A Rose By Any Other Name…
Posted on June 3rd, 2008 by Cynthia D'Amour
Could be an insult.
I’ve gone to the same place for pedicures for five years now.
- When I walk in, I know people by name.
- It’s a happy place for me.
Until today…
To save money (my guess) the salon adopted an email appointment reminder - rather than the personal calls they used to make.
- I understand the transition - especially in a tight economy.
- What I don’t understand is getting the confirmation addressed to “Cindy!”
- I am Cynthia - not Cindy.
My initial response to the email was a bit of hurt - how could they not know my name after all these years?
- I’ve made all my reservations as Cynthia.
- I have a relationship with them as Cynthia.
- Even if someone didn’t know me, why would they alter my computer records?
I know it probably shouldn’t bug me - but hey, it’s MY name!
(I bet other salons wouldn’t try to change my name…)
Makes me think of chapter leaders…how do you make know if you are using your members’ preferred names?
Filed under: Savvy Leadership
I agree that nothing says “I don’t really know you” than when the preferred name isn’t used.
A Congressional candidate called me at home, for a significant political contribution, and called me Cynthia three times in two minutes. The theory someone wants to hear their name only works if they’re using the preferred name.
I’m also surprised when someone guesses wrong at the spelling of my name (Cyndi, Cyndee, Cindi, etc.) too - as Cindy the most common version.
Hi Cindy!
I actually use variations of spelling Cindy when I provide my name for newsletters, magazines, etc.
I like to be able to track where my information goes. (Ah, the enternal marketer.)
It’s also an easy way to identify my junk mail.
I’m married to a James - not Jim so we have a potential (and too common) double whammy in our house.
He often introduces himself as James and will have people immediately respond, “Nice to meet you Jim.”
Now do we really want to hang out with a person who is so clueless? Or buy anything from them?
Would you volunteer for someone who does not use your preferred name?
Cynthia