When you forget someone’s name don’t ask. Get them to tell you!

This has happened to all of us. Someone approaches you who you remember their face and their story but just can’t get their name to pop in your head. This situation can be embarrassing and cost you big time in the business setting.

But believe me; this problem can be handled gracefully and without being noticed.

Rule: Do not ask “Who Are You?”

Rather, when the person approaches you say “Glad to see you.” Ask the person what they’ve been up to (without mentioning names) and try to get a feel for their story. They might drop clues that will jolt your memory as to what their name is.

If you remembered their name after the person talks about what they’ve been up to simply slide their name into the conversation such as “Well that sounds pretty exciting Rick, by the way, I have gone to that same island last year on a business conference.” Subtle and graceful you are.

But what if you still can’t remember their name after hearing their story?

Don’t worry. There’s more.

Get the person to reintroduce themselves from the first time they met you. As you did in the beginning, put yourself out there with a firm handshake and welcome them with your name.

(Handshake) “Matt Peschong”
(Handshake) “John Smith, it’s great to see you again Matt”

Simple as that.

Solve an unpleasant experience with this simple trick. It will help put you at ease and the other person at ease as well. You never know if they are in the same forgetful situation as you. But admitting your guilt might get you in trouble so use these tactics.

Matthew Peschong
Minnesota Website Design