Zsa Zsa Gabor once admitted: “I call everyone ‘Darling’ because I can’t remember their names’.”
While that strategy might have worked for the legendary actress, it isn’t likely the best way to help you build a credible financial advisory practice.
Remembering people’s names, at social functions and impromptu interactions, can be challenging, says Carey McBeth, a business professionalism and etiquette specialist based in Vancouver.
“We build relationships with people using the skills we were born with,” McBeth says. And we can use those skills to help us better communicate with the people in our network.
McBeth offers the following five tips to help you avoid that awkward, humbling moment when you can’t remember the name of an important client or acquaintance:
1. Listen!
Too often, we are more focused on what we are going to say next, McBeth says, than listening to what the other person is saying.
Instead of thinking, “What am I going to say next,” listen to what the other person is saying so you can process and retain that information. Make eye contact and don’t be afraid of a momentary silence.
2. Use mnemonic devices
If you get caught up in a deluge of new names at a social event, consider picking out little hints or traits that will help you recollect someone’s name later on.
For example, if you just met “Carey” who was having a fruit drink, think of her as “Carey-Berry.” Just be sure the mental nickname is easy to recall.
3. Repeat
Use the other person’s name in conversations once you have been introduced, and don’t be apprehensive about continuing to use it.
American author Dale Carnegie once noted: “A person’s name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.”
McBeth agrees. You will find that people perk up, she says, when you say their name. It also helps you establish a personal rapport with them.
4. Make use of business cards
If you weren’t able to catch someone’s name when introduced, be sure to ask for their business card if you want to include them in your network.
It’s important — and proper etiquette — McBeth says, to actually look at the business card when it’s presented, rather than just shoving it into your pocket.
Looking at the card is also a great way for visual learners to make a mental note of a name’s spelling to help you remember it down the road.
5. Stay positive
Stop telling yourself you don’t remember names and start telling yourself, “I’m good at remembering names,” McBeth says.
This subtle reinforcement can boost your confidence and put you in a positive — rather than already defeated — frame of mind.