How to Remember Names

“A person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language.”

Dale Carnegie (1888-1955)
American writer and salesman

Remembering a name immediately establishes you as someone who listens… someone who cares… two very important characteristics in sales and life.

Here’s how…

1 – Give full attention (focus)

• Make a conscious effort to listen and remember.
• Introduce yourself first so you can give your full attention to others.
• Focus on physical characteristics to form a detailed impression.

2 – Repeat the name

• Repeat the name silently to yourself.
• Say the name within 20 seconds of the introduction to confirm it’s correct.
• Use the name again mid-conversation.
• Repeat the name when saying goodbye.
• Write it down after leaving.

3 – Make an association

• Connect the name with a famous person or image. Imagine a Jerry as sports agent Jerry Maguire or a Marilyn as Marilyn Monroe (or Marilyn Manson depending on the Marilyn)
• Come up with a rhyme (rap if it’s your thing) or alliteration associated with a physical attribute, unusual feature or overall impression of the person (Bob’s a slob… Dave needs a shave… Tall Tonya… Frank’s flat forehead).
• Picture the name written (in your favorite color) on the person’s forehead – a favorite trick of President Roosevelt (FDR), who, according to CNN, amazed his staff by remembering the names of nearly everyone he met.
• Imagine writing the name with your fingers while saying it silently to yourself (using very small movements so you don’t draw attention to your hand or make people think you’re sending a signal to a friend)