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)

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!

Why Logos Matter More Than You Think

What do you think of when you hear the word “logo?” When most people think about logos, they imagine cool designs that represent companies. They usually see them displayed front and center, on top of buildings or billboards. Products have logos branded on them. If products don’t have the logo, the packaging has the logo somewhere.

What is a logo? A logo is a symbol to identify your company that brings instant public recognition. They are graphic representations meant to connect with a brand, entity or endeavor so that an audience can recognize the connection effectively and consistently.

There are many types of logos because some cater to specific business types. Logos serve many purposes. We won’t get into every kind of logo there is or which one you should choose. Instead, here are explainations why logos are essential for your business and why you should include them on your name tags.

custom logo ribbon roll name tag name plate logos matter

Reasons Why Your Logo Matters

They Catch Viewers’ Eyes First

Logos are the first thing viewers see about a company. You want your logo to be attractive enough to catch people’s eyes. It would draw people in because they are curious about the business behind the logo. You know a logo is excellent when it is memorable and recognizable. It would also be nice to describe your business solely with visual elements, but that’s not always needed.

Take Advantage of Being Unique

You can stand out when you have a unique logo. Have you ever gone inside a store just because they had an exciting logo? You don’t know anything about the company, but you gave it a try because it had a logo that piqued your interest. That’s the goal when you have a unique logo. It speaks for itself. It screams, “We’re a company that cares about how we are perceived, and you should come to see what we’re about.”

logo name tags name plates ribbon rolls custom logos matter

Stand Ahead of Competitors

What’s even better about standing out is standing out against the competition. For example, dentist clinics usually have something with the word dental in their name. So how can they stand out against each other? One could have a logo of a tooth with coordinating typography, so it’s more distinctive for them. Again, it makes them memorable and recognizable, so customers and passersby know they are distinctive despite the many other similar clinics worldwide. It will display that your business is one of a kind despite the many similar companies there may be. Standing out is a persuasive method that urges customers to rely only on your business.

Huge Element in Brand Identity

An excellent logo is vital for your company’s brand identity. You want a logo that matches your business’ values and purpose. Elements such as colors and typography are essential as you want them to match the rest of your brand’s identity. Your brand identity involves many aspects of your business, such as your website, social media accounts, blogs, products, services and more. Consistency between all platforms is key to your brand identity, so you want your logo to match the essence of everything in your business.

What You Shouldn’t Do with Your Logo

We’ve covered some of the more significant reasons why logos are important. Now let’s get into some of the mistakes you should avoid with your business’ logo.

It Doesn’t Match with Your Business Brand

A good logo should represent your company’s branding, whereas a lousy logo doesn’t correlate with a company’s values and purpose. You want it to match your company’s message. Your logo needs a change if it doesn’t show those things. You want it to be a proper representation of your business.

Elements That Don’t Harmonize

You don’t have to be a graphic designer to know what looks good. Logos should be appealing to all kinds of people. There are several reasons a logo doesn’t look right. For starters, it seems too busy, the colors are too bright or don’t correlate well. The font doesn’t fit the company’s print, or there isn’t enough contrast between the fonts. An excellent tip to remember is that a good logo is acceptable when it looks appealing on a black and white background.

It’s Boring and Bland

The biggest thing that makes a logo not work is that it isn’t memorable. You can’t expect a business to succeed when it doesn’t have a decent logo. It should be able to start a conversation. It should stir up curiosity for people who haven’t heard of your business yet.

Final Thoughts

Your logo represents your business. You want to ensure it gets special attention and care because that’s one way your company is remembered. Implement a dependable logo your company can rely on.

Once you have a logo you are proud of, you can start using it on your products, clothing, buildings and, most importantly, name tags. When you have your logo on your employee’s name tag, it reminds your customers that they are a representative of your business. We have blogs delving more in detail about why you should include logos on your name tags and other products. Logo name tags are available in both plastic and metal.

logo name plates name tags ribbon rolls custom logos matter

Better Your Brand with Community Service

Building a brand is something every business regularly focuses on. From excellent customer service to quality products, brand reputation is everything you do to retain customers. This reputation directly impacts your customer’s behavior toward your company. By producing quality interactions with clients and customers, you are building your brand reputation.

Donations are a great way to show your customers how much you care about their needs. Giving something away is about adding value to your community, no matter if it is time or money. The joy we get from giving our products to those in need helps us to better our brand by investing in our community. By building this reputation, we continue to help those around us and also make our brand better.

We recently had the opportunity to give back to an organization that understands the importance of community service: the Red Barn Academy.

The Red Barn Academy staff wearing metal name tags from Coller Industries

What is Red Barn Academy?

