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)

4 Ways to Get the Best Name Tag

Having the right tools to identify your team helps build better communication with customers. Name tags and badges help with these challenges by building trust and improving workplace security. They also increase employee networking and growth opportunities. Explore this product gallery to discover the best name tag or badge for your needs.

Establishing Brand Awareness

While there are many ways to establish your brand, one of the simplest is to use name tags that feature your logo. Having your employees wear Logo Name Tags boosts brand awareness and builds communication between employees and customers. This vital step will pave the way for future business growth.

UV Color: We add your logo to your material choice using ultraviolet (UV) technology. This innovative process cures the ink as it is printed, creating vibrant colors that enhance visibility and appeal.


Digital (Full Color): Experience high resolution logos, sharp text and intricate graphics on thin plastic name tags, available through advanced digital printing technology.


Engraved: The text and logo are laser engraved onto the material’s surface, resulting in two color name tags. Choose from a variety of plastic and metal color combinations.


Simple Design with a Professional Touch

Create a personal touch with Classic Name Tags to help promote communication. They also help to make customers feel more at ease when they need assistance. A well designed name tag with legible text showing the employee’s name and title can make a big difference. This simple strategy can significantly boost customer engagement and satisfaction.

Name Tags with a Custom Design give you the freedom to express your style. Choose from various colors, unique designs and classic frames to create a name tag that reflects your business needs. Plus, we keep all custom orders on file, making reordering simple.


Name Tags Using Stock Templates are the perfect solution for anyone needing to balance budget with professionalism. You benefit from no set-up fees and 13 template styles in various materials, colors and sizes. Customize a classic name tag by choosing the color, finish styles and upgrades.


Smart and Sustainable Identification

Save time and money with Reusable Name Badges. These reusable options allow you to add or change the names on your badge as you need to. Use a printer to create paper or transparent inserts or write names directly on the badges with erasable chalk markers. Choose from various styles to find the ideal badge for your needs.

  • Mighty Badges – Professional metal badges with a clear lens cover and printable transparent inserts (with or without a UV color logo).
  • Logo Only Badges – Badges with a logo (UV color or engraved), room may be left for adding names and information as needed.
  • Chalkboard Badges – Write on these black badges using erasable chalk markers. You can choose to add an optional UV color logo.
  • Speedy Badges – Plastic badges available in multiple colors with a clear protective cover. Use the printable paper inserts to add any names or information you need.
  • Dry Erase Badges – Available in black and white materials and with or without a UV color logo. Use a marker to write names and information.
  • Clear Badges – Acrylic badges featuring a slide out design for quickly replacing paper inserts. All you need is your design, then print inserts as you need them.
  • Adhesive Badges – Self adhesive paper labels allow for easy writing or printing. These single use badges are quickly attached at any event, party or meeting.

Your Best Name Tag, Your Way.

These other available professional identification solutions serve specific purposes, giving you more choices for your team. Using alternative tags will help you enhance security, build networking opportunities at social gatherings and improve customer communication.

Photo ID Badges: Including a photo on a name tag enhances security and helps associate individuals with their name tags. Personalize them by adding a person’s photo, name, title, organization or business logo.


Custom Shaped Name Tags: Whether enhancing business meetings, celebrating holiday promotions or creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, unleash your creativity with an exciting custom shape. These playful tags will make your events, office or products stand out.


Conference Name Tags: Lamination makes these tags durable enough for multi day events. They can be printed in full color with almost any desired information. Use them for social gatherings, meetings, events and more.


Invest in Your Brand Identity with the Best Name Tag

Choosing the right name tag is essential for building connections and growing your business. Whether you prefer the vibrant look of UV color printing or the flexibility of reusable name badges, investing in high quality name tags will enhance your business. These identification solutions will also help build a sense of belonging among your employees and create better communication with your customers.

Increasing Business Success Through Name Tags

As a business owner, are you always looking for ways to improve your company? Remember that even small things, like name tags, can make a big difference. Yes, they might seem small to most people, but name tags can get big things done for your business. As you start to plan for your next quarterly profit, keep in mind how identification can be beneficial for your company. Name tags can help with increasing business success.

Three styles of name tags that show how logos look when printed or engraved differently which helps when increasing business success.

Name tags help customers feel welcome

Acting as icebreakers, name tags help employees provide excellent customer service. They encourage communication between your customers and employees. After all, a name tag is essentially an unspoken introduction. When employees introduce themselves by wearing a name tag, customers feel welcome in your office or store. Name tags also permit customers to approach employees with a question or problem. As customers interact with your employees, your team gains valuable insight into what customers need and how to help them.

