What's in a name? More than you might think
Names carry meaning. They carry history. And they carry identity.
To mark Belonging at Just Week, our Race Equality Network have been exploring the stories behind their names. They have shared the origins, pronunciations and the connection they hold to family, culture and heritage.
At Just, we know that belonging doesn’t start with grand gestures; it begins with being seen, heard and valued for who you are. For many people, their name is a key part of that. Getting someone’s name right isn’t just about being polite, it’s a small, everyday act of inclusion that tells someone they matter.
Why names matter in the workplace
In a professional context, names are often our first introduction to each other. But too often, names are shortened, mispronounced or changed to make them easier for others. Taking the time to ask, learn and say someone’s name correctly builds trust and respect. It says, “You belong here and you don’t have to change who you are to fit in”. In a world that moves fast and often hides individuality, asking someone about their name is a powerful way to connect and understand someone’s story.
What this means for us at Just
Belonging at Just Week is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of each other and the everyday actions that help us create a more inclusive workplace. The stories that have been shared by our colleagues this week are a celebration of identity, but also a reminder that inclusion is a shared responsibility and that it shows up in the little things.
As we continue to focus on high performance, we know that colleagues do their best work when they feel accepted and valued. Belonging isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s essential for a thriving and high-performing culture.