An interaction on one of the SocNets led me to think of how your online name, handle, or pseudonym can be branded.  Many may remember our first introduction to personal wireless communications some 30 odd years ago via CB Radio.  Interactions went something like:

Breaker good buddy, a Kojak with a Kodak waitin’ with Evil Knievel on exit 20.  Catch ya on the flip side in 20.  Stopin’ at the choke-n-puke for some go-go juice.

Ah, what quaint communications indeed.  The CB Radio was the cell phone of its day, and the use of the device made you feel a little like a DJ, so I’ll cut it a bit of slack.  At least conversations went something like that – hey I was 10, I can’t remember exactly.  At any rate, it was the first time I had heard of a “handle” and it was all the rage (along with the first go-round with bell bottoms and corduroy) to come up with something outrageous to call yourself.

Here some thirty plus years later, many people still choose to use a pseudonym online in place of their real name.  While I highly recommend using your own name, I do understand the reasons for not using it.  Anonymity is desirable in addition to being recognized.

The point of this post, is that whatever name you choose to use online, I recommend keeping consistent in name, and the spelling of it.  It doesn’t matter if you prefer a pseudonym or your name, but stick to it everywhere you go on the Internet.

Also, if you think into the future you will realize that your pseudonym may follow you into many professional endeavors.  Realizing this, you may want to think about a more professional, or at least professionally acceptable pseudonym to use in crafting your brand.

After all, do you want your personal brand to appear as Your Chosen Brand or “rubber ducky”.

10-4 Good Buddy!

Technorati tags: Personal Branding, Online Handles, Pseudonym, CB Radio