Sometimes, customers come into a store, restaurant or other place of business and are met with such friendly and helpful workers that they need an employee’s name to pass on compliments. When staff wears name tags, it is easy for anyone to know their names and give this praise. Name tags also provide a friendly invitation to say hello. All of this puts customers more at ease, which is great for business.

Increasing business success by keeping track of things

It is important to know who the employees are in larger businesses, like corporations or hospitals. Name tags help by providing job titles quickly. So, if everyone is wearing a name tag, you’re working on increasing business success through customer retention.

Name tags also make it easier when a business needs to resolve problems at work. When customers know an employee’s name, they feel more comfortable asking questions to get help when they need it. This means that things get done quicker and more efficiently. Name tags are one way to help establish good communication, and good communication is great for increasing business success.

Finding the right name tags

Name tags are like a mini billboard for your company. When everyone wears name tags with the same logo and colors, it creates a strong image for the business. From reusable to all the upgrades, here are some products to help you find the name tags and badges that best suit your company’s needs.

Clear Reusable Name Badge with a printed insert that shows how name tags work to increase business success.

Clear Reusable Name Badges

  • One size, reusable plastic badge
  • Printable paper inserts for any information and colors you need

Maintain your small business’s professionalism with Clear Reusable Name Badges. Made with sturdy acrylic plastic, these new tags are where quality meets reusability. Print inserts as you need to change the badges and then easily slide out the old to bring in the new.


Engraved Logo Name Tag with a first name and job title.

Engraved Logo Name Tags

  • Two layer, plastic material with engraved logo, names and titles
  • Multiple sizes and material colors
  • Optional upgrades: epoxy dome, classy frames, fasteners

Laser engraving the logo and text creates a two color tag that can have a great deal of detail. You can choose the material color, font and style options. Each name tag is made with your business in mind. And the engraving makes for a professional look.


UV printed logo, a classy frame and an epoxy dome all add to the professional look of this name tag.

UV Printed Logo Name Tags

  • Plastic, durable material with multiple sizes and color options
  • UV printed color logo with engraved names and titles
  • Optional upgrades: epoxy dome, classy frames, fasteners

Color logos are genius when it comes to the professionalism of your business name tags. Promote your company every time your employees wear name tags with bright UV color printing. Your logo will capture everyone’s attention, and the printing quality shows you are proud of your business.

Increasing business success, one name tag at a time

Success for every business comes when both employees and customers are happy with their experience with that company. And there are ways to ensure that happiness. We are here to help you find that success using personal identification.

Trust is important in business, and name tags help build that trust to make customers feel safe. From helping people remember each other’s names to leading to important business conversations, name tags increase success.

So, as you have read, something as simple as a name tag can do so many important things for any company. Name tags might be small, but they are mighty! Next time you put on your name tag, remember that it isn’t just a tag; it’s a tool for making your business better!

Create a New You with a New Name Tag

It’s out with 2022, and in with 2023; a new year has begun. Now is the perfect time for new year’s resolutions. We make resolutions to try to become better than last year. They are goals for ourselves and those around us. Get started with steps to create a new you by revamping the office with new name tags, name plates and badge ribbons.

Coller Industries takes pride in creating high quality products such as name plates, name tags, ribbons, lanyards, signs and more. Creating products of the highest quality is what we always ensure. Our products go well in conferences, award ceremonies or just your day at work. We strive to keep our customers coming back for more.

Coworkers celebrating and using name tags and name plates

Here’s how to create a new you with new and improved name tags and name plates.

You may have a name tag you have worn for years, so it’s time for an upgrade. Why consider a new name tag? First, name tags allow employees to display who they are and work for. Second, they break the ice when networking, so talking to others is even easier. Third, it gives customers a sense of security knowing they are working with professionals. Finally, it helps communicate that staff is there for a reason: to help your customers with what they need.

Imagine wearing a name tag that you personalized yourself. Your new name tag could have the font and colors you choose to help you stand out. You can also wear a photo ID with a picture of you that you are proud of.

PRO TIP: You can choose how you want to wear your name tag with our LARGE selection of fasteners.

We have reusable name badges to be reused for future use. In addition, we have display racks to display a conference’s worth of name tags in a neat and organized fashion. Display racks are essential for conference meetings so that everyone can find their name tag quickly and easily.

logo name plate engraved with full name and title

If your business has a logo, you can put it on one of our custom products. We will work with you to make sure you are happy with your order. Our experienced design team will devise concepts you can give input on and complete with total customer satisfaction.

