Name Tag Best Practices

Because a person’s name is the single context of human memory most apt to be forgotten, because self disclosure is the single most effective way to build rapport and connect with people you just met, and because initiating the conversation is half the battle—these name tag best practices are your best friend.

Improper creation and wearing of name tags can work against you (and your business) if you are not careful.

Scott Ginsberg, aka “The Nametag Guy,” is internationally recognized as “the world’s foremost field expert on name tags.” He is an author and speaker who helps people maximize approachability, become unforgettable and make a name for themselves. Here are Scott’s responses to several name tag related inquiries about best practices pulled from his Building Front Porches Ezine.

name tag name badge scott ginsberg

What are some best practices for wearing name tags at trade shows?

Before you even pack your show, make sure your employees, salespeople and booth representatives each have company name tags. The reason to do this is because a) trade show name tags don’t always maximize your “name tag real estate,” and b) trade show name tags rarely include your logo—which helps for brand recognition.

A variety of name tags with logos, custom shapes and other upgraded features that show off the best practices of using identification.

Now, perhaps it seems redundant to wear two name tags, right? Well, think about the Superbowl: How many commercials does Budweiser run each year? Exactly. Always more than one. So even with name tags, it is all about the three Rs of networking: repetition, repetition, repetition!

Next, when you get to the show, wear your name tag in a visible location so that everyone who walks in and out of your booth sees it. Potential buyers need to make the instant connection between you and the booth. Also, when you get busy, it can get hard for prospects to locate the right person. The last thing you want is uncertainty about who the actual booth employee is! So use your name tag to identify and differentiate yourself among the masses.

How do you handle poorly designed name tags that are already provided for you at events?

Tough issue. About 80% of the name tags I have ever seen at events are designed without consideration of font size, color, etc. I always suggest that people create and bring their own custom name tag to all events in the situation that the given name tag is ineffective. You can wear both if security and identification is an issue. But most chairs or hosts of meetings will not be offended, as long as you initially take the name tag given to you as an extension of courtesy—even if you don’t wear it.

On which side of your chest should you wear a name tag?

Most books on networking, meeting planning or interpersonal communication say name tags should go on the right. They say you should wear your name tag on the right hand side so it is visible in the direct line with your handshake. For the most part, I agree. And so do most people. This is one of the few name tag best practices most people are familiar with.

A hostess wearing her name tag on the right side of her uniform.

On the other hand, the horizontal placement of your name tag should be dependent on the capacity in which you are wearing it. For example, if you work in a hotel, in retail, at a trade show or any other environment where there are aisles, rows and hallways, consider the possibility of wearing your name tag on the left side of your chest so it is most visible to oncoming traffic.

Now, this is a debatable issue. But the bottom line about horizontal placement is this: it does not matter on which side of your chest the name tag lays, as long as it is above your breastbone and readable from 10 feet away.

Is it redundant to have your first name twice on your name tag?

Yes and no. Doubling the first name is common for conventions, meetings or large groups. Usually, the first name is reprinted above the entire name in a larger font to be more visible. Doubling is helpful for people who go by abbreviated, middle or different names. After all, all you really need to get their attention is their first name! On the other hand, if your name is Don it would be an ineffective use of your name tag space to write it twice. So, just write Don…but make it bigger. As big as you can!

Are some name tags better quality than others?

Absolutely. Especially when it comes casual settings and parties, handwritten name tags are usually a last minute purchase. Most people just buy the first box they see at their local supply store. But I must warn you that there are plenty of name tags out there that are horrible. Some have faded colors, while others have paper quality consistent with that of tissue.

In fact, many companies advertise weak adhesive to prevent clothing damage on their packaging to protect your fabulous wardrobe. But keep in mind, this second rate adhesive will wear off in minutes and cause your name tag to curl and become unreadable. So decide what is more important: sticky stuff on your clothes or being unapproachable.

plastic high-quality name tag with a uv color printed logo
metal high-quality name tags with engraved logos and names
plastic high-quality name tag with full-color printing and a punched slot for use with a lanyard

From branding to color matching, name tags, like uniforms, help to symbolize your quality. Creating a positive influence with your brand means guaranteeing that all of the services and products of your business are consistent. Employees and customers know when that consistency is not present. So, make sure to choose name tags that reflect your brand’s commitment to quality. And once this is accomplished, showing that you commit to quality is easy.

