Trouble remembering names? Try these tricks from a pro...

If you’ve surrendered to the notion that you’re just not good with names – don’t give up... 

Scott Hagwood, author of “Memory Power,” says there are a few simple tricks that can do wonders for your name recall. He says we should try at least one of these EVERY time you meet someone new:

• Alliteration is the stringing together of words that start with the same sound. When you first learn someone’s name, think of a characteristic that starts with the first letter of the person’s first name. For example, Hannah wears high heels…Tom is tall…or Donna loves drama.

• Rhyme to remember. In your mind, rhyme the person’s first name with an associative characteristic. Anna eats a banana…Max plays the sax…Jim likes to swim. 

• Associate new acquaintances with old ones. Who does this new person remind you of? Make a point of linking these two people in your mind. The next time you see this new person, an image of that other friend or celebrity will pop into your mind—along with the new name. 

• Repeat the new name both out loud and to yourself several times. Make a point of saying something such as “Great to meet you, Jason” at the beginning of the conversation and “Hope to see you again soon, Jason” at the end of the conversation.

If none of those methods work, don’t panic – that just enhances the block. Relax and keep talking to the person. Sometimes your subconscious works while you’re talking. If all else fails, accept defeat and politely say, “Can you please give me your name again?” It won’t be held against you.