How to remember NAMES –

(A Repeat topic)

          Some of the most influential  people have succeeded because they were able to remember and recall names.

        A good memory for names is an asset that can make a difference to your career.

         Master the art of remembering names – it will prove to be one of your most valuable assets. 

         Most people are good at remembering faces but many are embarrassed when introducing someone because they have forgotten their name.

        Many  people owe their career success to their ability to recall names and details.

A handful of tips to help you remember people’s names

* Meet and repeat

        Discuss a person’s name with them.

        If you don’t hear their name clearly ask them to repeat it.

         “That’s an unusual name. How is it spelt? Are you related to John Higgleston from Sydney?”

        “I was at school with boy with that name. He was a special friend.”

* Jot down the name                         

          Carry a small notebook and make a note of  new names so you can enter them in your diary, or into your address list.  

                By writing the name down you will increase the chances of remembering it.

        This is especially important if you travel, if you have staff in many centres, or if you are involved with national or international organisations or companies.

* Repeat the name often

          Keep using the name in the conversation and especially as you farewell them.

         The more you can use a name the greater the chance of remembering it.

*Make connections

        Associate the name with an object  such as Foot, Baker, Wood, Wolf,  Ford.

           Longer names can often be divided into memorable sections Green field, John son, Holy oake.

*  Focus on the person and the name 

        Concentrate and make a real effort to connect their name and physical features. Mr Hook may like fishing for example Mr Baldwin may have little hair.

        If possible, ask for a business card to reinforce the image. Look at the card and read it out aloud.

        Often by making a note on the back of the card it can serve as a memory jogger. “Has two sons . Loves cricket . Wife named Mary.”

        People will be flattered when you greet them by name at a later stage if you haven’t seen them for some time.  Especially if you can remember some details about their family or their interests.

          From today make a special effort to remember names. You will be well rewarded for your efforts. 

-Geoffrey Moss

“A person’s name is the most important sound they can hear.”

. Source: “Persuasive Ways. ‘Tricks of the Trade’ to get your ideas across.” First published by Moss Associates Ltd. New Zealand and in Chinese by Shanghai People’s Publishing House, also  published as “Secrets of Persuasion” by Cengage Learning Asia, Singapore and as an e-book available from Amazon.com.