Company name tags show you care about the quality of your brand. When employees wear name tags, they are more accountable for their actions as customers can comment on them by name. And branded name tags prove to customers that you pay attention to all details. So, when you commit to quality, it helps you gain public trust and grow your business.

Are first and last names necessary for employee name tags?

Anonymity and personal safety are two issues, and focuses of best practices, that must be taken into account when issuing name tags to employees. Most handbooks or employee manuals briefly mention their name tag policies. However, many organizations fail to address this issue. Some people may not feel comfortable wearing both their first and last names on the job. I have heard accounts of nosy customers who tried to contact, even stalk, employees outside of work because they could obtain their personal information.

One solution to this problem is to use first name only name tags. This protects the anonymity of the employee, maximizes the space and looks friendly. Besides, the knowledge of your Radio Shack salesman’s last name is not crucial to the service process! Should a situation arise where a person’s safety may be in jeopardy, it might be a good idea to have an extra name tag with alternate spelling, or even a different name.

How do organizations approach name tag best practices?

Some organizations have employees, members, guests and other people coming in and out all the time. In order to avoid alienating some of those people, the organization must first make a decision on their best practices: either everybody wears name tags or nobody wears them.

Unfortunately, there will always be people who refuse to wear name tags. The only solution is, if you decide to implement name tags for everybody, is to make it expressly written externally (signage) or internally (handbook) so people will adhere to the rule. Nobody should be “too cool” to wear a name tag.

Another concern is the name tag’s potential to segregate members based on job title. I think it can go both ways. For example, I am a member of the National Speakers Association. We recently had our National Convention during which each member was assigned a custom name tag based on years of experience, membership, if a guest, etc. To my surprise, people were actually more willing to encourage team building because of these designations. I couldn’t count how many of the veteran speakers who have been in the business longer than I have been alive came up to me and said, “So Scott, this is your first convention, huh? How do you like it so far?”

On the other hand, if isolation by way of name tagging is a possible threat, I would suggest having the exact same type of name tag worn by all people, regardless of employee status.

Should you KISS your name tag?

Yes. Not literally, of course. By KISS I mean “Keep It Simple Stupid.” Recently an audience member asked me, “Why don’t you put your last name, company, position, etc. on your name tag? Don’t you want people to know that information?”

Well, yes and no. We all want people to know who we are, what we do and how we can help them. But it is more effective if you tell them as a response to an open ended question such as, “Tell me about the work you do.”

So when you use your name tag as a conversation starter, if you have the chance to create it yourself, design it in a simple way that sets you up with an opportunity to share the value you give.

Always remember one of the best practices is to KISS (keep it short and simple) your name tags, and they will do the work for you. No matter what your situation, these KISSed tags will get the job done.


P.S. Scott Ginsberg said, “Over a half of a million people suffer every year from Emblema Nomenpenia, more commonly known as Name Tag Deficiency Syndrome (NTDS). This debilitating condition has run rampant through the American business community for many decades, experts say, although only recently has it been classified.” Learn more here: Name Tag Deficiency Syndrome (NTDS)

Plan the Perfect Event with Quality Name Badges

From conferences to seminars, every event needs quality name badges. Personal identification is key to any event whether it’s a conference, seminar or trade show. As an event host or planner, you want your attendees to enjoy networking at your event. And, when they do, they are more likely to return again next year. Use quality name badges to put people at ease and make your conference or seminar a success.

What’s in a name?

Knowing someone’s name makes people more comfortable socializing with that person. With each attendee sporting a name badge, people will have a positive networking experience at your event.