It is typical for employees to have their area of refuge, e.g., their desk. Employees decorate their desk to make their space more personalized and comfortable. The same applies for name plates. We have name plates for your desk that are fully customizable. We help liven up your old name tags and name plates for a personal touch.

Name Plates are to Desks as Bows are to Gifts

Name plates can provide a person’s name, title and corporation. A personalized name plate shows that you are an industry professional who is proud of who you are. A name plate that includes job titles displays the employee’s purpose. A professional looking name plate would perfect the professional looking desk you’ve been needing. And, you won’t even have to wait for Christmas.

Like our name tags, our name plates come with several ways to customize them. They come in different materials, colors, fonts, font colors, logos and more. Name plates are great because they can either sit on top of a desk or hang on a cubicle wall. We have several name plate holders, such as the classic holder. They come out with such high quality that just a glimpse is all you need to know that you are an industry professional.

Don’t forget the ribbons!

badge ribbon with imprinted text

Badge ribbons are a favorite among our customers as they are versatile and attractive. Like everything else we sell, badge ribbons are available in several colors and fonts. Customize them however you want them. We have stock badge ribbons representing various positions for a great deal. Custom text badge ribbons assist you in marketing a company, advertising or decorating name tags.


Your everyday name tag may be dull and outdated, so liven up things by upgrading your boring name tag with a brand new one. Customize your new name tag with your style. After you create your custom name tag, you can personalize a name plate and badge ribbons to create a new you. They are the perfect combo for a new you this new year.

Order name tags, badge ribbons and more now to stay up to date with your identification. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter as well!

Community Sharing for the Holidays

We learn from a young age that sharing is to “partake of, use, experience, occupy or enjoy things and experiences with others.” You can feel a strong sense of belonging when sharing in your community. And when businesses adopt these practices, their business will grow exponentially!

From farmer’s markets to local theater performances, supporting local activities show your interest in your local community. When companies get together as a community, take pride in others’ work and increase their camaraderie, they will discover the true meaning of the holiday spirit.

Did you know…

Every time you pick up a coffee at your local café, grab lunch at the mom-and-pop shop or buy a new bag from a local store, you’re making an impact in your community. In fact, for every dollar spent at a small business in the US, approximately 67 cents stays in the local community.

Community Sharing Events

Events help communities to get together and form a bond. By participating in local activities, businesses can give back to their neighborhoods and create awareness about community needs. These events are also great for meeting new people and finding new customers.

There are many reasons to sponsor a community event. You can improve your neighborhood, raise funds for a local cause or charity and celebrate the local culture. Best of all, you know that everyone will come together to attend. Create your event team from your employees and businesses around you.

Holiday community events are a great place to begin, as they garner even more attention. As with anything that has a holiday theme, sharing is always a central theme.

Identification and Community Sharing

Name badges, customized ribbons and many other products will help you during community events. In addition, they will let you reach out to your neighbors and businesses to let them know who you are and that you are there to help.

Here are three products with ways they will help your community.

ADHESIVE BADGES
Colored adhesive name badges to write names on for a community party.

Use adhesive badges for quick identification at your next community event. Each person writes their name, and the adhesive holds the tags to their clothing. Consider throwing a party for your community businesses where everyone comes together and shares products and services with their neighbor businesses. We should set this up for our neighborhood and share name tags!

BADGE HOLDERS
A vinyl badge holder with a printed insert with the name of a block captain for a community luncheon.

Community recognition can happen anywhere: school art shows or neighborhood events, so be prepared with quick identification. A low-cost option, badge holders, allow you to print inserts that slide into a plastic sleeve. You can select anything from a deluxe magnetic fastener to lanyards.

BLANK BADGE RIBBONS
Blank badge ribbon in deep gold with a handwritten note for a guest pass at a community sharing event.

Make identification fun with blank badge ribbons as pin-on name tags, or use them for your next block party. Create unique awards and passes with custom imprinted badge ribbons attached to contestants and given to guests.

Holding community events is perfect for promoting positive change in your neighborhood. And there is ample opportunity during your gathering to provide improvement to your community and network with your neighbors. Work on strengthening your community bonds and bringing your community closer together by celebrating your differences.

a variety of identification products

Products for Community Events:

Discover additional products on nametag.com