Selecting a Good Email Address

Dear Deb:

What is a good moniker to use for my new email address?  I keep reading that I need a professional email name, but I am not sure what that means.  I know the obvious things to avoid, but what sounds good?  I am completing my Master of Science in Communications soon.  I am not tied to any particular industry.  I have a common name, so if I use my name, it will likely need to have numbers mixed in.  Suggestions?

Thank you!

Mary

Dear Mary:

I am sure you know this already, but I will share this for the sake of our other readers.  Avoid any email user identities that are silly, sexy, superficial, or controversial.  In other words, things such as “No1GiantsFan,” PiscesRule,” or “MiamiVixen” will not do. 

What is a good professional name?  First/last name and first initial/last name are classics. If your name is taken, you can add a middle initial. Or try, your first initial, middle initial, and last name. Try reversing the order of names/initial.  Don’t add your birth year as that is something you don’t need to disclose.  Another option is to get an email address from your college. Many schools offer email addresses to their alumni.  With a lower number of accounts, you have a better chance of securing some version of your name.

Referencing your occupation can be tricky. You don’t want to come across trite with something like “ProTalker.” Also, you may not want to pigeon hole yourself by referencing your occupation.  Sharing elements of your physical address in in an email is discouraged for security reasons.  If you have more questions about your job search, feel free to contact me.

Good luck with your email selection!

Deb