Readers always write . . .
Hi, Michael–
I attended your great Internet marketing seminar recently.
You suggested that we protect our names and build our brands on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin and YouTube in order to improve Google search results.
I really need to do this because a cartoonist in Florida named “Bruce Beattie” has a stranglehold on a Google search for my name (and his).
Here’s my question: Should I start using my middle name (George) or middle initial? Do you think this would help clients and other people find me online? Or would be better to continue sharing my identity with the cartoonist?
Bruce Beattie, President
http://www.FCEServices.com
Dear Bruce,
I checked up on the guy in Florida and apparently, he’s been “Bruce Beattie” for quite a while. The problem now, of course, is that you’re KEENLY AWARE he is Bruce Beattie and so are people who are searching for you online.
Unfortunately for you, the cartoonist happens to be published in newspapers across the fruited plain, which means all the papers are promoting him online and that’s why he’s kicking your ass up and down the search engine rankings.
To make matters worse, your alter-ego is apparently a Republican, which is also bad news, if your politics lean left.
Your intuition is correct, Bruce. Adding your middle initial to your official (brand) name is an awesome game changer that will help you protect your identity. You’ve got everything to gain and little too lose by becoming known as “Bruce G. Beattie.” Just be sure to change everything that has your name on it, including business cards, Web pages and of course, the user name on your social media profiles.
Remember, when it comes to social networking, it’s nice to share, but never share your identity.
Best,
Michael
www.MichaelAngeloCaruso.com
Note: Attend Michael’s teleclass to learn more about how to build your brand online. More information at http://www.michaelangelocaruso.com/features/social-media-marketing-markting/.
Tags: building a brand, facebook, linkedin, marketing on facebook, michael Angelo Caruso, online marketing, Social Media, teleseminar, twitter, youtube