Which type of name badge you use depends on your specific needs. Each one comes with many positive features and all of them are great for networking. Here are a few options to help you find the right fit for you.

Our Quality Name Badges

Adhesive Name Badges are perfect for when you need a quick, short term option. The adhesive will stick to almost any clothing and works well with any dress code. Have attendees write their name on these sticky tags using a pen or marker. Or, print their names in advance for faster registration. These name badges also come in five different colors so you can divide attendees into groups or identify them by their job position for easy networking.

Adhesives Name badges for any event.

Badge Holders are commonly used for conventions, schools, security and visitor passes. And like with adhesive name badges use the different colored inserts to separate attendees into groups or categories to keep your event organized. Slip a printed insert inside a holder for easy identification. Once the event is over, collect each badge holder for reuse. They also come with different fastener options including punched slots to use with custom lanyards.

Badge holders for event identification.

Conference Name Tags provide you with a pre-printed solution that is also budget friendly. Each tag is laminated to give your conference badges a professional style. Available in three standard sizes, customize these name tags with full color logos or graphics. Like badge holders, they come in a horizontal or vertical orientation with multiple fastener options.

Conference Name Tags to customize for any event.

Whichever name badges you need, what matters is having quality identification to impress your attendees and create a positive networking event.

The Best Features of Name Tags

What are name tag features and why are they so important? From security to basic identification, name tags are used for a variety of reasons. And, because of their distinguishing features, name tags are the perfect tool for everyone! They prove useful at meetings, conventions and in an office setting. No matter where you are, you’re sure to find a use for name tags.

And, here’s why!

classic name tags have features to help maintain individuality with names and titlesName Tag Features: Names, Titles and Pictures

The primary and most noticeable feature of a name tag is to display someone’s name. One of the most important things a name tag accomplishes is to identify the wearer. When a retail employee wears a name tag with a company name or logo visible on it, that name badge becomes a subtle form of advertising, and it reinforces that company’s brand into the minds of customers. Pictures also accomplish this same task.

Titles are also important, especially at a convention or large corporate meeting. Having a person’s title on a name tag is just as important as their name. This title defines the wearer and makes them more accessible to those looking for specific types of people at these large events.

By providing everyone at a conference or other event with identification, it reinforces their identities. And, this is indeed one of the essential features of a name tag.

the features found on photo id badges are perfect for security and brandingName Tag Features: Security and Branding

This fundamental feature isn’t just for use at a convention. Use name tags in offices and retail establishments for employees to recognize those who belong. As an example, if an employee is accustomed to seeing his or her fellow employees with name tags, an abnormality would be spotted easier. This is particularly true for a company that deals with sensitive information or products. Anyone that may be out of place would be immediately detected to help maintain the company’s security.

And, don’t forget branding! Leave your mark by adding a logo to all of the name tags in your office. Or, when creating name tags for a conference, add different company logos to each group’s name tags. Each company will appreciate this branding, and it also helps with continued recognition for each brand.

add a logo and other features to your name tags to increase relatabilityRelatability and Professionalism

Business name tags subtly encourage the wearer to maintain some professionalism. Sometimes it is easy for employees to forget where they are, but by adding a name badge or name tag, this is less likely to happen. While there is nothing wrong with having a casual working environment, a name tag will ensure a certain amount of professionalism.

The features of a name tag such as a name and company brand will also increase relatability for customers and clients. By wearing identification, employees immediately allow others to see who they are and thereby make themselves more approachable.

So, no matter your reason for wearing a name tag, remember these key features. And don’t forget to include them on all of your personal identification tools.

Networking with Name Tags

It’s the little things that count, right? And that applies to networking as well.

Andrew Rigie wrote “Why Name Tags And Other Little Details At Events Matter” for Forbes at little less than a month ago. And, we love what he said about networking!

