Are Name Tags Necessary?
It is the week of the event. You have your tables set. You have confirmed with your caterer. You just put the finishing touches on your PowerPoint. You just have one task left. Printing name tags. But, is this really necessary?!? In a word, yes! In another word, ABSOLUTELY! Name tags allow for social interaction among strangers and the avoidance of embarrassment from staff to donors. Have you ever forgotten the name of a large donor's spouse? Name tags are simple security to professionalize your event. When you know WHO people are, you can interact much more easily. Plus, think about your guests! Inevitably, there will be tables with unknown groups. An easy ice-breaker is a name tag. "I see your name is Kim. That's my mother's name! Nice to meet you. How are you connected with the ministry?"Name tags allow for a more personable approach when engaging your guests. It is unrealistic to expect that every person will know everyone at your event, including Table Hosts. Printing name tags and handing them out upon registration helps everyone have a sense of belonging. Each person is there because they believe in your cause or want to learn more about it. When you call a person by name, it helps them feel significant and therefore more attached to your organization. Through Attendance, name tags are easily created for your guests. Simply click the name tag tool within your event and find the appropriate name tag style. I know we are in a high-tech world and name tags may not give that feeling. But trust me, when you are learning about an organization for the very first time and are seated at a table of strangers, that name tag is a life-saver.
Andrea Trudden
This article was inspired by our customers and written to encourage your fundraising efforts. Although we work with ministries and events daily, our team members are not Event Consultants. We encourage you to consult with your event consultant, executive team, and/or affiliate organization before making any major changes to your events.