When someone introduces themselves, do you remember his or her name? Is it important to do so? If you are like most people, within five minutes you will be scrambling to remember who you just met. You can improve your success rate in remembering.
Is remembering a person’s name necessary? After all, most people forget within seconds of being introduced. Why even bother going through the trouble?
To answer that question, ask yourself if it makes a difference when others remember your name. Knowing someone’s name shows that you took the time and that you care. It is a personal touch in the communication process. What about if you are planning on having a relationship with that person for several years- looking to enroll at a school.
This skill is also key in networking.
This is one of the tenets of the classic book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie. The book was written in the early-to-mid 20th century. It remains a big selling item to this day. Although the stories are rather dated, the concepts are eternal. Remembering and using someone’s name will get you noticed.
When you refer to people by their name, you instantly set the conversation to a comfortable and personable tone. It’s familiar and friendly. The people who you refer to by name are quite appreciative that you not only remembered their name but that you use it often. When you are on the phone with a potential or enrolled parent, use their name throughout the conversation.
If you aren’t good at remembering names, here are some tips.
- First, when introduced, say the person’s name as soon as they say it. For instance, if the person’s name is Sally, say, “it’s nice to meet you, Sally.” Try to use her name quickly again as you converse with her but try not to do this in excess. Make it as natural as possible.
- You could also state that you know someone with the same name as the people you meet. This can get them talking about why they were so named (after the mother, father, etc.) When the conversation is complete, use the name again. Using the example above, you could say, “it was a pleasure to speak with you, Sally.”
- It’s a good idea to keep a notepad with you at all times for when you meet new people. Shortly after your conversation ends, take a few seconds to record the person’s name so that you can refer to it later if necessary. Try to remember without the notepad, but you have it for reference, just in case you forget.
Use these tips to help you remember names. You will brighten peoples’ day when you not only remember but use their names.
