Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game
By Deb Ammerman, Editor-in-Chief, Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine
As Editor-in-Chief of Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine, I meet dozens of new people every month—business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Each introduction is an opportunity to make a connection and build a relationship. But I’ll admit, remembering all those names can be challenging! In this article, I want to share some of my favorite tips and tricks for remembering names—strategies I’m still learning to implement while attending events, interviews, and networking groups. Trust me, when you recall someone’s name the next time you meet, it can make a world of difference in creating a lasting impression.
1. Make It Stick During Introductions
When someone introduces themselves, I focus entirely on their name. For example, if I meet “Rachel,” I’ll respond with, “It’s wonderful to meet you, Rachel!” Then, I’ll find a way to say it again: “Rachel, how long have you been in your line of work?” This repetition helps lock the name into memory.
2. Create Visual or Verbal Associations
A great trick is to pair a name with a mental image or rhyme. When I met a business owner named Mark, I imagined him leaving a “mark” on his community. Or, when I met Sarah at a conference, I thought of her name connected to sunshine—“Sarah, the sunny entrepreneur.” These small tricks work wonders!
3. Use Situational Cues
Linking names to the context in which you meet someone is another effective strategy. If I meet “Tom” at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, I’ll think of him as “Tom from the ribbon-cutting.” It’s easier to remember both the person and the event this way.
4. Take Quick Notes
After events, I jot down a few key details. For example, after meeting Lisa, who owns a bakery, I wrote, “Lisa—blue dress, owns Sweet Treats Bakery.” This habit ensures I’ll remember her and have something personal to mention the next time we meet.
5. Be Honest and Curious
If I forget someone’s name, I don’t panic. I simply say, “I’m so sorry, your face is familiar, but can you remind me of your name?” People appreciate honesty, and it gives me another chance to remember!
Practice Makes Perfect
Here’s a fun scenario: Imagine you’re at a networking mixer for small business owners. You meet Emily, who says she’s a yoga instructor. Immediately repeat: “Emily, how long have you been teaching yoga?” Then, create a mental image—Emily standing in a yoga pose. At the end of the event, jot down: “Emily, yoga instructor, wearing green jacket.”
Building relationships starts with something as simple as remembering names. These little efforts can leave a big impression, showing others that you value them and their story. Whether you’re meeting people at expos, interviews, or even a casual coffee shop, these tips will help you create stronger connections.
After all, in business and in life, it’s the personal touches that make the difference.
Happy networking!