It’s time to show them who you are! As designers, we understand the importance of creating a strong presence. We also understand how integral social media has become in our lives. It offers a unique opportunity to showcase our creativity. It enables us to connect with clients and collaborators from around the world. One key of establishing a cohesive identity is maintaining consistent social media handles. In this article, I will share insights I’ve gathered throughout my career to help you create and maintain consistent social media handles to enhance your brand.
Embrace Your Uniqueness
Before diving into the world of social media handles, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your brand identity. As a designer, you have a unique creative vision that sets you apart from the crowd. Reflect on your unique design style, values, and audience. What makes your approach or style special? This foundation will guide your handle choices and ensure consistency across platforms. For me, it was remembering that I come from a family of intelligent, hard working black men who used ingenuity to take care of their families. I learned that my name should mean something when it is spoken. So, what is it for you. Remember, there’s only one you. Let that guide which social media platforms to use. Quality over quantity is a great way to think about it.
Choose The Right Name
Your social media handles act as your digital calling card—a name that represents you or your brand across various platforms. Let’s make sure it’s unforgettable! Take, for example, @CalvinRobertson. When I was in college, I started my transformation to become a professional. Goodbye C.J. (my childhood moniker, growing up a Calvin Jr.) and hello Calvin. By incorporating my first and last name, I created a handle that is personal, professional, and recognizable. As I learned about new social media platforms that would add to my professional presence, I setup an @CalvinRobertson on that platform. And this rule applies to vanity names and business names alike. I did the same thing for my design operation @Obcidion. Consistency across platforms is critical to building a strong and cohesive brand presence.
Research to Ensure Availability, then Secure Handles
Research is crucial to ensure your chosen handle is available on the social media platforms you wish to use. Start by checking each platform individually. Or you can use online tools that simplify the process. Once you’ve identified available handles, secure them across all relevant platforms. This will help maintain consistency while avoiding confusion. For example, securing @CalvinRobertson on many platforms ensures my personal brand remains unified and discoverable. Plus, it is much easier to tell people, “Follow me at at “CalvinRobertson” on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.” But sometimes, it’s difficult to secure your exact name across many platforms. If that happens, get creative! To create consistency across platforms, you may have to alter your handles.
What’s Your (Domain) Name?
In addition to social media handles, it’s worth considering domain name availability. Having a domain name that matches your social media handles can further strengthen your online presence. Imagine having a domain name like CalvinRobertson.com as your own design hub! A consistent domain name strengthens your brand’s credibility and makes it effortless for your audience to find you. Make sure your preferred domain is available and register it to solidify your online presence. Even if you are not ready to create a website right now, secure the domain name anyway. Hold it until you are ready to create a website. In the meantime, have your domain name forward to your favorite social media profile. I cannot stress enough how powerful it is to own your own name as a domain name.
Optimize Your Profile
Consistency extends beyond the handle itself. To create a cohesive brand experience, optimize your social media profiles across platforms. In other words, “you got to coordinate!” Select a professional profile picture and cover image that align with your design aesthetic. Use colors, fonts, and visual elements that represent your brand. By maintaining a unified look and feel, you’ll establish a memorable brand identity that captivates.
Cross-Promotion and Linking
Leverage the power of cross-promotion by linking your social media profiles together. This allows your audience to navigate seamlessly between platforms. It’s a simple method to encourage engagement and increase exposure. For example, add links to your LinkedIn profile, website, Twitter profile, or other relevant online profiles. By connecting your online profiles, you make it easy for people to explore your work
Adapt and Evolve
The digital landscape is ever-changing, and you should evolve with it. Platforms may introduce new features or policies that require adjustments to your profile. Regularly review and adapt your social media handles, profiles, and online presence to stay current. Stay updated on trends and user preferences. Adjusting your strategy when necessary ensures that you remain relevant and engaging.
Engage and Network
Consistent social media handles not only help establish your brand but also make it easier for others to find and engage with you. You’ll make way for serendipity. So, start leaning in! Engage with other designers. Join industry communities. Take part in discussions. Follow relevant accounts. Expand your professional circle. Doing these things can create opportunities and increase your visibility within the broader community.
My hope is that this article puts a new twist on the phrase “making a name for yourself.” Creating consistent social media handles is no joke! It will take some time to do, but it is worth it. It’s a powerful strategy to enhance how you show up as a designer. You must embrace your unique identity. Choose handles that reflect your personality and coordinate them across platforms. Create a cohesive visual aesthetic, keep your profiles optimized, and adapt as your craft evolves.
Remember, consistency is key to building trust. Consistently embrace collaboration and engage your community. Don’t make it hard for people to find you. So, take the time to ensure your social media handles align with your brand, and watch it grow!
Connect with me on LinkedIn. I can’t wait to see what you design!