You would think, that I, of all people, would get someone’s name right. I usually remember people’s names, and I know people expect you to spell and pronounce their name right. It only makes sense.
I never had too many problems with the name “Lauren” until I spent 5 years as a community caseworker for the elderly. Apparently, 70 plus years ago, my name wasn’t too common. As a result, any time someone called up asking to speak to Laura, Laurie, Lauren or Laurel, the receptionist would patch the call through to me. I also had a client who insisted on calling me Lorraine, no matter how many times I told her what my name was. I eventually gave up and just answered to Lorraine.
And with a last name of Hidden…common word, but uncommon for a last name. I have some people thinking my last name is “Helper”, which is kind of flattering, because at least they remember my last name is part of my business name.
This brings me to my faux pas. I have a new client. He has a common pronounced name, but an unfamiliar (to me) spelling for it. I’ve misspelled it in two different emails. How embarrassing. He seems to be maintaining good humor about it, but I think I will tape the spelling of his name to my computer screen. I don’t want to do it again.
So learn from my mistakes. Pay attention to an unusual name, or spelling. And do whatever you need to to save yourself from the embarrassment I’m feeling right now!
Until next time….