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Fortune
Fortune
Emma Burleigh

This common tactic people use to get ahead at work is backfiring as coworkers call it 'creepy'

Worker is annoyed in conversation with co-worker. (Credit: Westend61 / Getty Images)
  • People have mixed feelings about the age-old tactic of repeating a client’s name to make a sale or to seem more personable. Those on the receiving end find it condescending, disingenuous, and “icky.” People who are parroting names say it’s backed by science—and it’s a “superpower” on the job.

Repeating someone’s name in conversation has long been used as a tactic to avoid forgetfulness or to drive home a sale. But the strategy might not be as endearing as it’s been promoted. 

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