#1 Networking Disaster

The #1 in-person networking disaster? The lanyard nametag. How can we launch people into space, but we can't innovate a decent nametag for work events?

A few scenarios play out:

1. The nametag hangs down by the belly button which is a super-awkward place to glance.
2. The nametag flips around to the wrong side--a useless, tacky necklace that clashes with your outfit.
3. The typed font is too small to be read from a socially-acceptable distance.
4. The handwritten versions are often not legible

The safety pin nametag is a bit better, but only if you wear cotton button-downs. The magnet nametag is likely best, but only if the letters are large enough.

So, since we haven't improved the lanyard since its invention in the 15th century, let's control what we can control when we're networking.

SAY YOUR NAME first. Put an end to the panic we face when someone we should likely know is approaching. Even if you know you've met the person before, say your name as a friendly reminder. "It's Donna. It's so good to see you."

Do your part to put others at ease and triumph over the lanyard.