job. I used my photos as well as the information to present the real me and as a writer. But I also have some niche which, like what other had said, used my pen name for using it. It's not that I don't like to use my real name on that niche, but I am just making sure that it won't be hacked and would be access by the other people since it already happened to me, when I once register to this service provider site but my email was used and I don't know how it accessed my account. Since then, I am using pen names for that but when it comes to the IM business, I am using my real name.
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  • Profile picture of the author REW72
    I use my real name with one exception, which is a female focussed site based in the US. As a UK based bloke I'm not the best persona for that market.
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  • Profile picture of the author Riggs
    I always use my real name. If I'm marketing via Facebook then I create a separate account under my real name so not to bother my close friends with products/services I know they wont be interested in.

    I might occasionally assume the role of another identity when I think a positive third-party testimonial will benefit the promotion of my product/service in it's early stages. Or I might pretend to be Batman when it's late and I'm feeling heroic.
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  • Profile picture of the author EFt
    I notice two things here:

    Everyone that uses their pic in their avatar uses their real name
    Females always use their real name
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    • Profile picture of the author Alan Ashwood
      Originally Posted by EFt View Post

      I notice two things here:

      Everyone that uses their pic in their avatar uses their real name
      Females always use their real name
      What - like Infogirl and Crystal 84 and Missterrak?
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      Now where did I put that pencil?

      Time for a cuppa.
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      • Profile picture of the author MissTerraK
        Originally Posted by Alan Ashwood View Post

        What - like Infogirl and Crystal 84 and Missterrak?
        Haha Alan! Love the sarcasm!

        Actually, MissTerraK is just a shortened version of my real name, Terra Kern. Obviously the "K" stands for Kern and I chose Miss for the surname as MadamTerraK makes it sound as though I run a brothel!:p

        Terra
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  • Profile picture of the author Nick Lawless
    Yep like many other people here I use my real name and picture.

    I do this because I'm proud to stand behind what I do and it helps the credibility factor. Including videos which prove you are who you say you are and that you're not some fly by the night scammer.

    Also good for branding as I am a unique selling point of my business - Your personality can be your unique selling point! People like to be entertained too right? Not everyone has me in their business and there is value in rare things (usually) hahahah!

    But seriously its good for branding, credibility, and trust.

    On the social media side of things... well I try not to "SELL" to anyone... rather provide value. I just hate the "car salesman" type hard sell!

    Nick
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  • Profile picture of the author theonegodfather
    no I actually use a fake name ... but I also have used my real name ;D
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    • Profile picture of the author Bentley74
      Great thread!

      Something I used to wonder about a LOT (when dabbling in a variety of niches).

      I guess I fall into the category of using both to a certain degree. I definitely don't hide my real identity, but in some cases (such as Twitter and Facebook) I use my nickname (my main branded identity) instead since it's something I want to emphasize.

      I do also have a "regular" Facebook account, but barely use it. I guess I really just don't have an interest in telling all my old kindergarten classmates what I'm involved in on a daily basis! lol

      I am very open with my real name (and share plenty of info about myself in general) on my main websites, in email communication etc - so I would say, in general, that I lean towards that approach.

      All depends on what you are trying to do - there is no "good" or "bad" here, the way I see it!
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  • Profile picture of the author Viramara
    I have a bunch of pen names for different niches. I just feel weird if one named person can "do-it-all" (a.k.a one real name for many different niches). because my niches are not so connected each other.
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  • Profile picture of the author Danny Cutts
    Yes I use my real name but on some of my sites I have a pen name :-)
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  • Profile picture of the author PatrickP
    Patrick is my confirmation name and P is the first initial of my last name. So it is my name just not my first and last names
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  • Profile picture of the author DireStraits
    Nah. I hide behind the drab identity of a fictitious 24-year-old, asocial bearded guy called Mike from a down-and-out northern city with an atrocious accent and dialect that can arguably only be "topped" by that of Brummies and Liverpudlians just to reduce the likelihood of attracting unsavoury stalker types.

    In reality I'm a hot, steamy, exotic seductress and former Miss World finalist who does IM part-time in-between working as a welder by day and an erotic dancer at night. But shhhh, don't want to blow my cover.
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    • Profile picture of the author myob
      Originally Posted by DireStraits View Post

      In reality I'm a hot, steamy, exotic seductress and former Miss World finalist who does IM part-time in-between working as a welder by day and an erotic dancer at night. But shhhh, don't want to blow my cover.
      Is that you, Fanney Ingvarsdottir or was it Lyudmila Yakimovich, Prorok Snezana, Romina Andonova, Andrea Kkolou, Laura Restrepo, Veronika Machova, Manasvi Mamgai, Asyifa Syafningdyah, or maybe Jessica Linley?

