Back to Articles

What Was Your Name Again?
How to Make Your Networking More Memorable

Do you know the 2 most costly words in business? I FORGOT.

Think of the negative consequences of hearing “I forgot the meeting, I forgot my speech, I forgot to bring it, I forgot how to do it, etc.” A weak memory in business wastes time and costs money. In no area is a good memory more important than in remembering names.

Have you ever forgot someone's name just moments after hearing it? Ever had to introduce someone whose name you’ve forgotten? Few things are as embarrassing as struggling for the name of someone you know you should remember. Since you only have one chance to make a first impression, the ability to remember names can be considered the #1 business etiquette and networking skill.

To remember more names at your next networking function, just remember M.O.M.

“M” is for Motivation. If I told you that there are ten people in the next room, one of whom has $5,000 cash for you IF you correctly remember their name, how many names do you think you would remember? Remember everyone’s favorite radio station: WII-FM (What’s In It For Me). Why do you want to remember this person’s name?

“O” is for Observation. Often remembering names is not a matter of RETENTION, but more of a matter of ATTENTION. Just as you can’t remember the face of someone who you didn’t see, you can’t remember a name you didn’t hear in the first place.

“M” is for Mechanics. Mechanics are the actual techniques, methods or strategies we teach to remember more names. The reason why mechanics comes last is because if you don’t have the motivation to remember someone’s name, or you don’t observe the person & name in the first place, all the best mechanics won’t help.

One of the greatest networking skills ever developed is the ability to meet a person and remember his or her name. When you have the ability to enter a room, confidently meet 10 new people and leave saying good-bye to every one of them by name, they will all remember you!

Jim Kwik, co-founder of Kwik Learning, is a frequent and sought out speaker/trainer for businesses, organizations & universities nationwide. He has conducted trainings in the areas of speed-reading, memory improvement, & advanced thinking skills for over a decade. He can be reached at 914-949-3172 and www.KwikLearning.com