what do you thing about using pen names in online business? it can make some things simpler … you don’t need to worry about getting people confused by seeing you operating in different niches, also separating business and personal social network profiles from different niches, or preventing to my whole life, business and stuff being google-able would make me feel better… but if i’d like to respond to people with email and communicate with others … and sell my own stuff … doesn't it make thinks more difficult technically? what about paypal accounts, emails etc? how does it work? always
When I am directly selling a service or product made by me, I think I have to use my real name. However, when I am creating blogs, websites, web 2.0's, etc - I will then use a pen name so my real name isn't all over the Internet publishing info on random niches. When it comes to social media, I always use my real name or I change my real name slightly.. with some niches, I don't really want my friends and family knowing everything I write about. I have multiple twitters, but only one FB and its with my real name. When it comes to business, people will see my name on PayPal when I send an invoice or money request, so it doesn't make sense to lie about my real name. I'm too afraid people will think something suspicious if they find out I used a false name.
Depends that I'm doing. In many cases it's practical. In some instances? It's definitely wise to use a pen name. The notion of identity theft alone is mind boggling. (Identity theft is a billion dollar problem in USA alone, and can be quite frustrating to resolve on an individual level). And do you really want your crazy high school friends following you around on the Internet? No thanks.
Nothing wrong for using a pen name for all the reasons already mentioned. It's also makes a business more salable if it's not all about you. Ron