How to Remember Names

What's in a name? According to Shakespeare a rose would still be just as sweet. But it turns out - a lot! Names are oftentimes very hard to remember, partly because we don't really care as much as we should. I know I rarely remember them right away. Our minds will be elsewhere when we hear "Hi my name is Allison!" or "meet Robert our new IT guy." So let us find out how to fix this habit of dropping names, and not those of famous people either.

When you are introduced to someone try to repeat that person's name. Not parrot-style, but in a tactful way ("Hi I'm John." .. "So what sports are you into, John?"). When you make the conscious effort to repeat the person's name, you are more likely to remember it. When you are actively engaging your mind, you form stronger memories.

Think of a funny, memorable, easy-to-recall mnemonic with that person's name. Brandon is tall, it's tough to land-on his head. Jennifer would look nice in fur. Bill always carries bills and also resembles Bill Clinton. Adele knows a lot about Dells and hence, computers.

Another method is to take out old-fashioned paper & pencil. Write a mnemonic blurb to remember the name too. After a party or conference, take notes! Perhaps follow-up to solidify the names even more.

Remember to be ready so that when you meet a new person, you clear your mind and focus. We may be very preoccupied, but remember that this new person may change your life in a positive, meaningful way. You are more likely to impress someone if you recall their name!

It has been said that nothing is more sweet to a person than the sound of their own name, and there is certainly truth to that. It is often flattering to be addressed with one's name. Perhaps moreso with nice, mellifluous names (like Jasmine, Alexandra, and Ella), but everyone appreciates the importance of their own name.

Think of how important your name is, and how you feel when someone addresses you by it. Also, remember that botching names can be seen as offensive. I still remember how I called a Latin friend "Jose" when his name was "Luis"... let's just say he was displeased. And for good reason!

So there you go friends, motivation to remember names. As most skills, you need to get in the habit of focusing on it. Whether we like it or not, it is part of life.