Worried about how to memorise names? Some solutions

I've been running four networking workshops for businesses this week. On every workshop, someone has raised the question of how to memorise names. A real fear for many business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals in general and actually a skill which needs to be learnt.

So, here is my definitive guide to remembering people's names:

1. Use their name

After you have met someone, aim to say their name a couple of times. Such as:

"Good to meet you, Simon. What have you found useful so far about this event, Simon?

2. Don't be afraid to repeat it

If you don't hear the name properly, for example if the room is noisy, then don't be afraid to ask them to repeat it.

3. Make an association

As you meet someone, try to associate something with their name. For example:

• Suzy had an amazing orange handbag
• Tall Raj was due to get married
• Fiona with the quiet voice
• Mike, the serious rugby playing accountant

4. Further details

After you have finished meeting them, write on their business card some extra information about them.

5. Be positive

Stop telling yourself you are bad at remembering names. I used to think I was poor at remembering names - not because I was, but more because I could as a business owner literally meet hundreds of new people in a week. Inevitably, there were always going to be a few people I would meet months later who I would struggle to recall their name. If you tell yourself that you are good at remembering names - and use all the techniques in this blog post you will actually get immediately better at remembering names.

6. Don't stress

If you have forgotten someone's name, the sooner you mention it, the less embarrassing it gets. You may find that they have forgotten your name too! For example:

"I'm really sorry, but I've forgotten your name, would you mind repeating it?"

7. Double check

Names which are not from our native language are hard to remember. Check you have the pronunciation right - this will have two benefits. Firstly, you get to say the name a couple of times, and secondly you make sure you get their name right.

What are your personal tips for remembering names?