Phil,

After reading the post, I made up some customized name tags yesterday.

Here is a link to a screen shot of them.

http://www.nopqr.com/nametags.html

I then bought plastic name tag holders with clips for each one.

Starting today, I will have all of them in the car, and depending on the type of service call I’m on, I will then wear the appropriate badge.

Many months ago, I stumbled upon something while talking to folks on the phone.

I would be calling to talk to…whoever.

When they would ask who I was, I would say, “John, the telephone guy”. (Or John, the surveillance guy…whatever)

About half the time, they would chuckle, and process my call.

Also, when I would show up for a meeting or a repair call, I would walk in, and ask for the person I was supposed to meet, and the receptionist would ask who I was.

I would say, “I’m John, the telephone guy”.

Same reaction.

A chuckle, a smile, or the start of a conversation that broke the ice.

I found it MUCH more effective than saying I was John, from Seattle Business Telecom Services.

So, when I saw the name tag concept, it resonated with me as a business advantage that further enhances what I already know works.

Also, as I’m going to be watching how folks react in a checkout line, etc.

I bet it starts up conversations that I never would have had.

If someone needs phone work, they will probably ask about my services.

The name tag plastic holder can hold a few business cards behind the “John” tag.

I am going to put a few business cards in there, so if I am asked a question and I feel it is appropriate, I can quickly and easily give them a card to call me if they want to get more information.

I'll try and periodically post the results.

John Palma