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HelpName Tags & Badges: Dos and Don’ts
Names tags and badges are taking a lot of heat lately, but the truth of the matter is that name badges at events in 2014 play a more vital role than ever: You want attendees to work the room and build good rapport, and the name badge is a readily-available easy conversation starter that links offsite and onsite attendees, too.
But we get it–something like the above image has been around since 1959 (thanks, Wikipedia!), and many have yet to think outside the box when it comes to how to make them different and adaptable to a particular venue or event. Here are a couple of Do’s and Don'ts when it comes to designing your name badges:
DON’T: Fill up the entire badge with content.
Save the story for the conversation in person or online. DO save space on the name badge by adding a Twitter handle or fun + engaging hashtag. Social media is in–incorporate it as you see fit and help attendees connect beyond event walls.
DO: Think about badge size.
Thanks for the pic, @gregoryadamsonartist.
Size does matter. It’s easier to get lost in a crowd at larger events like conferences or trade shows, so having a bigger badge can keep the networking going at a desired pace. The badges for bizbash’s #BizBashLA were pre-printed and easily readable and visible from a distance and in low lighting.
Don’t: Use a font just because it’s “pretty”…
But DO put your best font forward! We like the term “fontroversy” because everyone has their preference when it comes to reading and writing styles. Certain fonts are more legible and aesthetically pleasing than others, for instance visual, rounded letters seem to be most appealing. At a large event like a conference or trade show, you want
Do: Experiment!
Play with titles and professions to give the ID more life. Substitute “Occupation” with “Superpower,” similar to what lizkingevents asks of guests at her gatherings. Creativity generates engagement, and being different can be like a breath of fresh air.
Also consider breaking free from the traditional sticker on a lanyard or string: RFID badges, magnets, a #selfiebadge (which works in conjunction with Kiosk-mode), or branded wristbands are all different options. One blogger stated her preference that’s similar to being like the King (of Burger…) at events by wearing a branded accessory.
Either way you slice it, name badges are essential at many events. Keep in mind when wearing a name badge…
DO: Make sure you wear the badge so it is easily readable, and walk through the smart gates. Your session won’t be tracked if you veer around them.
Great photo of DIY badges (and placement) via Dockyard.
DO: Readjust lanyards or strings so the badge hangs higher up. A big part about networking is making eye contact, and shaving off a few seconds of search time for badges at belt-level can make a huge difference if you’re meeting + greeting in a crowded venue.
And remember: DON’T worry about WiFi at a venue. You can create a badge design–that’s fun or straightforward–with the Boomset Badge Editor, save it to the system, and then print your guests’ IDs hassle-free on custom pre-printed stock with the new Bluetooth battery-powered Zebra printers.
If you’re interested in finding out more about how to evolve your event’s name badges, reach out to us at social@boomset.com.
