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.

Introducing: Conference Name Tags

New products are always an exciting time here in our office. Whether it is name tags, name plates or any other personal identification, we are always trying to keep up to date on our customer’s needs and possible want lists. Part of this process is to also keep up with the trends in the personalized identification business.

This month we would like to introduce you to CONFERENCE NAME TAGS!

Conference Name Tags are a great solution for any meeting planner’s need for inexpensive name badges. Instead of spending time printing inserts and stuffing vinyl name badge holders, we print attendees names on custom laminated badges. An experienced designer will work with you to design a custom badge.

And as always, we will maintain your layout and order information to make it easy to order name tags for your next meeting, seminar or conference.

Event Identification

Between conventions and conferences, the last thing you need to worry about is personal identification. While adhesive name badges are super easy to deal with, they can also be informal. And sometimes traditional name tags are just a bit too much, and possibly too expensive. While we have many choices to meet every need, this new product provides even further options.

Each conference tag is printed on a heavy card stock for durability and then sealed with lamination. This makes all the name tags have a professional, finished look. These name tags have three available sizes and the larger two have a choice or horizontal or vertical orientations.

Conference name tags come with several fastener choices. Much like other name tags, use magnetic fasteners, swivel bulldog clips or even pins. Try having a hole punched in the top of larger tags and hang them on lanyards.

2.25x3.5 inch Conference Name Tags
2.25×3.5 inches
3x4 inch Conference Name Tags
3×4 inches
1.25x3 inch Conference Name Tags
1.25×3 inches

Every detail you need…

With a low minimum order quantity at 10, Conference Name Tags are affordable and easy to order. And, as with most of our products, we offer quantity discounts on each size to make these name tags even more affordable for your events.

Add logos, graphics and text to each name tag. Remember that branding at conferences is important for any company or organization. When an event is well organized and branded, it essentially guarantees a good impression. Your event’s first impression is sure to leave a lasting impact on attendees. Whether your conference is big or small, the overall attendee experience needs to be good enough for them to want to come back the next time.

No matter your choice for conference, convention or event name tags, make sure to find something that truly meets your needs. Conference name tags are a perfect solution to meet any need and still provide professionalism.

Where are Custom Lanyards Frequently Used?

Custom lanyards are everywhere, and they have so many uses.

From the simple and traditional of displaying a name badge to the more creative portable shower caddie, lanyards are definitely universal. So, where are custom lanyards most traditionally used?

Businesses and Organizations

custom lanyards for schools and businesses to promote corporate brandingCommonly used for displaying badge holders, name tags and other personal identification, lanyards are utilized in everyday situations around the workplace. Custom lanyards can be printed with a slogan, motto or company logo to promote brand recognition and identify not only the wearer, but the company as well. Often, these lanyards are a requirement for access into a building or meeting and can be used this way as advertising.

Conventions and Conferences

quick turn custom lanyards used commonly in businesses and for other conventions and eventsTrade shows and conventions are a great marketing terrain for customized lanyards and trade show organizers. They can be helpful in using and displaying schedules, passes and other event credentials. Lanyards can be used to secure items that are important and that the user does not want to lose. Handing out lanyards to newly arriving guests is also a great way to show them your appreciation. Custom lanyards with logos for conferences make the event unforgettable.

Schools

Students and teachers all use lanyards on a daily basis and for a variety of purposes. Custom lanyards are perfect for showing school spirit; just add a name and logo and match the imprinting and lanyard colors to the school. Teachers often wear lanyards with photo identification badges for security reasons. And, students wear lanyards to keep keys and other items close at hand.

Parties, Receptions and Reunions

Custom lanyards are perfect during these family and friend events for keepsakes and to bring people together. Lanyards come in many color choices and will meet any need. Make them especially memorable by having the event or family name, year or location imprinted in a bright color. These keepsakes are sure to create their own memories.

custom lanyards to meet any need add a logo or slogan for extra branding