What's In A Name?

Have you ever wondered why the check-out person at the grocery store has a name tag? Why does the sales clerk at the shoe store have a name tag? Is it so that if I am given rude service or substandard service, I can easily identify that person to the manager? I would venture to say that in the vast majority of instances, that is when MOST people notice a name tag.

One of the first things I noticed about my fiance', Selena, was that she always said "Hi" or struck up a conversation with a clerk by using their name. At first I found that "different", but then I tried it and found that my interactions with these people were more enjoyable. It became a more "personal" experience.

The other day I was driving through the front gate of the military installation I work at. There were a few cars ahead of me and I noticed the guard, checking the ID cards of the drivers in a typical ho-hum, bored manner. I mean, how exciting can that be, right? When I pulled up, as I now try to do, I looked for the name tag. I opened my window and greeted the guard with a cheerful, "Good morning Mr. "Jones"". His face brightened and a smile appeared and he greeted me much more warmly than he had been the others. He felt noticed!! Sometimes you notice some unusual names that become part of the interaction between you.

I think this is one of the most valuable lessons I have learned over the past few years...one that is easy to do and makes a difference almost every time. Yes, sometimes the person has no personality and would just as soon have you get out of their line...but usually, the response is a smile and cheerfulness.

Next time you are at the grocery store, or a restaurant, or anywhere that the person helping you has a name tag on...take the time to notice the name and use it as you talk to the person. Not only will you notice the pleasant reaction from that person, you too, will get something out of it.