Imagine ... you are walking into a room full of colleagues, friends, or even strangers. Someone glances your way and instead of a generic “Hey,” they greet you with a bright smile and a cheerful, “Hey, (your name)!” Instantly, you feel seen. Not just acknowledged, but genuinely recognised. That tiny moment, that one little word, your name, suddenly makes everything warmer. That’s the power we often underestimate, the importance of using people’s names.
Let’s start with something many of us do every day, emails. Think about the difference between receiving a message that starts with “Hi,” versus one that opens with “Hi, Jannik.” It’s such a small touch, but it turns a cold interaction into a personal one. Even better? Pop their name in the subject line. For example, “Hi Lorenzo, Quick question about Friday’s meeting.” It’s not only friendly, but efficient. It tells the person straight away that the message is meant for them. People are far more likely to open, read, and respond to something that feels personal.
Now take that idea and bring it into your daily conversations. When you’re speaking to someone, whether it’s your barista, your boss, or your partner, saying their name now and then helps create a sense of connection. It’s like giving a verbal hug. Imagine telling your friend, “You know what, Matteo? You’ve really helped me today.” Doesn’t that feel more genuine than just, “You’ve really helped me today”? Our names are part of our identity, and hearing them reminds us we matter.
Even in the simplest of greetings, names change everything. Picture walking into your office and hearing, “Morning!” Fine, pleasant, polite. Now imagine, “Morning, Darren!” That smile that creeps up? That’s not an accident. There’s something beautifully human in being recognised. The importance of using people’s names shines through in those tiny exchanges.
Let’s take a look at a few everyday moments where this magic plays out:
1. In Meetings
Whether it’s a quick Zoom check-in or a big strategy session, using someone’s name when addressing them shows attentiveness. “I really liked what you said earlier, Jack,” is much more engaging than “That point earlier was good.” It encourages people to participate and feel valued.
2. Networking Events
You’re in a room full of strangers, name tags everywhere. Instead of, “So, what do you do?” try “So, Alex, what brought you to this event?” It feels intentional and immediately makes you stand out as someone who’s genuinely listening.
3. Customer Service
Think about calling your bank. You say, “Hi, I’m Laila.” And the rep replies, “Alright, let’s get that sorted for you.” Feels a bit cold, right? Now imagine, “Thanks, Lucy, let me help you with that.” Better already. Using your name not only builds rapport but also trust.
4. Job Interviews
Interviewers are people too. Starting with, “Thank you for meeting me today, Ms Cahill,” and dropping their name a few more times subtly through the conversation shows respect and focus.
5. Parenting & Teaching
“Great job, Anna!” has more impact than just “Great job!” Kids especially light up when their names are mentioned. It signals praise and attention specifically for them.
6. Conflict Resolution
Even in tough conversations, using names can ease tension. “I hear you, David, and I understand why you’re frustrated,” sounds much more empathetic than, “I hear you and understand the frustration.”
Now, let’s contrast that with a few examples of what happens when names are left out:
❌ “Hi, can you call me back?”
No idea who it’s for. It could be anyone. You’ll probably ignore it.
❌ “Morning.”
Nice, but kind of bland. No personal touch.
❌ “Thanks for your help.”
Helpful, sure. But it could be about anyone.
Now let’s flip it and feel the difference:
✅ “Hi Yasmin, can you call me back when you’re free?”
She’ll feel like the message is meant for her.
✅ “Morning, Raj!”
Instant spark. It feels warm and thoughtful.
✅ “Thanks so much for your help, Jordan. I really appreciate it.”
Jordan is definitely smiling.
That’s the importance of using people’s names right there, it transforms the way we connect. It turns the mundane into the meaningful. It says, “You’re not just anyone, you’re you.”
Here’s the real magic, the benefits go beyond just making others feel good. When you use someone’s name, you come across as more engaged, empathetic, and confident. People remember you better. Conversations flow more smoothly. And relationships, personal or professional, tend to deepen.
Ready to try it out? Here are three fun, simple activities you can do this week:
🟠 1. Name Warm-Ups
Every morning for one week, greet your colleagues, friends, or family members by their name. “Good morning, Olivia!” “Hey there, Sam!” Notice their reactions and how your own mood shifts.
🟠 2. The Name Drop Challenge
In your next 5 conversations, whether at work or in a shop, intentionally use the other person’s name at least twice. Keep it natural. Watch how they respond.
🟠 3. Email Makeover
Go through your inbox. Pick 3 people you write to often. Start your next message to each of them with their name in the greeting and the subject line. See if your reply rates or tone of conversation improves.
By practising the use of names, you’re not just improving your communication, you’re brightening someone else’s day, making them feel noticed in a world that often rushes past us.
Let’s be honest though, remembering names can be tricky sometimes, especially when you meet a lot of people. But making the effort says a lot about your character. A little trick? When someone introduces themselves, repeat their name: “Nice to meet you, Daniel.” It helps lock it in. And if you forget, it’s okay to ask again. It shows you care enough to get it right.
So, the next time you're tempted to start a message with just “Hi,” pause for a second. Add their name. Personalise it. Connect.
After all, the importance of using people’s names isn't about being formal or overly polished. It’s about being human. It's a tiny habit that leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s helping you build rapport in business, strengthen friendships, or simply add kindness to a stranger’s day, using someone’s name is one of the simplest, most powerful tools we have.
And guess what? You don’t need a fancy degree or special training to do it. Just a moment of attention, a touch of intention, and a willingness to treat others the way we all love to be treated.
So here’s to names. Yours, mine, everyone’s. Because every time we speak someone’s name with care, we’re not just talking, we’re making them feel valued. And honestly, isn't that what good communication is all about?
If you know someone who might find this helpful, don’t keep it to yourself—please share it.
You never know how much of a difference it could make in someone’s life.
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