Uh-Oh . . . One year I was the guest speaker at an annual…
““Uh-Oh . . . One year I was the guest speaker at an annual conference. The person who coordinated the agenda mistakenly typed my name as “Sue” rather than “Susan.” I felt odd and a little disrespected because they didn’t take the time to ask the spelling of my name. It felt awkward when I saw it on all the tables throughout the ballroom, to say the least. I asked, “Please make sure that you introduce me as Susan because I’ve never been called Sue.” The initial impression was sticky for an instant, but they quickly made it right. The correction was shared and everything turned out fine. Even an innocent and unintentional name error can impact your first impressions. Making a joke about it once I was on stage was a light-hearted way to confirm my real name.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Misnaming a speaker can cause discomfort and affect first impressions, but a light‑hearted correction can restore confidence and rapport.
In simple terms: Wrong name hurts; humor fixes it.
Key Takeaway
Address the mistake promptly with humor.
Themes
respect
communication
identity
professionalism
Mood
embarrassed
relieved
confident
Type
anecdotal
practical
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- networking events
- team meetings
- client presentations
Key Concepts
social dynamics
self‑presentation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you turn a naming error into a positive moment?
- What tone best restores credibility?
A Different Perspective
If the correction is too serious, it may reinforce embarrassment.