What’s in a name? A friend and I were marvelling at how a presenter to a group of 50 new people was able to remember almost everyone’s name after only one meeting. I feel terrible when I can’t remember someone’s name because I know how much it means when someone remembers my name.
In the 90s you may have watched the TV show “Cheers.” When one of the show’s regular patron’s entered the bar, everyone greeted him loudly shouting, “Norm!” I’ve had that experience and when your name is remembered, you feel honoured, special and important.
Since that is true, and if people are important to me, then I need to find a better way to remember their names. My friend came to the rescue and a couple days after our conversation she sent me the solution she found in a magazine. I read it, found an occasion to practice it and it worked! I’d like to share it with you, so here’s my version of the “Name Game.”
Decide ahead of time that you will play the “Name game”
Choose a way that your brain can connect a name to something like:
Rhyme (e.g. Pam – Jam)
Starts with same letter/sound (e.g. Alfie – Elephant)
Person or the name reminds you of something (Anne – Queen)
As soon as you are introduced, say their name aloud back to them (Nice to meet you “Ken”) and then in your mind, attach their name to one of the methods above.
Last week I presented at a workshop and was introduced to a number of new people. Here is how I remembered some of their names.
Queen Anne: I chose “Queen” because of the name and the proper, put together look of the person.
Eila, Iris: I chose “Iris” because of the blue/purple colour she was wearing and because the flower started with the same sound as her name.
Jewelry Judy: I chose “Jewelry” because she was wearing a sparkly necklace and earrings and the word started with the same letter as her name.
This was the first time I had ever tried the “Name Game” and not only did I remember everyone’s name without mistake, I also found that I connected with each person as well! So next time you meet someone new, try playing the “Name Game” not only will you remember their name, you may also make a lifelong connection!
Vicky Trill
