One of the most overlooked opportunities for building collaboration and networking opportunities at most big meetings, retreats and conferences is using name tags for more than just names.

Instead of the traditional pin-on badge, rethink the name tag and make it the size of a concert credential.

Use your larger tag real estate to identify the wearer’s practice group, geographic location and even years in the firm, using easy-to-read-at-a-distance icons and colors.

Add a seven-word bio that lawyers create before the event in a firm-wide competition.  If each attendee already has their agenda set, add their room/table assignments so they’ll always know where they’re going.

Here’s one I created for a 300 partner retreat last year:

If you’re willing to rethink the name tags at your next event, please send an image my way.  I’d love to see what you’ve come up with!