I just went to a conference and it was bad. I forgot the names of people I met not more than 15 minutes later. I felt terrible that I didn't know their name while they knew mine.
Do you all know of any good tips for remembering names?
Ask HN: How do you remember names?
1–10 of 20 posts
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#2I dont
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#3When I start a new job, I take notes on everyone's name, along with a coded physical description. (coded, in case anyone else reads it they won't be offended, usually just the first letter of the descriptive word I'm using)
However, that only works with 5-10 people, not a large group.
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#4Not sure if this works for everyone but I try to say their name out loud at least once or twice when they introduce themselves then if it's a name of someone I already know, I mentally try to picture that person next to this new person.
Alternatively before parting ways, I'll try to say their name again for good measure or be honest and ask them for their name again and let them know I have a terrible memory
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#5Most of the time you don't actually "forget" names, your brain never even registers them to begin with. Next time someone introduces themselves to you take a moment to stop worrying about what to say next and actually focus on the name. It helps if you link that name to a distinct physical property of the person in your mind. I _highly_ recommend reading "You Can Have an Amazing Memory: Learn Life-Changing Techniques and Tips from the Memory Maestro"[0]. I followed the techniques described in that book and the result absolutely blew my mind.
[0] http://www.amazon.com/You-Have-Amazing-Memory-Life-Changing/...
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#61) Set a goal and remember at least that. 3 people for example.
2) Repeat their names in conversation to show reinforce the memory and show you are capable of remembering names
3) Dont be shy about asking someone their name again. We all forget. Can't ask twice though, thats bad
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#7Pay attention.
If you have to try to pay attention your not doing it right
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#8Associate the name with something you know. I make a mental note and associate right after the person says their name. The problem is that you aren't paying attention and you need to force your mind to remember. Use strong memories for the association.... tv shows you love, etc.
Best of luck!
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#9[deleted]
Re: Ask HN: How do you remember names?
#10I just grab their face, stare into their eyes, and repeat their name 7 times. Funny thing is, people don't seem to have trouble remembering my name either :)