When’s the last time someone greeted you by your name? Or when someone you met only once remembered your name? This probably felt good, and this is something that can be translated to those in your workplace. Knowing names can make people feel like they matter and are respected, but it’s often an uncommon practice in the work world.

While it may seem small, it should be seen as an essential skill of effective leadership. Learning names also gives you an opportunity to be a good example.

“When we screw up and forget someone’s name, we can simply apologize, and ask again. You’re modeling what it looks like to be a lifelong learner, a flexible, confident person who is not afraid to admit a mistake,” said Ari Weinzweig of Zingerman’s. “Name retention is a muscle you can exercise and, if you’re serious about it, strengthen and improve.”

Here are some practical tips for remembering names:

• Pay attention: Often our minds have already moved on while learning someone’s name. Pay attention when they introduce themself.
• Repeat it back: Embed it in your brain by saying: “Nice to meet you, Susan!”
• Make sure you have it right: They may prefer a shortened version, nickname, or different name altogether. Also, check your pronunciation.
• Use it at each contact: The more you say their name, the more it gets embedded in your head. Add their name when saying “hi!” in person, on the phone, or the beginning of an email.
• Ask how it’s spelled: Hearing the spelling can help you visualize and remember it better.
• Write it down: Sometimes writing names down can better engrain them in your head, especially if you have a lot to remember. Keep a list, on paper or in your phone.

Find more from this topic at zingtrain.com/blog/theseemingly-small-act-of-knowing-peoples-names-canmake-a-big-difference

This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s December 2021 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.