Episode 78 - 9 Smart Tips to Help You Remember Names
I’m often asked, “How do you remember so many names?” Here’s my strategy.
1. Never tell yourself you have a poor memory – one day your brain might believe it. Instead it’s smart to play a little game: Before you go to a party, tell yourself, “I’m going to remember 5 names.” When you get good at this you can up it. I’m at 35 now. Plan to listen intently for each name and plan to remember it.
2. If there is a roster for the meeting or event you are going to, look it over before you get there.
3. When you meet someone, state your name first — confidently and clearly.
4. If you didn’t catch his or her name, smile and ask again.
5. Look into the eyes and picture the name written on his/her forehead — in color — as you say the name aloud.
6. Look and listen for something “different” to serve as a memory jogger — curly hair, winning smile, deep voice — and combine name and characteristic, i.e., “curly Charlie,” “smiling Sharon,” or “baritone Barney.” Alliteration helps.
7. Try combining the name with the individual’s aura, such as playful, loud, reserved, shy, quiet — i.e., “loud Larry” or “quiet Katherine.”
8. Say the name quickly to lock it in your memory, such as, “Dr. Holmes, we were just talking about…”
9. Be sure to repeat the names several times during the event, such as, Thank you for complimenting my ability to remember names, Sharon. I appreciate it!”