“I'm terrible with names” usually means “I never actually registered the name in the first place.” In introductions we're busy being nervous, so the name goes in one ear and out the other. Fix the encoding and the memory follows.
Three techniques
- Say it back immediately. “Nice to meet you, Sam.” Repetition locks it in and confirms you heard it right.
- Use it once more during the conversation, and again when you say goodbye.
- Make an association — link the name to someone you already know, a rhyme, or a visual image.
💡
If you didn't catch it
Just ask: “Sorry, I didn't catch your name?” People would far rather repeat it than be forgotten. Asking early is easy; asking after ten minutes is the awkward part.
When you blank
If you forget mid-conversation, own it lightly: “Remind me of your name — I want to get it right.” Honest and low-stakes beats avoiding them for the rest of the night.