Have you ever heard anybody (perhaps even you) offer unsolicited information by saying publicly “I’m not good at remembering names.”
I know you have heard it, and I know you might even have said it about yourself. I know I have. Well believe it or not I recently woke up at 4 am thinking about this shortcoming and deciding right then and there to do something about it.
Why can people remember how to tie their shoes, ride a bike, recite the National Anthem and bake Lasagna without giving it a second thought? But when it comes to remembering a one or two-syllable word attached to a huge frame with hair, clothing and a distinct personality they automatically shut down and play stupid?
Early in this article, I admitted that I was as guilty as the next person so don’t think I am throwing stones. It is a popular error when it comes to social behavior. Let’s review some simple techniques in name and face recognition that can help us build our business.
“Hi. My name is Mike. I am glad to meet you.” As soon as the word “you” is sounded out the receiver more often than not, has already forgotten who they’re talking to. There are a number of theories on this, but the one I endorse is when the receiver is too busy thinking about what they are going to say next. As a result, they shut down and instantly become disinterested and unaware of what is being said.
Ladies, gentlemen, young people and AARP members, it is time we collectively decide to “cut the nonsense.” It is not that hard to remember somebody’s (anybody’s) name.
If I asked you to remember the word “red” and in three hours asked you to recall the color, 100% of you would say the color “red.” If I used an example from the movie “Jaws” and the next day asked you what movie I referenced the day before, 100% of you would remind me that it was from the movie “Jaws.” This is proof positive that you do not have a memory malfunction. It simply tells me that you were listening and made the connection with a color you may or may not like and a movie you may or may not have seen.
The same holds true with introductions. Simple solution: Become interested. If only for a few sentences or two. Tune in and actively listen for the “sound” of the person’s name. Jim. Betty. Ned. Joe. Barbara. Ann. Tony. Fred. Jason.
Repeat the sound of their name in your very next sentence. “Jim, it is nice to meet you. Apparently, your parents were lacking imagination when they named you Jim. Sorry bub. Them are the breaks.” No, don’t say that. But do repeat the name immediately to help you focus on the connection.
Then, make a silent attempt to tie their name with some aspect of their visage. (I’m not sure what “visage” means but when used in the last sentence it sure makes me sound like I know what I am talking about.)
** I just looked it up. Visage = Appearance. It works.
For example. “My name is Mike.“ Since I speak for a living you might remember me as the guy who often is seen holding a “microphone.” Get it? Mic?
Barbara might have long brown hair and looks a lot like (or sounds like) Barbara Streisand. Ken sounds like Kenny Rogers but without the beard. Joe’s shoes could use a shine and the baseball player “Shoeless Joe Jackson” comes to mind. You will never forget Joe’s name again. Just don’t call him Kenny.
SO HERE YOU HAVE IT; MY 5 TIPS ON REMEMBERING PEOPLE’S NAMES ONCE AND FOR ALL.
- Show a sincere interest in the people you meet by remembering their name.
- Make a memory connection between their name by using a hook.
- Repeat their name throughout the rest of your discussion.
- Practice this skill like you do any other skill.
- Don’t call me Mark. I make a living holding a mic. I am Mike.
Remembering people’s names is going to set you apart from the competition. It is going to do you more good than you could ever imagine. This skill is second to none when trying to distance yourself from your competition.
Mike Marchev is always looking for a few more proactive travel professionals to join his Sales and Marketing Club, mike@mikemarchev.com.
*** You want more to think about? Check out my weekly podcast (Miked Up Marchev). Also listed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google, and iHeartRadio.
