Ever felt a twinge of frustration when your colleagues mispronounce your name? It's a common issue that can impact workplace relationships and personal identity. Let's delve into expert advice on addressing this delicate matter effectively.
Getting a name wrong may be unintentional
That doesn’t make it any less irresponsible and unprofessional
- So, what should you do if your colleagues keep messing up your name?
- First, know that…
- How does one politely respond when being called by the wrong name? How can you avoid being confused?
Garner Support from Allies
Your allies are the people who can speak up for you and correct others when you are not around.
- Find peers or colleagues whom you trust, and casually explain the situation to them. You might be surprised by how many of your peers are experiencing similar microaggressions.
Make a Formal Complaint
Submit your concerns to human resources anonymously
- Tell HR exactly how they can make sure it doesn’t happen again
- Suggest the organization invest in some form of race and diversity training for all employees
- Let HR know the steps that you have already taken to resolve the issue
Know When to Leave
You are responsible for the personal care of yourself, your health, your career growth, and your sanity.
- While walking away from a position you enjoy may be painful, if you constantly have to perform to feel seen, heard, valued, and respected, you may ultimately want to consider moving on.
Ask clarifying questions
Offer a warm smile while saying something like, “Wait, did you just call me Sam by accident?” This lets the person know that you care about having your name sounded out correctly, and it gives them the opportunity to hopefully apologize and confirm the correct name or pronunciation.
Recognize This For What It Is
Despite it being illegal, people of color face all kinds of discrimination at work.
- Failing to properly identify Black, brown, and other marginalized employees – again and again without concern – is a prime example of one.
- Mispronouncing your name is one thing. But continuously getting you mixed up with another colleague in the office is downright brazen.
Offer A Correction
If you’re not comfortable calling someone out in the moment, practice in the mirror first, or role play with a friend, career coach, or therapist.
- Try, “My name is Horacio. The H is silent. I’m the finance lead.”
Directly Express Your Concerns
Be blunt in your delivery
- You don’t have to physically express emotions like anger or sadness to show that you are upset, but you do have to clearly communicate how your colleauges’ mistakes make you feel.
- Stop and allow them to respond, then continue the conversation.
Know That It’s Not About You
Harboring anger against your colleagues will not benefit you at all, neither will it aid the growth of the people doing you harm
- Do your best to separate yourself from their behaviors
- The last thing you want to do is change yourself instead of confronting the actual problem
Call Out Your Colleagues (Gently)
While correcting someone in a position of power may make you feel like you are being overly assertive, remember that you are not.
