Successful Techniques for Remembering Names and Faces

You are ready to move on. No more forgetting names and faces. Here are three tips and techniques for developing the skill of remembering, instantly.

Practice. Practice. Practice. They say that practice, again and again, is the way to get to Carnegie Hall. Well it's also the way to remember names and faces. When you meet somebody, engage them in a brief conversation. Repeat their name at least two or three times in the conversation. Let's say you've just met a new client. You start out, of course, by saying, "Nice to meet you Harry. Is this your first time in this store?" Later, you say, "What are your goals for this purchase, Harry?" Or, "How did you find out about us, Harry?" Or, "Harry, I'm really impressed by your background. How long have you been in the business?" Whatever. You just sneak his name in wherever you can. He'll like hearing his name.

This memory technique is as old as the hills, but it works.

C rebates an Unforgettable Image. This trick's also in all the books on memory techniques. If you want to remember somebody's name, attach a memorable, descriptive word to the name. The word will help you create an unforgettable image that will help bring up the name. Since this trick is all in your head, you don't have to worry if the word is silly, disrespectful, or even outrageous. In fact, the more outrageous, the better the technique may work. For instance, say you meet a plump guy named Fred. Naturally, you'll remember him as "Fat Freddie." Or your girlfriend introduces you to a cheerful woman named Mary. In your head, call her "Merry Mary." Or perhaps a new co-worker named Betty arrives at the next desk. Since she cycles to work, naturally she's Bicycle Betty. As long as the descriptive words help you remember the name, it's worth the extra effort. And you'll have a little fun while you're at it!

The Double Reward. At last, you actually remember a name! There's a double reward each time that happens. First, the person you remember feels a momentary "happy blip" when you mention his or her name. This blip is especially noticeable when you haven't talked to them for a while. Then there's the happy blip you get when you remember a name. Both of you get a boost to your self-esteem. Two rewards for one success. Such a deal!

So, when you meet someone, focus on their name, create an amusing image to help remember the name, and voila! You'll remember the name and find another reason to believe in yourself. Keep doing this, and names and faces will come to you instantly!


------

André Thunestvedt has made it his mission to help others improve their memory. On his website http://www.How-Improve-Memory.com , André provides free information and resources for anyone who wants to remember things better. Check out his website for more great memory improvement tips.