After years, yes seriously, of deliberation, I’ve changed my online persona into me. My real name, the real me. Call it a rebrand or even debrand, but it feels like the right time.
Welcome to the next phase of my online journey!
This decision is something I’ve pondered over for a while. The implications of a rebrand and a URL change a far-reaching and not something that can be done on a whim.
Timing your rebrand;
- You’ll need to consider carefully if it’s the right time for you? Changing your URL will affect your rankings, online presence, and possibly income.
- Take your time, choose something that really feels like you.
- You know it is the right time for a rebrand when what you will gain from changing feels more aligned with who you are than staying the same.
I’d never felt completely happy with OFS, but the momentum gathered and I felt foolish to try and slow it. I want to be me, multifaceted and authentic.
Steps for a blog rebrand;
- Buy the URL/domain name you want (I bought susanearlam.com over a year ago!)
- Bide your time (see above) don’t rush in.
- Research and prepare, I found this post particularly useful.
- Claim your social handles. I’m lucky that my name is fairly uncommon so this wasn’t an issue for me, although I’m still arguing with Facebook about a name change.
- Get an updated photo of you for all your bio/avatar/profiles, because you’re changing, you need to be more consistent and recognisable. The fabulous Alexander Ward did mine.
- If you’re confident you are able to do the switch yourself then go for it. For me and eight years worth of work, images and links, I got an expert in; Jo at GeekFairy.
- Shout about the changes you’ve made and what you’ve accomplished. Send out emails, share on social media, write a blog post (hello blog post) and send a newsletter.
I wanted to say a huge thanks, I know some of you have been with me for the eight years so far, here’s to the next eight!
Also, I’d love to ask you a favour?
I’ve been nominated for the Best Written Blog category at the Amara’s. You might remember I received Highly Commended a few years ago (details here).
This category is so close to my heart and I’d be thrilled to get through to the next stage and go down to London for the awards bash. Please vote for me here, and thank you!
All photography in this post is by Alexander Ward
susan earlam ~ horror author 
I would love your input