Today, I received an e-mail from ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership that allowed me to proof my name badge for the upcoming Annual Meeting in Nashville. Here is an image of what I received:
This is a terribly exciting development, not only for ASAE & The Center
and for meetings in general, but for me personally. I have
struggled my whole life with the challenge of getting others to spell
my last name correctly. I cannot tell you how many hundreds of
times over the decades other people have substituted their
judgment for mine when spelling my last name. People have
actually argued with me about it, suggesting that the space in my name
is not necessary or not a mistake. The joke I make is that if I
could get back all of the time I've spent correcting error-filled spellings my last name over the
last 37 years, I'd still be 18 years old!
To me, this very simple e-mail is more than just excellent customer service. For me, it is a sign of respect, a recognition of my individuality and a very simple step that allows me to regain control over how I present myself to others. Oh sure, an incorrect name badge could be corrected at the meeting. But now I'm know that ASAE & The Center cares about me as a person, not just as a meeting attendee, and that's a wonderful feeling. Bravo!
UPDATE: Rich over at the Trade Show Marketing Report pokes fun at my enthusiasm about the badge proofing option. But Rich doesn't get my mail...today's extraordinary new spelling of my last name: DeAcagna. Now that's one I haven't seen before...full marks for originality.
Okay, well I guess the teasing portion of our program has begun. Very funny guys! You're great comedians...I'm cracking up even as I write this comment. :>)
Posted by: Jeff De Cagna | July 20, 2005 at 02:35 PM
Hey Geoff, did they include the title "Strategic Planner" for you on your badge? Is that why it's blacked out?
Posted by: Bill Scott | July 20, 2005 at 02:15 PM
What a great idea, but shouldn't it be "Jeph"...?
Posted by: Ted | July 20, 2005 at 10:23 AM