Ok, this is one of those times when I feel I've lost all perspective and I might need a slap, but...

   I started insisting that folks use my new name in early 2009; It was legally changed to Jessica in May, 2009. In the beginning, especially at work, I would tell people that "Jess" was Ok for then... I figured, since my look was still a bit androgynous, that "Jess" was relatively non gender specific and it would get those who knew "him" used to my new identity gradually. My employer issued a new name badge and things went rather well...

  Well it kindof backfired. On the daily work schedule, ever since, it's "Jess." On memos that involve me, it's "Jess." On greeting cards addressed to me, even from close family, it's, "Jess." When I'm introduced to people, in or out of work, it's "Jess." I chose my name very carefully and it means alot to me. I don't mind the nickname at all... but in some situations I would like my full name used, especially when it comes to introductions. I've tried to hint it to people (I don't want to sound like a crybaby) but they don't catch it. It's like my name doesn't count as much as others' normally do.

  Sometimes I feel like my name will always be in parentheses. I don't feel slighted when people who have only known Jessica use it.... but when certain people say, "Jess," there's always a little accent on the name, like everyone except me is in on the joke.

  Does anyone know what I mean? Has anyone felt this? Sometimes I think that, in the grand scheme of things, I should just be glad they don't call me "*****" anymore and I should stop whining. Do I need a smack? ;-)

 

Well, if you don't like the nickname, say 'hey, actually I go by Jessica, not Jess' Just like people say 'I go by Jess, not Jessica'

It's not an unusual thing to request/deny a nickname. My uncle goes by Billy instead of William, and my girlfriend prefers 'Elaine' and not 'Lainey' as me and a friend have dubbed her

So if you're worried about sounding like a crybaby, don't! It's a commonplace thing that everybody who has the possibility of a nickname goes through. Thomas becomes Tommy, Joshua becomes Josh, Samantha becomes Sam, etc. etc.

Our names are a growing thing. I have a friend called Micheal, he hates being called Mike. Must happen a hundred times a day. Hi, I'm Micheal. Pleased to meet you Mike.

In your case when introduced as Jess, I'd just step in smile and say Hi I'm Jessica, and do the normal social pleasantries for the situation. Also remember most people forget a name in the first 30 seconds in the workplace, depending upon the line of work etc. Reinforcing names is common and woman remember names and relationships far better than men (generalistion I know).  So just re introduce yourself. Also change your email name to what you wish, according to work policy. So instead of being: Ms J .Gorgeous, or Ms Jess Gorgeous, You are now Ms Jessica Gorgeous. It doesn't take that long for people to catch on. Particularly for the woman and the men never knew anyway.

Typical male conversation, I'm looking for a Ms J Gorgeous, Oh she's over there blonde with the big tits. Or some other helpful description. I'm looking for Jessica, Oh damn this could be a boss, boyfriend or husband. She's the young lady in the office to the right just ask for Jessica.

Sorry if that went a bit overboard

Take home message just remind people. And if some one asks, Oh I just feel more Jessica than Jess. End of explanation, every woman will understand.

Cindy, who has been Cyndy, then Cyndi then Cindi, then Cindy. The guys thought I was a stripper. I just like my name and to be a little different.

What is in a name?

Cindy

i tried variations of my old male name but everyone just shortened it back to its male version so I finally chose a female one that can't be shortened or masculinised.

Quote from: Morgan on December 15, 2010, 09:45:00 PM
Well, if you don't like the nickname, say 'hey, actually I go by Jessica, not Jess' Just like people say 'I go by Jess, not Jessica'

If you can, this seems a really good suggestion.

I definitely did feel this some. My old name was Jeremy so I told people they could call me Jer still if they wanted (but I meant temporarily).

it's funny though, the people that were all supportive used Jerica so it seemed like the ones who weren't quite comfortable were the ones still saying Jer.