1 – Give full attention

  • 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.
  • Come up with a rhyme or alliteration associated with a physical attribute, unusual feature or overall impression of the person (Bob is a slob… Dave needs to 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).