Someone different to everyone

Photo: The Image Takers

Anyone who’s been in my life for a number of years will know that I’m a fan of change, and wearing different hats.

One look at the catalogue of my hairstyles in the last five years alone will tell you that I’m comfortable looking like a different person, and often. Brunette, blonde, balayage, long, short, curly, straight — you name it, I’ve been it.

With this in mind, I reflected on how my members see me as their financial adviser and coach, and one of the most obvious signs of our relationship status is what they call me.

Professional personas

To some, I think I come across as quite formal and authoritarian. There’s a more professional, serious tone in our communications. To them, I’m ‘Rebecca’.

With others, it’s less formal. We’re friendly, even though I’m firm. These members have naturally taken to calling me “Bec” and “Becs” (although there’s a couple that write Bek with a k which does do my head in). 

To another bunch, they don’t see me with any formality at all. Their emails more closely resemble texts. They write, “Hey!” and have lots and lots of emojis.

My recent favourite was one who opened with “Hello Dear”. 

What people call us can show up how they see us and the role we play to them. Some of that perception we can control. Sometimes I’m very serious and project ‘Rebecca’, other times, not so much.

It’s also just how our personalities work together.

Keeping life interesting 

I don’t think there’s a right or wrong way of connecting to my members, and I don’t have a preference in greetings (as long as there’s no k in there!). 

This variety has made me smile and keeps me feeling fresh each day.