Tips for Using Your Legal Name vs. Nicknames in Job Searches

If you are a person who is better known by a nickname than your legal name then you may feel a bit conflicted when you’re creating documentation to submit during your job searches. There are no current guidelines available to decipher what name you should use, but there are tips out there that can steer you in the right direction. So if you’ve been confused by what’s appropriate when choosing the name to use, it’s good to consider the following … You Don’t Have to List Your Legal Name Most people think that they have to list their legal name when creating their resume and cover letter, or sending in a job application. This is not true. You can actually use the name that you would like to be known by professionally. For instance, if you have an uncommon first or last name that is difficult to pronounce, you may either be used to shortening it or adding phonetic assistance that makes pronunciation simpler. For example, if your name is Theophilus, there’s nothing wrong with using the nickname Theo for your first name. And if you have a unique last name that may be challenging for some to pronounce, like Nguyen, you might add the phonetic spelling (nuhWEN) so that the person contacting you won’t be more concerned with how to pronounce your name than offering you an interview. Be Consistent with Your Name Choice Whatever name you decide to go with, it’s important that you use it consistently throughout your career (unless you get married or choose to legally change your entire name). As you begin to elevate throughout your profession and begin building a brand, you want your name to follow you and eventually precede you (along with your stellar professional reputation). This means if you choose to go with a nickname that sounds nothing like your legal name (i.e. if you go by your middle name), it’s good to stick with it so people will always know they’re talking about the same person. The same rules apply for email address, voicemail messages, file names and social media profiles. Feel Comfortable with Your Decision The name that you choose to use during your job search and beyond should be one that you feel comfortable with. You don’t want to choose a name that you never use then forget to answer to it when someone calls you by it. If your name is Elizabeth but since birth you’ve been called Lizzy, by all means you can use it. If you want to include both names, you can try Elizabeth (Lizzy) Brown. The only thing that experts suggest is that you don’t completely change your name for your job search. You need to be traceable for background checks, so if you’ve suddenly changed your entire name (legally), it’s good to note your previous name as you make the transition. It’s good to know that you can use more than your legal name while in pursuit of a job, as well as in your career. As long as you keep your name consistent (and the name is professional-friendly), you should have no problems using the name you most identify with.