In the World Wide Web, anonymity makes the browsing experience more fun. Part of what makes surfing the web amusing is that people really do not know where you are going or where you’ve been (well, not entirely). That said, privacy issues keep cropping up when it comes to the internet.
Google, for instance, permits its Google Plus users to use an alias. These pseudonyms can be anything a client wishes to be known as. However, when Google mounted its social tool a few years ago, it wanted real names to build its platform.
Google ultimately abandoned this idea (owing to the uproar over it) in their terms of service. Instead, there are limits to the number of times one can switch their name during a given time duration. Great for those who refuse to disclose who they really are.
So what really is there to consider when using a real name on a Google account? Obviously, there are advantages and disadvantages to using a real identity. Here is a brief list of the pros and cons so you can make up your mind. (Learn How to Write a Google Anonymous Review)
Pros If I Use My Real Name on Google
Real Names Give Credibility to a Brand or Business
It is advantageous to use a real name if the intention is to build a brand or a business. People tend to take things with a grain of salt when aliases are used. Real names convey the message that a company means serious business.
One Comes Across as Professional
In business, your name is everything. Popeyemate or Girlygurl might sound cute, but they are names that do not exactly exude professionalism and expertise. A platform where real names are used will appear more credible to a professional audience than a platform where monikers are the norm.
Using a Real Name Means Accountability
When one links his work to his real name, they are more ready to take on the consequences (or benefits) of what they say and do. One will think twice before saying or doing anything online, so chances are real-name users will be more prudent of their online behavior and not give in to impulses.
Aliases and Pseudonyms Lose Relevance
One can certainly outgrow a pseudonym. For instance, a name like Studhunk or CampusCrush that was amusing to someone in college might not be so appealing for a married man or a woman. Sure, one can adopt a new alias, but that would mean losing all the branding efforts previously done.
Trust
They that use a real name will be perceived as more trustworthy. When a person offers a real name, people will know they are dealing with a real person that does not need an alias to hide behind. (Learn How to Delete Photos From Google Maps)
Consistency
Real-name users also have a more consistent online identity. Those who use their real name on most social media sites can maintain their professional identity. It is also easier for people to find you on the web.
Cons If I Use My Real Name on Google
Privacy issues.
If someone is on Google, but with no intention of building a brand or business, privacy and security are more of a priority. It really is of no benefit to using a real name. Privacy and security are a real concern for exposing real identities online, as they could be used illegally.
Create a Buffer
Create a distinction between your online self and your real identity. One is not obligated to share everything online. Many people have opinions that they share by posting, but these are personal views not associated with their business or professional lives.
Keep Stalkers at a Comfortable Distance
Please make no mistake about it, there are many weirdos out there, and they are even weirder on the internet. An alias at least provides some amount of safety. It acts as a barrier from these zany people. At any given point, an alias can be terminated, and a new one created.
Digital Footprints Stay On
Everything one does online stays linked to you for a very long time. If you did or said things that were embarrassing or misrepresented who you are, an alias will help you from being boxed into a corner. Otherwise, each time you have searched, everything you have ever published online is there for all and sundry to see.
You Are Open to Online Bullying
The Internet, because of the anonymity available, can be a meaningful universe. If one uses her real name, she leaves herself open to bullying. People will attack just because they disagree with your point of view, Make fun of how you look, or ridicule you just because they are envious of your success. It happens.
What Is In a Name?
By all means, one can choose to keep his identity private. If they will build a personal brand on Google or create a blog with niche content, the pros and cons above are things someone might want to consider. (Learn How to Find my Google Reviews)
Whatever it is one intends to make of a Google account, it is worth weighing beforehand if one will use a real name with a Google account or a pseudonym.
It will all come down to what one is looking to accomplish. In most online communities, usernames will work well. However, if one has a good reason (such as establishing a business, brand, or company), real names could be the better option.
