JS Tip 582: Remembering Names

Two weeks ago, we talked about MBWA and suggested you learn, remember, and use names. 

Okay . . . the next question is “How do I do that?” These suggestions may help.

Suggestion One: Clear your brain. All too often, we’re not paying attention when we introduce ourselves and the other person introduces herself. We’re thinking about our appearance (Our hair? Our teeth? Our collar?) and the other person’s name blows past us. Focus on the name. Grab it.  

Suggestion Two: Drill the name into your brain. As soon as she says, “My name is Stella,” you repeat and repeat and repeat the name in your brain: “Stella Stella Stella Stellastellastellastellastella.” 

Suggestion Three: Immediately use the name in a response. 

“Stella, it’s good to meet you. Thank you for coming.” 

Find a way to use the name in the conversation.

“‘Stella’ means ‘star,’ doesn’t it?”

“That’s a beautiful name. How did your parents choose that name?”  

“You’re probably aware of this, but there was a great movie about a strong woman named ‘Stella Dallas.’ Did you know that?” 

Suggestion Four: Write the name down. If you’re leading a meeting, pass around a roster and use the roster names to prepare a seating chart. Study the chart to refresh your memory.

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

And remembering that person’s  name is respect and caring.

We love this stuff.