Changing name of successful channel

[caregiver12]

What effect can changing the name of a channel have? Could you lose ranking even if changing to something more relevant and professional looking?

I started in 2007 and my channel has always been called my nickname. I want to change to something more professional but am worried changing it could be negative.

 

[Vedstedsen]

Possibly if your current name is used for alot of SEO.
But i'd personally pick the more professional channel name, and write any short term loss off as long term gain.

 

[Seenix]

Like Vedstedsen said, it would help in the long run, especially for things like companies looking to be involved with your channel, so it would help if it is professional!