12 Ways to Remember People’s Names

Orginally published on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at 6:21 AM
by Todd Rhoades

Are you like me?  When you meet someone, you try really hard to remember their name; and yet ten seconds into the conversation you realize you've already forgotten it?  Argh.  Then the next time you see them they call you by name and you still have no clue what their name is; and they KNOW it because you purposefully don't say their name, or say something like "Hey, man" or something else horrible to cover your ignorance.  (I love it when people call me 'champ').

Well, Teena Stewart gives some practical advise over at Lifeway.com on how to remember people's names.  Here's what 'champ' had to say:

1. Repeat the name of the person who is being introduced.

• Say it aloud several times.
• Find excuses to use it in your conversation with the new acquaintance.

2. If you don’t think you heard the name correctly, ask the person to repeat it. Better yet, ask them to spell it.

3. Write the name down as soon as possible.

4. Make up a silly rhyme to go with the name.

5. Use memory tricks like opposite associations and “soundalikes.” Recently I met a gray-haired fellow named Chris Young. His name was easy to recall because physically he looked the opposite of young.

6. Practice good listening skills. Friends and family members may call out the mystery person’s name.

7. Still stumped? When the guest is out of earshot, ask his or her friend or relative for the person’s name.

8. Pay attention to your church’s print media. Bulletins and newsletters may provide clues.

9. Check out the church’s pictorial directory. Seeing the name in print alongside a picture makes it easier to remember.

10. Suggest that your church have a “Friendship Sunday” once a month. Be sure everyone wears a name tag.

11. Never assume that someone knows you after one introduction. Be willing to reintroduce yourself and ask his or her name in return.

12. Pray for better memory and name retention.

FOR DISCUSSION:  Do you have this problem?  How do you remember names?  Do you have any embarrassing stories to tell on the subject of forgetting people's names?

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