How to Figure Out How to Pronounce Someones Name - The Muse

How to Figure Out How to Pronounce Someones Name - The MuseHow to Figure Out How to Pronounce Someones Name At least 75% of the people I meet get my anthroponym wrong. Theyll call me Alyssa even though my first name doesnt have an a at the end, and theyll tell me Wow, thats so cool your first and last name rhyme (They dont).And I know Im elend the only rolle who deals with this. I bet youve mispronounced someones name before, realized it, and experienced a long moment of awkwardness- a moment youd like to never relive.While I cant tell you theres some magic formula thatll make it possible to always get it right, there are some tricks that can help. Because even something as simple as butchering a name could cost you a client or a job offer. Heres what I suggest you do1. Look for a Recording or Find a Phonetic SpellingIf you have a scheduled meeting with someone, its always smart to do a bit of stalking beforehand. Use this time to figure out how to pronounce his or her name. The firs t stops always YouTube, in hopes of finding footage from a panel, speech, or interview. But to be honest, thats usually not a success. Next step Scroll through social media to see if he provides a phonetic spelling of his name (youd be surprised how many people do).Another options going to a site like Pronounce Names or How to Pronounce. Theyll both let you search the name and offer recordings and phonetic spellings in various languages, helping you to narrow down your options. 2. Phone a FriendDo you have a connection in common who you know well? Use it. Simply pick up the phone (no really, you cant text this one) and ask how to pronounce the parts name. As long as you keep it respectful and let the person know why youre asking (Id hate to go into the meeting tomorrow and offend our client, or Im a bit nervous for the interview and didnt get a chance to ask), he or shes probably happy to help out.3. Really Listen During the IntroductionThe best time to catch someones name is during your first interaction. So, be on full alert when you know the opportunity is coming, rather than focusing on other things, like how you look or what to say next.Then, as soon as you have a chance, jot down the pronunciation in your phone so you dont forget. Just make sure to do this casually- and not right in front of the person. 4. Avoid Saying the Name for as Long as PossibleIf youve met and spoken with this person several times already and youre still not sure, you probably dont want to embarrass yourself by getting it wrong.I come across this issue a lot. Im so focused on the conversation- especially when Im nervous in interviews- that Im never focused enough to take in the pronunciation. If youre one-on-one with the person, its pretty easy (and more natural) not to address the person by his or her name. Just make sure the next time he or she says it, you actually listen.5. Just Ask (Politely)While this is the most obvious option, so many people skip it. But heres the thing Ma ny people with unique names know it. So theyre unlikely to get offended if you straight up ask how to pronounce it.With that said, an uncommon name to you may be very common to someone else, so make sure youre approaching this correctly.That means you dont start with, Ive never seen this name before or Whoa, not even going to try to say your name.Instead be open and honest and try theseI want to make sure I get your name right- how do you say it?Can you tell me how to properly pronounce your name? Would you mind saying your name again? I missed it the first time because I was distracted by interesting thing the person was saying.Sorry, Im the worst, do you mind repeating your name?Its less likely someone will get upset if he or she knows youre trying to get it right, and not trying to be rude.Regardless of which approach you choose, know that the longer you wait to find out, the more uncomfortable the situation becomes. Because at some point, youll reach a certain level point that n ot knowing it could damage your relationship and reputation. So if you find yourself getting close to that point, address it. Itll be much easier to recover from the awkwardness of talking about it now than a huge slip-up later on.Photo of two men talking courtesy of Caiaimage/Paul Bradbury/Getty Images.