Forgetting names is a common problem. However, that doesn’t make it any less embarrassing. It can make you seem unprofessional or disinterested.
So how can you train yourself to remember people’s names? Here are five simple tricks that could help you deal with this issue.
1. Try to Relax a Little
Social situations can be very stressful. Forgetfulness will make you even tenser. But the harder you try to stay on top of things, the more stressed you will become.
Experts say that stress is very bad for your memory. Hence, it’s in your best interest to take it easy.
2. Rehearse Names at Home
The widespread use of social media is useful to people with slight memory problems.
If you’re invited to a gathering, try to find out who will be present. Use the internet to learn and remember people’s names. This is particularly important if you’re preparing for a conference or other professional event.
3. When You Meet Someone New, Repeat Their Name
You already know that repeating words is the key to memorization.
But there are other reasons why this approach is useful. After all, calling people by their name will show that you are paying attention. You will also make sure you’re not mispronouncing the name in question.
4. Focus on the Eyes
Paying attention to the eyes can help you remember people’s names. After all, eyes don’t change much over time. They will help you recall a name a few years down the line.
5. Mnemonics Can Help
It is far easier to remember things if they come with associations. So find a way to associate a person’s name with something memorable about them. This is an effective approach to memorizing any important fact.