7 Communication Tricks When You Can't Remember Someones Name



Ahh, summertime! A time to get out, mingle, socialize, meet new people, and connect with old friends and acquaintances. While you're out there shaking hands and kissing babies you may run into some people who you've met but just can't remember their name. Well, here's 7 tips from Gretchen Rubin's book "The Happiness Project" and a couple from yours truly. 


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1) The "I know your name but I'm blocked" Dodge: "I keep wanting to call you 'Dave,' but I know tha's not right."

2) The "Of course I know you - In fact, I want all your information" Dodge: "Hey, I'd love to get your card."

3) The "Tip of my tongue" Dodge: "I know your name, but I'm blanking right now."

4) The "You're brilliant!" Dodge: "Wow, you have a terrific memory. I can't believe you remember my name from that meeting six months ago."

5) The "Sure I remember you" Dodge: "Remind me - what's your last name?" If you ask a person for his last name, he's likely to repeat both names. "Doe, John Doe."

6) The "One sided introduction" Dodge: "Let me introduce you to Pat," you say to Nameless One. You introduce the two and say Pat's name. Usually Nameless One will volunteer a name.

Remember that people might not remember your name. Err on the side of re-introducing yourself. And don't be offended it someone forgets your name!

BONUS: The "Nonchalantly read their name tag" Dodge:
When talking to them (or preferably before) subtly spy their name tag.

BONUS #2: This one's my favorite: JUST ASK! No dodging at all, approach it head on with grace and confidence.
"I'm sorry, but I forgot your name." or "I'm sorry, but what's your name again?" or "I'm sorry, but I'm bad at names. What is your name?"


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There you have it! All of these are tricks I've used before in the many years of sales, meetings, events, mixers, parties, or just simply running into someone when I'm out and about!

The first seven I nicked from Gretchen Rubin's book "The Happiness Project" (not to say that she created them) and the last two bonus tricks I added myself (not to say that I created those!).

Now go out and move more confidently at your next company picnic (or whatever you have going) and not stress about not saying 'hi' to someone because you remember meeting them, but can't recall their name.


All the best,
~Craig



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