A rose by any other name. . .

I interviewed Professor Andreas Hauskrecht for the premier CIBER Focus. “Hauskrecht” gave me nightmares the evening before—not the person, but the name. I practiced saying it aloud. Before cameras rolled, I ask him to pronounce it. . .slowly and clearly. I said it back to him. He was gracious and didn’t laugh out loud. “That will be fine,” he responded. “No, no. I want to get it right,” I protested. We try again. Cameras roll and once, twice, three times—I butcher the pronunciation of the name of this brilliant scholar whom I respect and admire. I feel ridiculous and worried that I have offended.

When working in an international context and with international business partners, you, too, will meet up with the unpronounceable name. What should you do?

1) Do NOT avoid saying the name. Dodging the issue may seem an easy way out, but in many cultures a name is related to one’s family and culture and may hold incredible meaning to the individual. When being introduced to people of many cultures, it is a polite gesture to enquire about the meaning of his or her name. A person will almost always be able to tell you and will appreciate your interest.

2) Ask about the correct pronunciation and communicate your DESIRE to say it right.

3) Say it like you mean it. Difficult pronunciations can shake our confidence. Shaken confidence can affect our own performance. A vicious cycle develops. The more anxious I am about “getting it right,” the more likely I am to blow it. You’ve practiced. You’ve communicated your positive intentions. Now just say it as if you got it!