My name is Christine, but when I introduce myself, many of the times the person returns my name back at me as “Kristina” or “Chris”. Funny since when I was in 7th grade, a late bloomer, not allowed to wear makeup, with my boy style haircut so my “rattail” could look longer- I actually wanted to go by Chris. Now, I actually do not prefer it. But oddly enough, I don’t mind when my closest friends call me that. Hmmm
But learning, remembering and properly pronouncing other peoples’ names is more than just good manners, it’s good business and smart sales and service. What’s in a name? Everything! A person’s name is the sweetest word in their “dictionary.”
When you refer to someone by their name, they feel noticed, appreciated, and not just another number. It’s a constant challenge to find ways on how to remember people’s names, especially when you just meet them for a quick moment!
When I was in high school, I took a Dale Carnegie course, taught by our social economics teacher- oddly enough- his name escapes me! I know it was Italian, and was a Mr D! at least if I saw him, I can at least get by! ha!
One of the techniques I learned in that course was to do a name association with the person themselves. So nothing that could easily change that the next time you see them, if they weren’t wearing that same scarf you won’t remember their name. But something about them, their mannerisms, what they remind you of, their quirkiness.
So if Tom was introduced to me- and he had a beard, was a big guy, very comfortable and warm demeanor…I might think of “Tom Cat” Tom is a Cat. Meow!- repeat that name over and over.
Anne has red curly hair and some freckles- Raggedy Anne!
Now, I am not perfect, but do pride myself on remembering names. I train groups up near 40 and 50- and my goal is to remember their names within our first 30 mins.
I also use their names frequently back to them in my training. If I mistake their name- I ask them to correct me and I won’t forget again.
Here are some additional tips I’ve used in my years:
1 ) When you hear someone’s name repeat it out loud as soon as possible in conversation.
2) Append it to the beginning or ending of your greeting to that person: “It’s was so nice to meet you Sue” or “Jack, how nice to meet you.”
3) Make written notes to yourself, at the time or later. Don’t tax your memory. Notate on the back of their business card or in your PDA or notebook in the car.
4) Learn the story behind the person’s name. When you have a story with the person, they become more “real” and you will connect that with them.
5) Ask for help with complicated names or ones in a foreign tongue. It’s not an insult to them, they would actually prefer it!
What’s in a name? Gold. Learning, using, and properly pronouncing friends, family, acquaintances, or customers’ names is a great first step to building solid relationships built on trust, respect and admiration. Be a winner at the name game!