Doreen, the problem is that there really is no way to quantify how much it has hurt you, but I guarantee you it has…namely with those people you could have converted to fans and readers. Every time you post on twitter you are what we call in sales, “top of mind.” I will go ahead and blog about this today to answer your question. Don’t be discouraged, but I do feel that you must fix this problem or you are making far more work for yourself. Your name MUST be up with your handle. If you have already done this, then no problem (but you aren’t, then, using solely a handle). I strongly prefer using the name that will appear on your books, but I’ll explain why today in the blog. Thanks for the comment, :D.

I’ve built my following slowly and organically and I can now feel its strength. This will undoubtedly help me as I launch my next book.

Regarding a “handle” for a published author: I have been writing professionally for more than 15 years (mostly periodical work until recently) and loved having the handle “wizard of words” connected to my work. It’s always been on my website, my biz cards, my stationery, etc. and most people have told me it is memorable and distinctive. I brought that persona forward with me into the blogosphere and Twitter. Not sure if it was the right thing to do, but my name is also highly visible, so I don’t think it’s hurt me.

Actually, if you are a writer wanting to use social media to build a platform, the only acceptable handle is the name you intend to have on the cover of your book. But, yes, I do get attached to people via screen names. The problem is, though, if you are a writer, I cannot walk into a B&N and ask for “Klondikebabe’s” newly released book, “Dogs of Alaska” even if she has spent the past 8 months on Twitter getting me excited about her book.

Thanks, Molly for taking the time to comment.

Yes, but in that niche one needs to find the people who have the greatest influence. An avid historical fiction fan who has a reputation for good posts is just as valuable of an asset as another well-known historical writer…maybe even more so because this person represents the “readers/lovers of historical fiction.”