Rising To The Top - David LaManna

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STRATEGIES FOR REMEMBERING NAMES
by David LaManna

1. Hear the Name: When you are introduced to someone, pay close attention and listen carefully. Quietly repeat the name to yourself.

2. Spell the Name: If the name if fairly common, such as "Smith", spell it out to yourself a few times. If the name is uncommon, ask the person to spell it for you.

3. Comment on the Name: Invite the person to tell you a little more about the name. You will not only flatter the person by making this request but it will etch the name deeper into your memory.

4. Use the Name During the Conversation: Even if the conversation is brief, use the name as often as possible. That will reinforce it into your memory.

5. Repeat the Name When Departing: Always say, "Goodby Nancy", not just "Goodby". It is not only a common courtesy to bid farewell to someone by name, but it will help you toward your goal of recalling the name in the future.

6. Make an Association with the Name: Connect a new acquaintance with an activity or an easy-to-remember object or another person.