A fastening element and method that utilizes a fastener or stamping which is capable of forming a fastening assembly by engagement with a self-tapping fastener is disclosed. The fastening element includes one or more indentations formed within a portion of the circumference of an unthreaded bore located within the fastening element. Each indentation has an edge that can have the same helix angle or pitch as the self-tapping fastener that it is to engage to serve as a guide to properly align the fastener within the bore. The indentations also assist formation of mating threads within the element by significantly reducing the required end load to start the tapping process.