Remembering Names

There's no better way to convey that someone is important to you than remembering his or her name. Yet, particularly in a job search, when you're making lots of contacts, your brain may need to work overtime to remember everyone you meet. A few time-tested tricks can help.

Always repeat the name as you're introduced. When someone introduces herself to you, your appropriate response should be: "Hi Lara Hall. I'm Tory Johnson, and it's nice to meet you." Try to say the first name a few more times in a conversation, and definitely repeat it as you're wrapping up. If it's a difficult name, don't be shy about asking how to spell it or even the origin.

Association is a key tool in memorization. Do you know someone else with the same name? Is there a characteristic of the person you can identify with the name? Some examples include short Sally, long-haired Harriet, or freckled Jane. Try to form a picture in your mind of the person, a defining trait (gorgeous gray hair, dazzling green eyes, or long, lovely nails) and envision their name over the image.