The pressure is always high when you’re hosting a business networking event. Whether it’s a cocktail party for clients, an event to foster new business relationships, or a team building activity for your company, creating the right vibe and experience for attendees is a must. It doesn’t matter if you’re hosting a large event or small, it’s the little details that make a big difference.

wear a name to when networking and make it easier when you know everyone's name

Think for a moment. What does good networking look like? How do people act while networking? What are their attitudes? Most people would agree that a good networker is sincere, friendly and outgoing, supportive and a good listener. It isn’t just about staying in touch. It goes beyond that. A good networker is someone you want to trust and be friends with.

Providing high-quality name tags at networking events is a little detail that makes a big difference. They are worth the extra money. When we host networking events for hospitality industry professionals, we invest in high-quality name tags that stick to clothing using a magnet, instead of those with a pin. We’ve learned that people don’t always want to put a pin through their clothes and that using high-quality magnetic name tags elevates the perceived quality of the event.

Presentation Matters

badge holder cases and custom trays to display your name tags for your next networking eventRemember that people need to find their name tag easily. You don’t want several people milling around a table for too long before they locate their credentials and pass to enter your event. Take into consideration how they will be looking for their name. Are they use to finding their first name or last? And organizing names by a company makes it just the much more manageable.

Use our Badge Holder Cases and Display Trays to make your name tags easily accessible.

Utilize All of Your Tools

While badge holders and name tags are a great item to have on hand for any event, remember that you have other tools available. Try adding badge ribbons to each name tag for a custom look. Design ribbons to correspond with titles or positions at your next event.

While we have over 50 titles available as stock choices, custom ribbons are also available. Choose the color and title that best suits your need. And, if branding is needed, most of our ribbons can have a logo or graphic added.

People sometimes wince at the concept of name tags because they think they make the atmosphere cheesy or they’ve found ‘Hi My Name Is’ stickers stuck to the bottom of their shoes. But guests at our events make positive comments about the magnetic name tags, and they always want to take them home.

Name tags just fit the bill with networking. So, make your next event work even better with custom name tags and name badges.

How Name Tags Make A Difference

how to make a difference by wearing a name tag and networking“A name tag can show more than a name. It can be an opportunity to market your business and its purpose.”

While we have no affiliation with Ms. Mansfield, we agree with her perspective on name tags!

Here are some excerpts from her recent article “Your Name Here.”

(It) was a fantastic conference. Everyone who attended, presented and exhibited had to wear a name tag. It was large with heavy-duty plastic and a stable, double-attachment lanyard. It was the crème de la crème of name tags.

Every person had a name tag. It displayed their first name only and the tagline, “Here to Serve” under the name. From a marketing perspective, Botlierskop won the name tag game, hands down.

A name tag is a marketing and communication tool that provides critical information. The information is — or should be — dependent on the purpose of the event and the name tag viewer… We also interacted with other staff, all of whom were wearing name tags with their first name only and “Here to Serve.”

That was everything we needed to know. First name only, since we did not need to know their last names, and “Here to Serve” should tell you everything you need to know about Botlierskop’s commitment to customer service. Everything you needed and anything you could think of — all you had to do was ask.

Our name tags consisted of a peel-and-stick tag with our ISPO country and flag. Not having a name was disappointing, especially because we were there to meet and network with fellow representatives.

Mansfield suggests, and we concur, that when wearing a name tag, it’s all about content.

As such, here are a few pointers to make a difference in your name tag. And to help it stand out from the rest and be the “crème de la crème of name tags.”

  1. Remember the primary purpose of a name tag is to show someone’s name! The real difference this makes is to identify the wearer.
  2. Include only necessary items such as a small company logo or a short title. This information makes someone easier to identify quickly.
  3. Make your tags say something memorable. Ms. Mansfield gave the example of “Here to Serve” for this important aspect.
  4. Remember that your name tags are your branding. Whether it is a personal name tag or one for business, it will stand out in someone’s mind, so make sure you are representing what you want to.
  5. Name badges are meant to be a networking tool. Make sure you create a name tag that keeps the person wearing it approachable.

While these tips are not a complete list, they are a starting point to make a difference and are sure to get you on your way to having the “crème de la crème of name tags!”