      Hey, it's me, Tim Boulenger, Hafiz Aghayev, Ramón Uyola, Giorgi Orbeladze, Michael Pichler, Paolo Cosi, Mark Spiteri, Predrag Pavlicic, Maksymilian Lewandowski, or Alper Aslanoglu.

      When one or the other of us saw one of you that night, it was unforgettable. I was beside myselves watching your big world cups shooting out sparks like a hottie arc angel.
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  • Profile picture of the author rsmllc
    I use my original name in IM industry. I feel pleasure when somebody calls me with my name in IM world
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  • Profile picture of the author PatrickP
    I believe if you think small, meaning you will forever be a faceless, nameless (except of course the 5,6 or 7 fake names you make up) forever doing IM marketing from behind a keyboard, a fake name is fine.

    If on the other hand you are a big thinker and can picture yourself on national TV, holding seminars etc, you are better off using your real name.

    Nothing wrong with putting limitations on yourself and thinking small just keep this in mind when you use a fake name when you start out. All those years of becoming an 'expert' and using various fake names may come back to bite you in the end. pun intended lol
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  • Profile picture of the author David Ogden
    Originally Posted by philiptrav View Post

    Especially on Facebook and Twitter, do you open an account with your real name and then start marketing to all of your friends, even your old school friends, family etc? I just can't see myself doing this. If I get serious about doing some social networking or even creating Marketing websites etc I would prefer to be anonymous or create a new identity that I can always move on from one day.
    I think you can see from the responses here you are in the minority it is vital that you use your true identity everywhere on the internet as part of your branding it is your unique marketing niche.

    It took me a little time to learn as when I started I used a nickname, If you use a false name and identity you are trying to hide something and people with think something is fishy.

    I am proud of my name, who I am and what I stand for and I love helping people to help themselves to turn their dreams into reality.
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    David Ogden an Entrepreneur at Markethive which uses a suite of free marketing tools to promote his opportunity. Contact:- Telegram @davidogden

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    • Profile picture of the author GoogleDreams
      I agree with the above. Stand proud of your name and build some reputation with people. Its the best way to go.
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  • Profile picture of the author GemFranco
    Banned
    There are some instances that you need to use real name. If you're on Amazon and Adsense it may be recommended to use real name.
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    • Profile picture of the author Alan Ashwood
      I gave my reply on this earlier, and this may be a little off topice, but -

      A few years ago I had a Home Maintenance business to top up our family income.

      For a while I used the name Ashwood's Home Maintenance. Business was very slow, and it just didn't get into a profitable position.

      Year three, I advertised a 'competetive business' alongside the original one. The new company soared past my old one, and I could hardly handle the enqiries for work. I marketed it in exactly the same way as the original, except for one thing - the name.

      I called it "Bojjitt, Rippoff and Leggitt". I know Brits will get it if they read it slowly, hope everyone else does.

      Just shows that 'inverse negative' marketing can work, and just a change of name can make a big difference. The great part was, that most of the enquirers had a sense of humour, and I was able to start some very good new working relationships form day one.

      By the way, when I moved from London, I sold the name and customer lists for a princely sum, and the new owner now 'franchises' the name in different areas.

      Funny folks, people

      Alan
      .
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      Now where did I put that pencil?

      Time for a cuppa.
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      • Profile picture of the author David Ogden
        Originally Posted by Alan Ashwood View Post

        I gave my reply on this earlier, and this may be a little off topice, but -

        I called it "Bojjitt, Rippoff and Leggitt". I know Brits will get it if they read it slowly, hope everyone else does.
        .
        Alan a great story. A friend of mine used to own a site called the Bitchers, Moaners and Whiners Club it was a great place to place new information as it was highly ranked in Google, if I posted there links were indexed within hours.

        It seems that things you do for a laugh cab make you money.
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        David Ogden an Entrepreneur at Markethive which uses a suite of free marketing tools to promote his opportunity. Contact:- Telegram @davidogden

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  • Profile picture of the author Adnan Firdous
    When it comes to usernames and all that, I use nothing but my name! Though I use my mother's name for payment processors (2CheckOut) and all those professional things! I am not 18 yet :p
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  • Profile picture of the author Fazal Mayar
    I use my real name but you gotta private your domain and etc. I doubt i can have a problem with personal stuff though, nobody has time for crap like this. Also i do it cuz i want people to remmeber me or thank me for a problem solved
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    Blogger at RicherOrNot.com (Make Money online blog but also promoting ethical internet marketing)

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  • Profile picture of the author Jamie Drew
    Pretty much what lots of others have said, yeah I do as it's part of the branding.

