Walkinshaw Coaching

Are you one of the many people that struggle with remembering names? If you, like me, use networking as a way to build your business, remembering names is critical. Here are 7 tips that will make remembering names easier.

1.  Pay attention!

Have you ever realized you have forgotten someone’s name almost immediately after being introduced? Often we are so concerned with what we are going to say that we stop listening. Take time to focus 100% of your attention on what the other person is saying, not just the name. Think about what you might want to ask this person based on what is being said. (You can use this in Tip 2.)

2.  Repeat the name frequently

Look for opportunities to repeat the name 3 or 4 times during the initial conversation. For example, after John introduces himself, reply “John, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” When asking a question about what was said, start with his name, “John, tell me more about….” Repetition plays an important role in memory. Why do you think you remember silly facts you learned in grade school?

3.  Write down the name

This is especially effective if you are a visual learner. Have a paper and pen handy and jot down the person’s name soon after hearing it. Or rewrite the name on the back of his/her business card. Want to have some fun? Try visualizing the name on his/her forehead as you listen to him/her speak.

4.  Associate the name with something/someone

Look for a distinguishing feature and combine the name and feature in a sentence, “Sally has piercing green eyes.” You can also associate the person you are meeting with another person you know with the same name, “Jim’s laugh reminds me of Jim Carey.” It’s natural for some people to remind us of people we already know, “You remind me of….”

5.  Introduce the person

Introducing the person is opportunity to repeat the name while sharing what you learned about the person. This combines tips 1 & 2 above. In addition, you are helping the person to meet new people and continue networking. All good!

6.  Keep notes

As your network grows, you may find remembering names becomes more difficult. Develop a system to keep notes about individuals you meet that will help you to remember them. This can be done manually, perhaps by writing notes on the back of business cards, or by using contact management software. Prior to attending events, review your notes and try to visualize each person.

7. If you forget a name, ASK!

No matter how hard you try, you are bound to forget a name from time to time. When this happens, be honest. Let the person know, “I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name.” Often the discomfort you feel by admitting this actually helps you not to forget the name again.

Try out these 7 tips and see which ones work best for you. I’d love to hear about your experiences and find out any additional tips you have discovered.  Please feel free to share them below.