Please don’t ask if you can call me Sandy! It’s not my name. My name is Sangeeta…break it into syllables and you’ll be able to pronounce it easily. Not making the effort to learn someone’s name or worse, asking them if you can use a nickname when they have introduced themselves with their given name is saying that you’re not willing to make the effort to learn their name. You are saying that you don’t respect them enough.

A person’s name is very much a part of their identity. The proper response if you are having trouble with someone’s name is: “I’m sorry…would you mind repeating your name slowly? I’d really like to say it properly.” That minute or so that you spend learning how to pronounce their name will go a long way towards making a positive impression. Of course, they may respond with a nickname they feel comfortable using. The important point here is to show courtesy and respect…something we all value and want but often forget to show other people.

Posted on June 10, 2009 by Sangeeta Gupta

Dr. Sangeeta Gupta is a partner in Gupta Consulting Group, (GCG), a full service consulting and training organization specializing in global leadership, diversity and cross-cultural strategy and training. We also help non-US companies succeed in the US business environment. For further information, please contact us at info@guptaconsulting.com.