Name Pronunciation Guide in O365
This article illustrates the name pronunciation feature in M365 that fosters a more inclusive and respectful work environment. It enables users to record and share their name pronunciations, making it easier for colleagues to address them correctly, improving communication, reducing misunderstanding and building trust.
🎧 Name Pronunciation: A complete guide
In a diverse workplace, correctly pronouncing someone’s name is a small gesture that makes a big impact. Microsoft now supports a Name Pronunciation feature that helps users record and share how their name is pronounced—making communication more respectful and inclusive.
1. What is name pronunciation?
Name Pronunciation is a feature in Microsoft 365 platform that allows users to record the correct pronunciation of their name. This recording is then made available on their profile card, so others can listen and learn how to say it correctly.
2. What is the use of It?
✅ Promotes Inclusion: Helps create a respectful and welcoming environment.
🗣️ Improves Communication: Reduces awkwardness and mispronunciations.
🤝 Builds Trust: Shows that you care enough to say someone’s name correctly.
🌍 Supports Diversity: Especially useful in global teams with varied linguistic backgrounds.
3. How to enable it from the admin side
Admins can enable this feature via the Microsoft 365 Admin Center:
1. Go to https://admin.microsoft.com and sign in.
2. Navigate to Settings → Org settings.
3. Select the Security & privacy tab.
4. Find and click on Name pronunciation.
5. Check the box: “Turn on and allow name pronunciation”.
6. Click Save.
⏳ Note: It may take around 24hours up to 7 days for the change to take effect across Microsoft 365.
4. How users can set It from their side
Once enabled by the admin, users can follow these steps:
1. Open Microsoft Outlook (web)
2. Click on the Sent Items
3 Click on your profile
4. Look for the “Name pronunciation” section
5. Click “Record name” and speak clearly. The maximum duration is of 10 seconds
User can also set the pronunciation from MS Teams
The recording will now appear on your profile card for others to hear.
5. Conclusion
The Name Pronunciation feature is a valuable tool that fosters clear communication and promotes inclusivity in the workplace. By utilizing this feature, individuals and organizations demonstrate respect for personal identity and cultural diversity—ensuring that every name is acknowledged correctly and respectfully.
