YOU CAN CALL ME AL

Yesterday, a colleague asked if I preferred to be called Patrick or Pat.

I told him that when I am calling on people who don’t know me, or taking a call from someone I don’t know, I use Patrick. When I used Pat previously, some callers thought I said Matt and it created some confusion. Patrick solves that problem.

But I also told him that my family and friends call me Pat and I hoped he would too.

He also noted (correctly) that permitting the use of the simple version instead of the formal one probably speeds up the relationship-building process. And isn’t that what selling is all about?

Your name may not lend itself to this situation. But if it does, I encourage you to encourage others to call you by your familiar name as soon as you feel comfortable about it....which should be about the time you hand them your business card.

If I was named Alfred or Albert, I’d certainly print that on my card. But every time I met someone new, I’d hand them my card, introduce myself and let them know, “you can call me Al.”

Comments

[Dr. Wright]

People ask if I prefer Dr Wright or Letitia and sometimes look offended when I say Dr. Wright
I explain to them I am branding ( like Dr Phil)

Dr Wright
www.twitter.com/drwright1

[James]

What if you prefer your given name? My friends call me James and that's how I introduce myself. I am amazed when someone will respond with, "Hi, Jim." Aren't they listening?

Not 'Gym'.