How to Change the WordPress User Display Name: A Comprehensive Guide
Changing your WordPress user display name is a simple yet important task that can enhance your site’s professionalism and improve user engagement. Whether you want to use your real name, a pen name, or a nickname, this guide will walk you through the steps to change your display name in WordPress, along with best practices to keep in mind.
Why Change Your User Display Name?
Your display name is how you will appear to your readers on posts, comments, and other areas of your WordPress site. A professional or relatable name can enhance your brand, build trust with your audience, and make your content more personal.
Step 1: Log into Your WordPress Dashboard
1. **Open Your Browser**: Start by launching your preferred web browser.
2. **Navigate to the Login Page**: Enter your WordPress login URL, which is typically `yourdomain.com/wp-admin`.
3. **Enter Your Credentials**: Input your username and password, then click the “Log In” button to access your dashboard.
Step 2: Access Your User Profile
1. **Go to Users**: In the left sidebar of your dashboard, hover over the **Users** option.
2. **Select Your Profile**: Click on **Your Profile** (or simply **Profile**), which will take you to your user settings page.
Step 3: Change Your Display Name
1. **Locate the Display Name Settings**: On your profile page, scroll down to find the **Display name publicly as** section.
2. **Choose Your Display Name**: Click on the dropdown menu to select from the following options:
– **Username**: Your username will be displayed.
– **First and Last Name**: Your full name will be displayed.
– **Nickname**: If you have entered a nickname, you can select it here.
– **Custom Display Name**: You can type a new name in the **Nickname** field if you prefer something unique.
3. **Save Changes**: After selecting or entering your desired display name, scroll down and click the **Update Profile** button at the bottom of the page to save your changes.
Step 4: Verify Your Changes
1. Check Your Posts: Go to the front end of your site and review one of your posts to ensure your new display name appears correctly.
2. Review Comments: If you leave comments on other posts, ensure your display name is also updated there.
Best Practices for Changing Your Display Name
1. Consider Your Audience: Choose a display name that resonates with your target audience. If you’re a business, using your brand name can be more effective than a personal name.
2. Maintain Consistency: If you have multiple platforms (like social media), ensure your display name is consistent across all channels. This helps in building a cohesive brand identity.
3. Keep It Professional: While it’s okay to use a nickname or pseudonym, ensure it remains professional, especially if your blog is related to your career or business.
4. SEO Considerations: If you want your name to be associated with your content for search engine optimisation (SEO), consider using your real name or a recognisable brand name.
5. Regularly Update Your Profile: If you change your focus, niche, or brand, remember to revisit your profile and adjust your display name accordingly.
Conclusion
Changing your WordPress user display name is a quick and straightforward process that can enhance your site’s professionalism and appeal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your content is presented in a way that resonates with your audience. Regularly reviewing your display name and adhering to best practices can significantly improve user engagement and brand recognition.