One of the most difficult (and often times embarrassing) occurrences is not remembering someone’s name. However, remembering names is not only beneficial, it is important and respectful. Here are 11 tips on doing just that.
- Understand the importance of using another person’s name. “There is no sound so sweet as the sound of one’s own name” – William Shakespeare
- Pay attention and actively listen when someone introduces themselves. So often we are thinking two or three sentences in advance or anticipating how a conversation will go that we drown out the person introducing themselves to us.
- Ask for the name again if you don’t hear it correctly the first time. Or even if you did hear it correctly. Repetition is awesome in this case.
- Make associations with the person and other people you know. Create a mental picture. When you need to remember the new person’s name again, you can usually remember the mental picture you had of this person,
- Study the person’s face or other distinctive features. Example, “Mary with hairy lips.”
- Write it down (if you have the capability of doing so).
- Repeat their name after introduction. “Nice to meet you Pocahontas.”
- Immediately ask the person a question. While they are talking you can repeat their name over and over in your mind.
- If the situation allows say their name silently. They won’t be able to hear you but you are reinforcing it in your mind.
- Conclude your interaction by repeating their name. “So nice chatting with you, Jeff.”
- Spell out their name. “So nice to meet you Karen. Is that spelled with a K – Karen?”
If you want to leave a positive impression on someone — to make them feel noticed, important, and valued — say their name.
