I did some riding one summer from a stable that owned a horse with no name. The group responsible for naming horses never could agree on a name for him — and he was forever called Nameless. Interestingly, he’s the only horse I can remember!
While it might be memorable for a HORSE to remain nameless, I find that not many people respond positively to this same treatment. Using names can:
- personalize what you’re saying
- make a more permanent connection
- give a sense of belonging
Over the years, I’ve tried to practically apply this concept.
An important aspect of my Customer Service role for The Worthwhile Company is to identify people I come in contact with by name. My opportunities are many throughout a day — phone calls, correspondence, other employees and guests who come through the front door. My whole team helps me in practical ways to add that personal touch. Contact information is kept up-to-date, surprise visitors are met by employees who know them, and meeting appointments include guests’ names so that I can quickly glance at the calendar and greet people by name.
In business, there are a lot of decisions and strategies that have to be worked through for goals to be reached. A simple approach for connections that build relationships and trust is to make the effort to leave no one “nameless.”
