[NFBV-Fairfax] 8 Tips for Remembering Important Names

[John Bailey]

8 Tips for Remembering Important Names

The advantages of being able to remember names are well known. Just ask someone who is looking for a job and is trying to remember those who can help them find one.


Unfortunately for many, remembering names can be a  challenge. It doesn't have to be that way.

Lots of memory experts have given advice about what it takes to be able to remember the important names in your life. Below are 8 tips from the experts you can use to help improve your memory so you can have the contacts who can  enhance your personal and professional life.

1. Know your motivation.
Remembering someone's name requires a purpose. So, have a reason for wanting to remember someone. This motivation will help the name 'stick' into memory.
2. Focus on the person you are talking to.
Don't get distracted by what is going on around you while talking to someone you want to remember. Focus on the person concentrating on not only what the person says. But, also on other memorable characteristics . This will be explored later.
3. Repeat the name of the person you just met.
Be an active participant. Repeat the person's name back to them several times during your conversation. Actions reinforce memories.
4. Don't have another conversation in your head.
Speaking of being distracted, when listening to someone in order to remember them, keep the inner discussions to a minimum. Inner and outer distractions dilute your efforts to remember.
5. Focus on a particular feature of a new person's face.
In short, use some interesting characteristic  of the person to help reinforce the process for remembering their name. For example, do they speak with an accent? Is there something about their appearance that makes them stand out?
6. Break down complicated names with mnemonic devices.
Ask the person to spell their name while you visualize the spelling. Also break the name into syllables and create memorable phrases with them.

7. Repeat a new name when you say goodbye.
When departing, say the name one last time to help reinforce the memory you are building.
8. Go back over names at the end of the day.
At the end of the event, go through all the new names you learned. Repetition makes memories stronger.


It just takes a bit of effort and some well known techniques to enhance your ability to remember names. The Fairfax Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind was founded to help spread the well known techniques of blindness that have brought literacy, independence, and confidence to its members.

The Fairfax Chapter meets the Third-Thursday of each month and you are invited. Each month, we have programs that not only entertain but also educate.

For more information about the chapter and its activities, contact John Bailey at john_bailey17 at hotmail.com<mailto:john_bailey17 at hotmail.com>

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