Remembering names

Here are some tactics for name memory:

- Ask the person how to spell his or her name (unless it's Smith, Jones or Brown, of course).

- Repeat their name in the conversation, but not too often.

- Write their name down, if your interaction is on the phone.

- Get a business card and put some notes on the card that will remind you of what he or she looked like and the details of your conversation -- after you’ve separated.

- Try to associate the name with something about the person, such as stature, facial features, or mannerisms.