    Could you imagine that you went on to achieve some kind of greatness or guru like status in the industry, just for it to end up being attributed to "someone else", so to speak.

    I'd rather take the praise or criticism myself. It is me that's doing it after all.

    However, I wouldn't be annoyed or anything, or think that it's unethical if I found out a marketer I was following was using a pen name. I think it's totally okay, as long as you're providing real value to your market, then who can complain?
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  • Profile picture of the author PatrickP
    Didn't seem to hurt Mark Twain too much lol
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  • Profile picture of the author World Marketing
    Using your own name is important in Internet Marketing especially when marketing to people you know.
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  • Profile picture of the author PatrickP
    Yes Anthony Morrison sure does NOT want people knowing who he is in real life
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  • Profile picture of the author Alex Kage
    I use different names for different niches, I don't think people would like you if you are a Jack of all Trades.
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  • Profile picture of the author sirtiman
    I think still use my real name, I hope nothing problems surround me.
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  • Profile picture of the author MicahF7
    It does not make a difference at all and that's the truth. Just stick to one name. How would you know if frank kern's real name was something else? Tiger Woods' real name is eldrick or something like that, who cares!
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  • Profile picture of the author Aubaine
    I use my real name when dealing with fellow marketers or marketing products themselves. I think it's better to be who you are with people you plan to work with. But when it comes to the general public, or dealing with niches outside of IM, I use a pen name.
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  • Profile picture of the author Ernie Mitchell
    I made the decision a couple of years ago to go exclusively with my real name. I mean --- hey --- what is there not to like about an Ernie?

    Before doing so I made the mistake of naming my alter ego and several of my split personalities. After doing so I bought them all .com domains for their names and set up email accounts for them. That was a mistake because BillCoffee (,com) and WillyWinsome (.com) just to name a couple occasionally post scathing rebuttals to blog and forum posts I make. Be careful with the nom de plumes because they can easily get out of control.
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    • Profile picture of the author MikeTucker
      Originally Posted by Ernie Mitchell View Post

      I made the decision a couple of years ago to go exclusively with my real name. I mean --- hey --- what is there not to like about an Ernie?

      Before doing so I made the mistake of naming my alter ego and several of my split personalities. After doing so I bought them all .com domains for their names and set up email accounts for them. That was a mistake because BillCoffee (,com) and WillyWinsome (.com) just to name a couple occasionally post scathing rebuttals to blog and forum posts I make. Be careful with the nom de plumes because they can easily get out of control.

      LOL yes, yes, and yes.
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  • Profile picture of the author affordableweb
    I have multiple social media profiles, some in my real name and some in different markets. Personal branding is important for part of my business but secrecy is important for the rest
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  • Profile picture of the author jackwebson
    It's advisable to use our Real Name in IM for credibility and branding purposes. But there are also other niches in IM that its not necessary to use the real name.
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  • Profile picture of the author harrietfredge
    Hello philiptrav!

    Yes you do, most web domain registrars give you all the tools you will need to build your website. You will need your domain name because it is the address where you can be found.

    (?)
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  • Profile picture of the author brianboyer
    I always use my real name because it helps with the publicity....good and bad....but when it is bad, I use "Mr. Captain Crunch'n Berries". True story.
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  • Profile picture of the author eniggma
    I was hesitant at first about using my real name but I agree that it is an integral part of building your brand.
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  • Profile picture of the author clickfund
    I use my real name with my main marketing but pen name for article writing if going into different niche. I think can work either way is up to your preference
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    • Profile picture of the author PatrickP
      Originally Posted by x3xsolxdierx3x View Post

      I use my real name on my blog.
      Do you use your real name here on WF?




















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      • Profile picture of the author x3xsolxdierx3x
        I have no problem telling people it, if they ask.

        My username was devised awhile ago. Long before I got into IM, I was using it for various venues online, before I even though of the implications of having "x3xsolxdierx3x" as opposed to my real name.

        In retrospect, I don't know that I'd change it.

        People can see who I "really am" on my blog, although, I feel my forum posts/writing here are sufficient for people to have insight into my personality and what I'm all about.

        Besides that, I think some may underestimate the value of the approach of portraying at least some 'vagueness' in who you are on this forum, ESPECIALLY if you'd like others to visit other properties.

