Introducing myself with my nickname - memorable or unprofessional?

Question

Hey guys I wanted to run an idea by you all really quickly!

I've gone by the nickname 'Pongo' for many years now in both my professional and personal life. It's part of my online identity on social networks like facebook, instagram, etc. In addition to this, my coworkers (in a professional office setting) call me Pongo to avoid confusing me in conversation with our coworker Erin. I like this name because it is both fun and identifiable.

My question is this: would it be memorable to introduce myself to professionals in the Real Estate world as Pongo, or unprofessional and confusing? I realize that Aaron is not the most common name ever, so perhaps it's a fruitless exercise...but I'm viewing this as an opportunity to create a "Pongo the Real Estate Investor" identity. It's a hat that I can put on and take off, as well as a means to stick out in people's minds.

BP - what do you think?

Aaron Mikottis · Answer

@Jd Martin @Mark Nolan Account Closed

Thanks to everyone who provided input for me. I appreciate you all taking the time to share your opinions. I think I'll stick to introducing myself with my legal name but utilize my nickname later in my professional relationships as a way to build rapport.

Thanks again!

Aaron Mikottis · Answer

@Bill Pohl - That's a great idea, thanks for the suggestion!

Bill P. · Answer

@Aaron Mikottis

How about changing your business cards to: Aaron "Pongo" Mikottis as a way to introduce the Pongo portion of your identity?

JD Martin · Answer

I agree with Nick. I think it is too familiar for initial meetings. That is something you save for a developed relationship.

Mark Nolan · Answer

@Aaron Mikottis

BP is full of useful resources such as forums and blogs. Welcome to the Bigger Pockets community-be sure to check out all the awesome BP blogs under “Learn.”

Cindy Meyer · Answer

@Aaron Mikottis

Pongo is a great nickname.

As an investor, I like the familiarity that a nickname brings.  It may be baseless, but I much prefer taking away a layer of stuffy professionalism.....especially when I am sharing my intimate financial details with an individual.