
Say My Name: Why Pronunciation Matters
Apple CEO Tim Cook asked his Siri team to change the pronunciation of “Streisand”
Pronouncing other peoples’ names correctly is a vital aspect of building sales relationships.
Here’s how to do it right:
Why Saying Names Correctly Matters
Saying or Pronouncing names correctly matters. It is more than just a gesture; it is an act of respect and inclusivity. Each name carries significance and identity, and getting it right matters more than we realise.
Barbara Streisand’s call to Apple CEO Tim Cook asking his Siri team to change the pronunciation of her last name (“sand” not “zand”) was a powerful example.

It wasn’t about outrageous celebrity demands but about recognising that a name holds a deeply held personal and cultural identity. Streisand’s (did you remember to say “sand”?) initiative reflected a broader issue many face daily – mispronunciation of their names.
Workplaces are becoming increasingly complex and diverse, with many different ethnicities and cultures represented under one roof. Mispronunciation of names can lead to feelings of exclusion, incivility or passive aggressivity, and are a barrier to effective communication and relationship building..
Whether it’s a colleague, client, or a friend, taking the time to correctly pronounce someone’s name demonstrates you care and respect.
3 Top Tips to Getting it Right
🔹 Ask, Don’t Assume: When in doubt, ask. People will appreciate the extra effort you’ve gone to.
🔹 Practice and Learn: Take the time to practice and learn the correct pronunciation. It shows genuine interest and respect.
🔹 Correct Mistakes: If you make a mistake, apologise, correct yourself. It shows you care and that you’re an inclusive leader.
Let’s create an environment where everyone’s name is pronounced with care and consideration. It’s a small yet powerful way to foster a culture of respect and inclusion.
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