Rather, how often are we asking other people this question? You may be thinking, 'well this is weird, am I supposed to randomly walk up to people and ask their name?' Not necessarily, although I'm sure many people may appreciate that.
My point today is a little more focused.
Out at lunch one day, a friend pointed something out to me. She said, "you always do that, it's kind of weird." When I questioned what she was referring to, she answered with "you always say their name." We were at Paradise Bakery and I said, "thank you, Jennifer" It was on her name tag.
My immediate response was, 'well, yea. It says it on her name badge.' My friend went on to explain that she had noticed that I do this every time we are out to eat and if they aren't wearing a name tag, I ask their name. I then found that a lot of people would notice and comment on that.
And yes, yes I do. I always make an effort to ask those serving me for their name or using their name if they have a name tag. Why? Well after thinking past the "its jut what I do" answer. I found more in my answer.
First rule I learned in business is, people LOVE hearing their name. If you've ever read How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, you may have also come across this adage. For years I was a recruiting assistant at Vector Marketing. One thing I learned doing that is to constantly use my applicant's name to build a connection. So yes, part of this was habit, but it is also so much more.
Every interaction you have with a person means something, if not to you, to them. Think about the barista at Starbucks. They spend all day with many people and their drink orders. They know your name. How many people take the time to say 'Thanks, Seth'? Just by using their name you make them feel special and important. Can you imagine if you went all day and no one acknowledged you as the person you are? I would hate that. People appreciate your acknowledgement. Even if you never cross paths again, that can make their day, or even their week.
When you engage with the person serving you and they appreciate it, you'll get better service too. Don't believe me? I started a conversation at a Chipotle and noticed the employee being extra generous with the portions in my bowl, and we all love extra guac. From time to time the clerk at the gas station I go to everyday gives me a free drink. All because they appreciate the connection I made with them.
Then there are the places you frequent. I frequented a lounge my friend always hung out and always acknowledged my waiter by name. He went on to open his own lounge which I now frequent. Because I had made that connection with him, I'm treated like a VIP. He's always comping my tabs or lowering my charges. I even took the time to know everyone of his employees names, AND REMEMBERED THEM. So every time I go, I say hello and use their name. A lot of them are surprised that I remembered and then smile with excitement. And although they are already good servers, they ALWAYS give me the best service.
And really, how much effort does it take to ask someone their name or use the name they have plastered on their chest? Not much.
TAKE ACTION:
Where ever you go, a coffee shop, restaurant, grocery store, anywhere. Use the other person's name. You'll start to notice most peoples' demeanor will change. They'll smile bigger or be more positive. And in turn so will yours.
Take an extra step: ask how their day is going.
