So, you’ve got a name like Alex Smith or Jamie Johnson—solid, dependable… and shared by what feels like half the internet. You know personal branding matters, but with a name that blends into the crowd, how are you supposed to stand out?
Good news: just because your name is common doesn’t mean your brand has to be. In fact, it gives you a unique opportunity to show that standing out has nothing to do with having a rare name—and everything to do with how you present yourself.
Whether someone else snagged your dream domain or your ideal social handles are taken (ugh, the struggle), don’t stress. There are plenty of smart, creative ways to rise above the noise—and make your name unforgettable.
Play Around with Name Variations
If your full name is everywhere already, remix it. Add a middle initial, flip your names, or go by a nickname. “Michael Johnson” could turn into “Mike A. Johnson,” “M. Alex Johnson,” or even “MJ Johnson.” Think of it like your digital stage name—something that feels like you but stands out just enough to be memorable and searchable.
And if your middle name isn’t quite cutting it, try adding your industry to your handle. Something like “MikeDevJohnson” or “DesignByMJ” makes your brand clearer while adding a creative twist.
Look Beyond the .com
Can’t get the dot-com version of your name? No biggie. These days, everyone from freelancers to startups are using creative domain extensions like .me, .design, .studio, or .photography. If you’re a developer, a .dev might even be perfect. The right domain isn’t just about availability—it’s about showing off what you do at a glance.
Plus, some of these alternate extensions can make your website name feel more like a call to action. For example, “WriteWithRachel.me” or “BuildWithBen.dev” feels inviting and intentional.
Add a Personal Touch
Try weaving your profession or location into your name. It’s simple but super effective. Something like SarahWilliamsWriter.com, AlexChenArt.com, or JohnDoeNYC.com instantly tells people who you are and what you’re about.
This approach also helps establish credibility—people know what to expect from your content. Plus, it makes it easier to recall when someone’s looking you up later.
Keep It Consistent Everywhere
Once you’ve picked your name variation, lock it down—everywhere. Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, TikTok, even GitHub if that’s your thing. Using the same handle or variation across platforms makes it easier for people to find you and builds a stronger, more cohesive brand.
And if your preferred handle is taken on a major platform, try small tweaks that still match your brand. Adding “the,” “its,” or “official” can do the trick without straying too far from your identity.
Polish Your Online Presence
Google yourself—what comes up? If it’s not you, that’s a missed opportunity.
Boost your visibility by creating content around your name and niche. Update your profiles regularly with relevant keywords. Join conversations in your field. The more active and on-brand you are online, the higher you’ll climb in search results.
Pro tip: Search engines love fresh, relevant content. So feed them well. Blog posts, social updates, even comments on other people’s content—it all adds up. Don’t be afraid to let your voice shine.
Create Content That’s All You
Want people to remember you? Say something worth remembering.
Write blog posts. Share videos. Start a newsletter. Host a podcast. Whatever your style, create and share original content tied to your name and area of expertise. It builds credibility, helps people get to know you, and makes your name stand for something more than just… being common.
And if writing isn’t your thing, consider visuals—designs, reels, or photos. Content isn’t one-size-fits-all. Play to your strengths, and your brand will naturally feel more authentic.
Consider a Catchy Pen Name
Still not feeling it? You don’t have to go by your birth name.
Many professionals adopt pen names or personal brand names that are catchier, easier to search, or just more “them.” Think of it like choosing a brand identity—something that reflects your vibe and makes an impression.
For example, a photographer named Emily Lee might go by “Em Lens” or “ShotsByEm.” Writers, designers, even tech professionals can benefit from a memorable alias that still feels personal.
No legal name change required—just a fresh start online.
Be Social (the Good Kind)
Engage with people! Reply to comments. Share others’ posts. Jump into discussions in your field.
The more you connect with others, the more your name shows up—and not just as a username, but as someone who adds value. You’d be surprised how far a thoughtful comment or a clever tweet can take you.
Networking isn’t just for conferences—it’s happening on Twitter threads, Reddit forums, LinkedIn posts, and even niche Facebook groups. Be visible, be helpful, and be consistent.
Let Your Value Shine
Remember, your name doesn’t define your brand—you do.
What do you bring to the table? What makes your work different? Highlight your skills, passions, and experiences in everything you share. When people associate your name with value, insight, or creativity, it becomes memorable—no matter how common it is.
Make your bios, your About page, and even your email signature speak to your strengths. Let people know why they should remember you.
Use Visuals to Set You Apart
Logos, colors, fonts—these aren’t just for businesses. Personal branding benefits big time from visual elements.
Pick a color palette. Design a simple logo or signature. Use the same style across your website, social channels, and portfolio. Visual consistency makes you more recognizable—and adds a polished, professional touch to your presence.
Even small touches like matching your profile pictures across platforms can make a big difference in how quickly people recognize and remember you.
Your Name, Your Brand, Your Rules
Having a common name might feel like a disadvantage, but it’s really just a blank canvas waiting for your unique brushstrokes. You’re not boxed in—you’ve actually got more freedom to define your brand from scratch, and that’s a powerful position to be in. With the right approach, your name can go from forgettable to unforgettable, just by how you show up online and what you choose to share.
So go ahead—experiment with style, explore your strengths, and be bold about what makes you different. Your name might be shared by thousands, but your story, your skills, and your voice? Those are 100% yours.
In the end, it’s not your name that gets remembered. It’s the personality, the value, and the passion behind it. That’s what people connect with. That’s what makes you stand out.