Ask the Expert - Maiden Names and Nicknames

Martin the Marketing Guy - Ask the Expert - Maiden Names and Nicknames

As a wordsmith, I always attempt to use grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary correctly. Unfortunately, there are times when we simply let Microsoft Word do our editorial work. One of my favorite sources for correct usage is Mignon Fogarty, aka Grammar Girl. I love her work!

Recently, I was talking with a colleague, who uses a nickname instead of her given name. She had been advised to change her resume, putting her nickname in parentheses and moving it to the end of her name. OUCH! Advice from a well-meaning colleague – but unfortunately the wrong advice.

The correct way to add your maiden name is within parentheses. Here is a good explanation:

Maiden Names

On first reference, insert the maiden name in parentheses. Thereafter, refer to the individual by her maiden name. However, if she continues to use her maiden name in addition to her married name, use both on second reference as well (using a hyphen if appropriate):

Examples

Julie (Johnson) Smith returned for Homecoming activities last fall. Dr. Julie Smith and Dr. Laura Smith-Johnson greeted Mrs. Clark when she arrived on campus.

Another example of maiden name inclusion is with née.

One term sometimes used is the French word 'née' (meaning 'born', literally, but referring to the maiden name in this context). Hence:

Mrs Jane Smith (née Jones)

Mrs Cynthia Corning (née Stratton-Longbottom)

If you want to add your maiden name to your LinkedIn profile, check out this article.

As for a nickname, the proper way to include your nickname is within quotation marks.  For example:

Nicknames

 When inserted in the middle of a person’s actual name, a nickname should appear in quotation marks.

Henry M. “Hank” Paulson Jr.

Greg “The Shark” Norman

I hope that helps clarify the proper use of nicknames and maiden names. Please add your thoughts and comments below.