Pen Names, Pseudonyms and Personal Branding: A Writer's Dilemma at Associated Content

I started out with a pseudonym when I came to Associated Content. However, the purpose I came here changed after I started publishing. I came to promote books I'm writing.

I thought it would be fun to mention I publish under the pen name, Typing for Food, on the book covers. However, I am having so much fun at Associated Content, I'm not writing the books. We'll talk about that later. Right now, I'm following my passion.

Why Pseudonyms?

There are good reasons to use pseudonyms. In this electronic world, it's a challenge to keep information private. Fortunately, pseudonyms help, although I think pen names probably need branding and copyrighting.

The question is, how long does it take? And is branding an identity worth it? I don't love the pseudonym Typing for Food enough to copyright. I want to spend more time writing than in personal branding anyway. So for me, personal branding a pseudonym has to wait.

Pseudonyms for Protection

Another reason for pseudonyms is for protection when publishing controversial articles. People get agitated and send hate mail among other things. I had a cyber-stalker at one time which is a headache. And Google makes it too easy to find information. I googled a relative and found the amount (which is a large sum) for property he purchased, his bank and other information.

I also write humorous articles about my family. It's not fair to have their identities at large because of my writing. This is especially true since radio stations across the country pick up these articles. These are valid reasons for a pen name.

So the next choice is using a pseudonym that sounds like a real name. However this is a compromise so there's no edge to the branding identity. But, is it the brand that opens doors or the writing? I think karma and being at the right place at the right time is as powerful as a branding identity. And if needed, rebranding is an option which is quite often successful.

Real Name, Real Name Sounding Pseudonym or Nom de Guerre?

So, instead of pseudonyms, pen names, nom de guerre, nom de plume and branding, maybe it's easier to go with your real name. You're probably less likely to run into legal problems or social problems. Anyway, I won't tell you if this is a pseudonym or real name. I will tell you it's a change and to all of my wonderful subscribers, I introduce Deborah Oakes, the writer formerly known as Typing for Food. Now, what am I going to use for an avatar?

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Source:
http://www.last-names.net/

Pen Names, Pseudonyms and Personal Branding: A Writer's Dilemma at Associated Content copyright 2009