Etiquette for Encountering Someone with an Unusual Name
As someone with not only an uncommon name, but an uncommon pronunciation of that name, I thought it would help people to have a little guide on what to do when they encounter someone with an unusual name. Whether it is at work, school, volunteering, church, or though friends and family, we may meet someone or see on paper or screen a name that we are unsure of how to say. Here are some things NOT to do: 1. Do not ignore their name. (My name isn't, "hey.") 2. Do not give them a nickname. (I had a teacher refuse to learn my name and simply dubbed me "Student X." 3. Do not give them attitude if they correct your pronunciation. (I had a school administrator rudely tell me, "whatever," when I corrected their pronunciation of my name.) 4. Do not make fun of their name. 5. Do not question why they were named that (except in honest, interested inquiry.) 6. It's ok to repeat their name a few times if you are trying to remember it, but don&#