The Name Game

by EdgeLink on Mar 26, 2007 in Uncategorized

Do you ever run into people that you know, but can’t remember their names?
It happens to me all the time. Here are some tips that might help you next time you are out and run into “Whatsherface” or “Whatshisname”.

The first time you meet someone, be genuinely interested. If you miss the name the first time they say it, ask them to repeat it, they won’t mind. Then verify it by repeating it “Sue, so nice to meet you”. Picture their name written on their forehead or do a word association to what they look like. Sue is wearing a Blue sweater. Or you can picture writing their name out “S U E”. The most important thing is to at least use their name once during your conversation and then once again when you part, “Nice to have met you Sue”.

This all comes back around to you if you run into “Sue” again somewhere else, you will be able to remember her name. If you still are challenged by remembering her name you have two options:
1) Look delighted to see the person, say “Hey, how are you?” and then ask a friend later “what was her name?” or….
2) (with the same warmth) “Good to see you again, but I am drawing a blank on your name, I’m sorry” It is better to be honest with someone and people will appreciate it more if you just ask. And hopefully you will remember her name for next time.

All said and done, the best way to remember is Repetition, Repetition, Repetition…….