        Take, for instance, "Allen", the founder of this forum, who's profile picture is essentially a cartoon, with a cigar. Intrigued by his posts here, I scoured the internet (err...a Google search...) to find out who the man 'behind the cartoon avatar' REALLY was.

        Interestingly enough, there are many esteemed Warriors here who opt- for a cartoon picture, for one reason or another. I feel it lends to exploration, in the minds of others. It's enough of a visual to capture intrigue, and promote further discovery into who the person is beyond the forum.

        When you have a full name, and clear picture here, there's no need to explore further....at least, that's my opinion. Of course, you can talk to 100 different people and get 100 different opinions on the matter. I do still find it interesting that there are many highly successful Warriors who don't use their real names here, AND don't use their real picture.

        Originally Posted by PatrickP View Post

        Do you use your real name here on WF?




















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  • Profile picture of the author Arjjun Sarja
    Banned
    Yeah I do , Infact i am looking out to have a great reputation made for my user name , which is my real name , I have same name for my messengers , forum memberships etc..
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  • Profile picture of the author amanchem
    it is not nessasary that you use your real name and photo on facebook or any other social media site , it a proffesional methode to use those name and photo by which people give you attention . thats why many male people use female name and photo .
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  • Profile picture of the author topgold
    I have only used my Real Name for IM Live Marketing Chats because of their requests. Otherwise, pen names are the way to go for me, it has always been the best way for me to test my niches.
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  • Profile picture of the author slamp
    Banned
    sometime yes and sometime no.
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    • Profile picture of the author Azarna
      Whe I got divorced I changed my surname from my ex-husband's to one I just made up. At the time I felt that going back to my maiden name would be a step backwards.

      Stupidly the new name is hard to spell and pronounce, heh.

      So I now use my maiden name for eveything online. I will be changing my 'real life' name back to this as soon as possible, but at the moment, for specific financial reasons, it would not be wise of me to launch into the inevitable hassle that changing one's name brings (it was ages before until my bank managed to deal with my new name, lol).

      I am actually far more well known online by my avatar name from Second Life - which is also my middle name. I used this (as it is unique) for ages :-) As Second Life has been my main source of income for many years, this was technically my business name.

      The name I use here is my old World of Warcraft name, when I first signed up I didn't think very far ahead and just went for something simple, one word, and good chance it would not already be used here. But then again, I am not tryng to sell anyone anything under that name :-)
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      • Profile picture of the author Ram
        Just think how much more successful Tony Robbins, Will.I.Am, Diddy, David D'Angelo,Tom Cruise, C.S. Forester, Ann Landers, Heloise, and so many other would have been if they had read this thread ...

        Using a pen name is fine. You can brand it just as easily, build credibility using it just as easily. give a talk on stage under it just as easily, appear in the media under it just as easily. Many already do. And you can sell it - another person can pick right up under the same name - something many people would have a problem doing with their real name.
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  • Profile picture of the author Daniel Ragnarsson
    Using my real name on WF and Ezine, and some random catchy name for twitter/blog/websites etc (Real name on Facebook of course but I don't use that for marketing :0)
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  • Profile picture of the author DonMarketer
    There is a pro and con to this argument. In my opinion it's a matter of personal choice. The clear example of it is here in the forum. some of us use real names, others prefer to use pen names. Some times Pen names can be helpful in avoiding copycat stalkers! But I prefer to use my real name on my core business because my name is my brand...
    It all depends on our perspective based on what works for us.
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  • Profile picture of the author Chris Worner
    Nope. My real name is Bernie Madoff.
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  • Profile picture of the author pjwenterprise
    For me I use my real name, and my business name.

    If I buy a product I want to see the person behind the product and have an real feeling of delaing with a real person.

    It is also about building my own personal brand which is my company.
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  • Profile picture of the author affilorama-portal
    If you are in lots of niches it's a good idea to use pen names, as it does stretch credibility that the same individual is an expert in all of them! The purpose of using a pen name is to not have your real name associated as an expert on multiple niches. A new pen name for each niche is recommended. It would help if your pen names are easy to remember.

    Some problems do come with false representation like if you start adding "titles" that you don't have, ie Dr. titles or any other titles that require you to have to pass certain requirements to carry that title.

    It may also be best to avoid pen names that are identical, or even similar, to more famous names if you want to avoid confusion, and you probably also should stay away from anything that is copyrighted or trademarked, etc. Other than that, you can use whatever you want!
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  • Profile picture of the author Alex Kage
    Even the greatest people in Internet Marketing use more than one name for their products.
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