By Renee Zung and Danielle Beauparlant Moser
Is your name is confusing the people with whom you’re communicating? If so, it’s not too late to fix it. In other words, will the Real You please stand up?
It is common especially for women to change their name, but you do not want to be lost in the transition. For job seekers it is important to keep your name consistent across all marketing material: Resume, LinkedIn Profile, business cards, Personal Websites and email correspondences.
Recently, we interviewed 4 women who were in the midst of a name change. It was extremely confusing to find emails based on their different names on their resume or LinkedIn profile versus email. And knowing which was the “OLD name -- or one from which name they WERE moving” to “the NEW name or which they PLANNING to use.”
The worst part? We almost missed emails scheduling one of them for an interview because we didn’t recognize the name on the email. With dozens of candidates for the role, it was a mistake on our end, as the decision maker, but it would have cost her the opportunity.
The Golden rule: make it easy on the people with whom you’re communicating. Use a name that helps them identify your communications.
Let’s take a for instance. If were you Hannah Gonazalez, but are now divorcing or getting married and your new name will Hannah Millet, then during job search and the transition, use both names so your audience knows it’s you. Use Hannah Gonzalez Millet on all your documents, profiles, email address, etc. Keep your name consistent during the change especially if you are a job seeker.
This is also true if you go by a nickname. For instance your name might be Richard but everyone knows you at “Butch” on all correspondences such as your resume, profile, and email you need to use both. Richard “Butch” Smith
When it comes to your email, make it easy for hiring managers and recruiters to identify you. Use your name; keep it simple.
Your name is your brand. Keep it consistent and make it easy on decision makers to know who you are so that you do not lose out on any potential opportunities.
