2 min read
Remembering names
Simple habits for remembering the people you meet, and what to do when you forget.
Slow down at the introduction
Names usually slip because the first moment is rushed. When someone introduces themselves, pause, listen and say their name back.
Using it once early in the conversation helps it stay.
Say: Nice to meet you, Sam.
Say: Sorry, could you say your name again? I want to get it right.
Say: Is that Kate with a K?
Attach it to something
Link the name to one detail about them: where they work, what they're excited about, how you met. A name with a story is much easier to recall.
Write it down afterwards
Before you go to sleep, add the people worth remembering to the People tab, with one thing you talked about. It takes a minute and makes following up far easier.
If you forget
Everyone forgets names. Saying so honestly is better than avoiding the person all evening.
- "I'm so sorry, I've completely forgotten your name."
- Introduce them to someone else and let them say their own name.
- Offer your own name again; they'll usually repeat theirs.