How to Change Outlook Email Name Display

Logan Jul 18, 2026

Communicating professionally with a personalized email signature becomes crucial in today's digital landscape. One key aspect of this is displaying your name correctly in Outlook emails. However, this might not always reflect accurately due to automated processes or initial setup. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to ensure your name is displayed as intended in your Outlook email signature.

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7 things you didn’t know you could do in Outlook!

Before we dive into the steps, it's important to understand that the name displayed in your Outlook email signature is typically controlled by your organization's mail server settings or your personal email client settings, depending on whether you use Microsoft Office or Outlook.com. Let's explore both scenarios.

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How to Change the Email Display Name Formats of All Your Contacts in Batches with Outlook VBA

Changing Outlook Email Name Display in Microsoft Office

If you're using Microsoft Office Outlook for businesses, follow these steps to change your email display name:

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How to Change the Font Color on the Subject Line of an Email in Outlook | Techwalla

Option 1: Using the Account Settings

1. Open your Outlook desktop app.

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Converting Outlook Emails into Tasks

2. Go to 'File'> 'Info'> 'Account Settings'> 'Change Profile'.

3. Here, you can modify your display name. Type in your preferred name, and click 'OK' to save changes.

Option 2: Using Exchange Server Settings

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how to color code your email in outlook?

If your organization uses an Exchange server, the display name might be set centrally. Contact your Exchange server administrator to update your name as per your preference.

Although the Exchange server may override local settings, adjustments made using the above steps should usually only apply to email signatures. If you're unsure, it's best to contact your server administrator for confirmation.

Changing Outlook Email Name Display in Outlook.com

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How to Organize Outlook Email: [Tips and Tricks for a More Efficient Inbox]

If you're using Outlook.com for personal email, follow these steps to change your email display name:

Step 1: Changing Profile Information

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a close up of a cell phone with an arrow pointing to it
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1. On any Outlook.com page, click on the 'Settings'> 'View full settings' (gear icon) at the top right corner.

2. Select 'Profile and account info'> 'Manage how you sign in to Microsoft'.

3. Here, change the 'Name' field to your preferred name. The change will reflect across all your Microsoft services, including email.

Step 2: Verifying Your Email Name Change

After changing your name in the profile settings, it usually takes a few minutes for the updates to reflect in your emails. Check your latest sent email to confirm the change.

However, if your display name still doesn't change, sign out of all your Microsoft accounts and then sign back in. This should force the new settings to take effect.

Email communication is a powerful tool for professional growth and maintaining strong relationships. Ensuring your name is displayed accurately in your emails, as outlined in this guide, contributes to a polished and professional image. Happy communicating!