How do you ask for someones name without being rude??

Question

i am a receptionist and i was wondering how are you supposed to ask someone (actual person not over the phone) their name?? like if they ask for "john". i know on the phone you can say "may i tell them whose calling" but in person what are you supposed to say?

Answer 1

this happens to me all the time and i either tell them i didn't catch their name, or ask them to remind me because even though i know it, i am blanking on their name.

Answer 2

May I tell them who's here. That's what I used to say if they didn't tell me their name on their own. They should know to give you their names if they are visiting an office.

Answer 3

My Dr.'s office hands out their own appointment cards with the names, time, and Dr. to be seen on them. Sure, a lot get lost along the way, but if a patient remembers them, boy it makes their life a lot easier.

Answer 4

Just say " Im sorry your name completely slipped my mind." Or, Just like on the phone, say " You are? " Or "whom shall I say is here to see him/her." Or just ask, " do you have an appointment," This will set them up to give their name with out having to ask specifically.

Answer 5

the same way. May I ask your name so I can tell that person you are here to see them.

Answer 6

How is it rude to ask someone's name?

Answer 7

Ask for a business card. If they do not have a business card, ask, "Do you have an appointment?" If yes, then ask "under what name would the appointment appear?"

If the person does not have an appointment... "May I tell them whose calling?"

Answer 8

If im trying to get someones name I introduce myself. But in the Army we all have handy dandy name tags.

Answer 9

If someone asks to see "John", just say "Sure, may I tell him your name?"

Answer 10

Ask if they have an appointment and look at the appointment book. Or, ask, "Is he/she expecting you?" They will usually volunteer the info. If they don't catch the hint, just ask.