The dilemma: Use your real name when modeling or create an
alias?
Let's start with the premise that whatever your direction, exercise consistency. Remember: You're creating a product or brand, said
product being you the model. If fans and industry people can't find that
product on the store shelves, your marketing department gets failing grades.
If you do one shoot with your real name, the next with an
alias and the following shoot with yet another alias, you're confusing the
matter. Make your choice and be consistent.
Why do you need to use an alias name?
1. Designer Name
Like Superman villain Mister Mxyzptlk, what happens if you
have a name that is difficult to spell and difficult to pronounce; or at the
other end of the scale, a too common name lost in a sea of similar names?
Sometimes it's just easier to design a name that works,
that's unique and that stands out.
2. Privacy
As a fitness model, your product is your physique. In this business,
a sexy hardbody sells. Showing off that hardbody might entail minimal clothing.
You may be fine with that image, but there will always be
people far less accepting of this than you are. An alias in the model world
gives you an extra layer of privacy in the real world.
3. The Future
When you're 21, the future might seem, well, somewhere off in
the future. It's not of immediate concern.
The person you are today might be quite different from the
person you'll become five years from now. Right now, it's great to be in the
spotlight, but what happens if you need anonymity in the future?
One of the major reasons why the web is a superior marketing
tool versus print is that once you publish something on the web, it keeps
working to bring you exposure long after a print piece meets its end in the
recycle bin. Excellent when you want the exposure, but should you ever decide
to change directions, your published web material awaits discovery by anyone
curious enough to Google your name. Again, a model alias provides you with that
extra security should you decide to take a different direction with your life.
4. The Past
Everyone has past transgressions, whether small or large.
Maybe you don't want people to know about your past. Or
perhaps you don't want people to know about someone you associated with in your
past. Again, a model alias can provide a layer of security between you and something
in the past better left forgotten.
5. Job And Career
Not every work environment is welcoming to a lean, muscular,
bikini-clad model and competitor. If a Google search connects model you with
work you and puts your livelihood at risk, perhaps it's time to consider a name
change.
Making The Change
If you're unsure, start by using your first name only as
your model alias. Better to err on the side of caution than start with your
real name and then attempt to undo what's been done. Keep in mind that once
your name is out there, it's there for the world to see.
If you compete, you can create a model alias and compete
under that name. From a marketing standpoint, this is the ideal strategy as it's
going to give you maximum exposure and name recognition for your brand. Again,
this speaks to consistency.
If you're going to create a model alias, you need to put
some thought into your name. Look at it from the perspective of naming a new
product. You want something easy to remember and easy to pronounce. Although Buff Hottie might work for a nickname, it's likely
not a good choice for a model name. Avoid cutesy sounding names.
Once you've selected potential candidates, the next step is
research. Google your name and make certain someone else hasn't already made it uber popular. As important, make sure the
corresponding URL is available so that you can purchase the domain name to go
with your model alias.
There you have it - a new name and product waiting for you
to take it to market.
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