In a world where we all have a personal brand, making the decision to change your professional name can be a daunting task. Whether you’re changing a nickname, morphing your professional persona, or simply updating the visual and verbal cues associated with your name, this decision may not be an easy one to make.
In this article, well explore the primary things you need to know when considering changing your professional name.
Changing Your Professional Name
Deciding to Change Your Name
The decision to change your professional name is a personal one, and it may require careful consideration. Some people decide to change their name because they feel their current name doesn’t accurately reflect their professional identity, causing a professional identity complex.
Others may choose to do so for professional reasons. If you’re thinking about changing your professional name, it’s essential to identify the primary reason behind your decision.
If your current name carries personal value, you’ll need to consider the implications of changing it. However, if your reasons are professional, you’ll need to consider how this will put you in a better position to achieve your career goals.
Morphing Your Professional Persona
Once you’ve made a decision to change your name, it’s time to update your professional persona. If you’re changing your nickname, make sure you choose a name that aligns with your professional goals.
For example, if your nickname is Jessie, don’t change it to Jessi as it doesn’t convey the same level of commitment as Jessica. The visual and verbal cues associated with your new name should be consistent to solidify your brand identity, something vital to establish and maintain in today’s competitive job market.
Ensure that the email address, business cards, and social media profiles are all updated with your new professional name.
Having a Social Presence
During the transition period, it is essential to maintain a strong social media presence. Sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter allow for an easier name change and keep your professional contacts informed of the changes as they occur.
These platforms can also help you control the way new and existing professional contacts refer to you. Once you’ve made the transition to your new professional name, it is vital to continue using these platforms to maintain your professional brand and increase your online presence.
Potential employers often search for candidates through social media, so it’s important to present a consistent, professional identity.
Being a Stickler
It’s essential to be vigilant about reminding colleagues and contacts about your name change until they become custom to it, particularly for people in your workplace and those close friends who are coworkers. Printed materials, signing official documents, and personal email signatures, are all areas where these verbal reminders come in handy.
Being a stickler for your professional name ensures that your brand identity remains strong, and professional integrity is maintained.
Importance of Professional Identityto Professional Identity
Your professional identity is how people come to know you and what they remember about you in a professional context. It is a crucial aspect of building your career as it offers the foundation for all professional relationships.
Choosing Your Professional Identity
The way you present yourself plays a critical role in how others perceive you. Selecting the right professional identity could give you the edge needed in making a lasting, positive impression.
Your professional identity should be carefully chosen and reflect your strengths, abilities, and aspirations.
Galvanizing Change
Once you’ve chosen your professional identity, it’s imperative to own it and commit to it. Establishing a professional identity is not an overnight process.
It requires time, effort, and consistent application. By consistently applying your professional identity across different contexts and platforms, others will follow suit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, changing your professional name and establishing a clear professional identity can differentiate you from the competition in a crowded job market. Remember to avoid personal biases by approaching this process strategically and thoughtfully.
Once you’ve gone through the initial process of changing your name, it’s essential to maintain and consistently apply your professional identity to remain competitive and make a lasting impression in your industry. In todays competitive job market, your professional identity carries a lot of weight, and changing your professional name and solidifying your brand identity can differentiate you from the competition.
It is important to carefully consider the implications before changing your name and to choose a name that aligns with your professional goals. Once established, it’s essential to consistently apply your professional identity across different contexts and platforms to make a lasting impression on potential employers and colleagues.
By owning and committing to your professional identity, you can take charge of your career and establish yourself as an authoritative and trustworthy professional in your industry.