Last time at Affiliate Summit East (2009 New York) I learned about branding. (From a session called “Get Noticed Fast” with Steph, Jennifer, Mike & Trish) So I created a brand for myself as DavidDOchoa. I didn’t have a catchy niche type of a name – moreover couldn’t think of one. Nothing bad about branding myself as DavidDOchoa, as I am always me no matter where I go.
Now, only after six months I am having some second thoughts on the matter. While listening to Jim Kukral’s motivational session, I got an idea. No, it was more than one, but I wish to share a certain one. While I was writing notes and getting motivated to start pod-casting in Spanish (with Stephanie), I recalled an incident not long ago on DailyBooth.
On dailybooth.com I uploaded a picture of me wearing a new black button up shirt with a red (zipper) tie. Since I have extreme pigmentation under my eyes, it is said that I resemble a raccoon (or a panda bear). Well, the picture goes on the live stream and I got a couple of mockers posting pictures of a raccoon as their reply.
Red is my color
I laughed it off and just kept making fun of myself, with them; so it effectively didn’t bother me. I have dealt with this all of my life, and I am just tired of it ruining my confidence and self-esteem. I want to take ownership of my (perceived) “Negative” and use it to my advantage.
So things brings me to the topic of re-branding. The first thing that popped into mind was The Ugly Affiliate, then naturally The Raccoon Affiliate, followed closely by The Panda Affiliate. This way, if someone were to comment on the superficial appearance or make a joke of some kind, it would be reinforcing my brand. (any negative publicity is good publicity)
I want to ask my affiliate friends what they think of this idea and leave a comment or a suggestion. I am sometimes too clever when choosing a domain name, that I miss my target audience, so I need your help y’all. Here are some names I am considering:
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CoonSky
Raccoon Marketing (the raccoon marketer)
Affpanda
Freaky Aff (Affiliate)
Dumpster Marketing
blooface
blackeyed affiliate
daily punch aff
affiliate facade
fighting aff
The list could go on and on. Okay, now it’s your turn!!
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{ 12 comments… read them below or add one }
Just don’t get a raccoon tattoo. http://gregwhoffman.blogspot.com/2007/07/internet-marketing-gorilla-gets-branded.html
Greg Hoffman´s last blog ..
I definitely think that there is something to be said for taking what you have and going with it. When I started SR, I didn’t think of myself as “sunny.” But as I started attending Affiliate Summits and people were saying that I had a “sunny” look, I decided to push it further by changing my usernames from my old one (indylaw99–associated with being a lawyer) to “sunshinetricia.” Now I feel like people see me and attach it to me and remember me a little because of it.
I wouldn’t go with the negative-ish names because you are not a negative person. I don’t think the “black eye” concept matches you because you are too funny and lovable. Because of that, I would lean toward the Panda. Raccoon….maybe. They look cute but you don’t want to mess with them!
I could totally see a black, red, and white site for you for a black and white panda wearing a red tie.
Tricia Meyer´s last blog ..Learning to Take Chances at Affiliate Summit
@Greg That’s mighty funny!
@Tricia You win the longest-comment to my blog evah, prize. A lunch date with me at the next summit. (might have to be at the all access platinum mess hall)
Thanks for your input. I am partial to Pandas, but Raccoon Marketing looks dope. Need more input!
I like where Tricia is going! I was for the raccoon marketing. But she is right, you do have that fun personality and maybe the panda is the way to go.
@David If it means that I get the pleasure of your company again, I will totally take that prize!!
Tricia Meyer´s last blog ..Learning to Take Chances at Affiliate Summit
@Tricia Okay, I must now endeavor to make sure I have the means & opportunity to get there. NY was so nice, might just go to change my lattitude.
Panda Monium Marketing… How’s that sound?
I like Panda Monium Marketing!
I’d go with Panda, too, mainly because I can’t spell well. Racoon, raccon, or raccoon?
However, I agree you need a unified presence online: DavidDOchoa (twitter) vs. daviddamian (blog) is confusing.
Panda describes you perfectly… you appear to be warm & cuddly, but get too close, and you’ll chew off someone’s fingers.
Eric Nagel´s last blog ..Jim Kukral Kicked My A** For 40 Minutes
I agree with the Panda. Racoons are mean which you aren’t. Maybe Panda’s are mean to, but they are though as more fun loving. You’re a funny guy and I think it fits you better.
Logan Thompson´s last blog ..Why Affiliate Summit Sessions Suck
@Logan It also helps the image because they are BIG creatures, like me.
@Eric I see what you mean, look at Logan’s comment. LOL.
@Tricia thanks.
Hey, pandas don’t have long fluffy tails like raccoons. You never see a panda hat in old Texas.
David! As you know I am getting ready to travel again and it has been crazy catching up. I saw your post and also see your tag line on Skype is now PandaBear Marketing. I love the new name! I think it is memorable and it fits you well. Sorry for not posting sooner!

Stephanie Lichtenstein´s last blog ..FourSquare Do’s and Don’ts
@Steph Thanks for your opinion. I’ll slowly be working on my new image. I have many things to do in six months! Tu familia esta en nuestros oraciones.