Our mission here is to help reinvent broken lives from addiction and crime by teaching hard work, discipline and integrity in a farm setting.

Red Barn Academy is a therapeutic community for substance abusers and behavioral change. A therapeutic community is based on the concept of mutual self help. The motto at Red Barn Academy is “each one, teach one.” Everyone in our community has gifts and knowledge to share; we can learn and improve together. A therapeutic community is a residential treatment model with increased responsibility and independence. Red Barn Academy is a highly structured organization run by staff and current students (“Peers”).

The Haws family had a desire to give something back to the community – the original plan [back in 1976] was to construct a working community farm, within the master planned development, to help keep the feeling of the farm in Farmington. After development of the farm, The Haws family experienced their own personal tragedy related to addiction. This life altering family loss set in motion their desire to help other families and individuals struggling with addiction a place to turn for help.

Why name tags?

The Red Barn Academy received metal name tags with engraved names from Coller Industries to help them in their cause. Each name tag features a first and last name engraved in gold on a mirror red name tag. Rounded corners and a magnetic fastener complete the professional look for each name tag.

better your brand with metal engraved classic name tags from Coller Industries

Justice Tiedermann has first hand knowledge about how Red Barn Academy works. “I am a student here at Red Barn Academy. I’m a recovering meth addict, and I’ve been here for two years now. Before coming to Red Barn Academy, I was a liar and manipulator who could hardly stand the sight of myself, let alone hear my own name. However, being here at Red Barn and just practicing doing the next right thing and working hard, literally working for either our moving company, our construction, and our property management, and pushing through those hard days of either blistering heat or bitter cold, I have developed a sense of confidence to where I can look in the mirror and be proud of who I see, and wear my name on my chest with pride.”

Tiedermann, a Senior Student on the Corporate Development team, said, “This [name tag donation] will help us provide a sense of professionalism and confidence within our students.”

Better Your Brand with Professional Identification

Like the Red Barn Academy, we believe that name tags help with professionalism and confidence. Developing a positive reputation requires consistency. The Red Barn Academy understands this should include wearing matching name tags. Wearing a name tag featuring your brand also helps your customers know that you have their best interest in mind. (P.S. We think they look great!)

World Scout Jamboree & Name Tags

What does a scout jamboree have to do with name tags? Well…

Glen Jean, West Virginia – The story starts in London, 1920. The first World Scout Jamboree was held from 30 July 1920 to 8 August 1920 and was hosted by the United Kingdom at Kensington Olympia in London. Since then, the jamboree has been held in various places around the world. But, the last time it was in the US was in 1967. This year, that all changed!

Albin Dearing, BSA Contingent Troop 315 Assistant Scoutmaster, explains, “The first World Scout Jamboree was organized by the Boy Scouts Association in London. With exceptions of the war years, it has been held every four years in different parts of the world. The 2019 World Jamboree will be held at the Bechtel Summit Reserve in West Virginia. Over 45,000 scouts representing 152 countries will be attending.”

Donation from Coller Industries Incorporated

“Troop USA 315 is a temporary troop of 36 scouts and four adult leaders put together for the purpose of attending the 2019 World Scout Jamboree hosted this year in West Virginia,” said Dearing. “The donation towards our name tags will allow the scouts to learn each other’s names faster as they make new friends and relationships.”

What is a World Scout Jamboree?

The World Scout Jamboree is above all an educational event that brings together the world’s young people to promote peace and mutual understanding and to develop leadership and life skills.

The 24th World Scout Jamboree will feature the hallmarks of past world jamboree programs, such as the Global Development Village, special sustainability initiatives and the socialization elements that allow participants to make lifelong friends from around the world.

From astronauts to a local scouts, everyone is having fun with scouting activities. Even name tags get a place in this year’s scout jamboree!

Dearing said, “Our troop will be part of the USA Contingent going to the 2019 World Scout Jamboree in West Virginia in July. 36 scouts and four adult leaders will be part of our Troop USA 315. Since scouts from multiple local units will be coming together for this adventure, we decided the other day to get the boys name badges.”

Plastic Name Tags (UV Color Logo)

Full color logos are genius when it comes to the professionalism of your business name tags. And, with UV colors, bright gradients and images show up vividly for everyone to see. We engrave all text into the two color plastic material. Choose from a large selection of sizes and other custom options to make the best out of your branding.

US printed logo on a plastic name tag for the World Scout Jamboree.

Dearing is proud to be a part of the scouting tradition. “We are Boy Scout Troop USA 315 from the Great Trail Council in Ohio,” he said. “The three primary aims of scouting for today’s youth are growth in moral strength and character, participating citizenship and development of physical, mental, and emotional fitness. The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.”