Over ten years ago, I visited India to launch a Global Indian program with my dear friend Ranjini Manian, founder of Global Adjustments. She inspired this article with a true story involving her intern Max and learned a lesson…
Ranjini said: “Max, please deliver this letter in person. My driver will take you there, and you may leave it with the front desk person.”
“Your driver?” Max asked, stopping in his tracks. “You mean Rajan?… He is a person.”
Ranjini replied in a snap: “Yes, of course, you’re right; Rajan will take you.”
At that moment, Ranjini realized the disconnect between what transpired and what many of us profess is essential:
We profess to have unity in diversity.
We profess to see oneness in all.
We profess to speak with respect.
Although titles like Sir, Madam, Mr., Ms, or Doctor are signs of respect, using words like “mailroom guy,” “janitor,” or “VA” can be demeaning.
Here are 8 items to implement when using a person’s name:
- Acknowledge Individuality. Once we realize the significance of recognizing a person as a unique individual, each with their skills, experiences, and contributions, we create a sense of familiarity and help build trust.
- Build Positive Relationships. Using names cultivates an environment where people feel valued and understood, leading to more effective and meaningful communication. No matter how brief an encounter is, using a person’s name and showing genuine interest in their comments and ideas fosters an immediate personal connection. This improves teamwork, collaboration, job satisfaction, happiness, and well-being.
- Enhanced Communication. Have you noticed; more online ads are personalized to your name? Addressing someone by name captures their attention and encourages active listening. So, doesn’t it make sense that we would equally want to address all individuals by name to capture their attention and lead to more effective and meaningful communication?
- Boost Employee Morale. Regularly using a person’s name in positive contexts, such as when sharing praise, can significantly impact the person’s self-esteem and confidence. Attaching efforts and achievements to a name builds pride in their work and reinforces the person’s value to the team and company.
- Encourage Empathy. When addressing someone by name, this will prompt you to see the person as an individual with feelings, thoughts, and experiences. When conflicts arise, approach situations empathetically, promoting inclusivity and nurturing a compassionate workplace culture that fosters a respectful and understanding dialogue.
- Personalizing Recognition. When acknowledging someone’s accomplishments, it’s essential to use their name. This makes the recognition more personal, whether at a business or non-profit meeting, among friends, or within the family. Specifically, mentioning a person’s contributions by name shows that you’ve noticed their efforts.
- Reduce stereotyping and Bias. Consistently using names removes stereotypes and biases, allowing us to see beyond superficial labels and embrace individual talents, skills, and contributions.
- Strengthen Leadership and Management. All managers and leaders should lead by example by addressing every team member by name. This demonstrates a commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment, creating an open-door policy for discussions, and active listening to all concerns.
Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Personalization
By following these actionable items, individuals can improve workplace dynamics by using names in all interactions, humanizing job titles, and fostering respect, empathy, and inclusivity. I promise it will change your life forever!
As much as I love people saying, “Oh, yes, she’s that etiquette lady,” I love it best when someone knows my name, Syndi Seid… and even when it’s mispronounced… at least they’re getting there!
Happy Practicing!