We can avoid butchering names

Some people have the tendency to say "I'm about to butcher this name" before saying a name that they are not familiar with. I came across that three times in podcast interviews in just a week — in one case I know the interviewer had said that in other interviews, too.

It makes perfect sense if you have to do it unrehearsed. However, it makes absolutely no sense to say that when you had plenty of time to prepare.

If you have given getting it right a good go and still can't get it, that's totally fine! In fact, "Is this how you say your name..." is a great way to start a conversation properly while showing that you respect the person you are interviewing and have tried.

It's easier than ever to find out how to say someone's name properly, so when you say "I'm about to butcher a name" again and again, what you really are saying is that you don't care enough to try.

Stop saying that you're butchering names if you do try, and start trying if you don't already.