Studies have shown that using friendly nicknames can be a great way to solidify personal relationships, but they can be tricky in the workplace thanks to the hierarchical nature of professional relationships. Should you embrace nicknames? Or should they stay out of the office entirely? Here’s what research suggests for leaders.

Let your team call you by a nickname (if you like it). Allowing employees to use a nickname for you can make you seem approachable and part of the team. But don’t force it—the best nicknames emerge naturally.

Avoid nicknames for employees. Assigning nicknames to employees can feel too informal or even patronizing. Given the power dynamics, they may hesitate to voice discomfort, impacting morale. Stick to first names unless an employee explicitly offers a nickname.

Assess your organization’s culture. In less-hierarchical workplaces, nicknames can foster closeness. However, in more traditional, structured settings, nicknames may be less appropriate.

When in doubt, communicate. Unsure about whether to use someone’s nickname? Ask them privately. Open communication fosters comfort and mutual respect, keeping nickname use positive and professional.
This tip is adapted from “Research: The Rules of Using Playful Nicknames at Work,” by Zhe Zhang and Shuili Du.
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