A while back I posted about my struggle with remembering names…well, I have a new response that works wonders!
At Agile2017, I was chatting with several people in the hallway of the hotel. They were sitting having drinks and I was walking by on my way to back to my room. Ellen Grove was one of the people – so I stopped to say hello. I did not know everyone that was sitting there and after introductions; the topic of remembering names was mentioned. That is when a woman I just met, named Ash Coleman, excitedly said she has the perfect response:
“Please remind me what was memorable about when we met”
Immediately, I acknowledged the awesomeness of this response. So I’ve tried it several times and here’s what I’ve experienced:
- Context Mattered: Some gave me additional information that was a kick to my brain and I then could remember meeting them. I just needed a little help.
- Expectations Mattered: Some were unable to give me any additional information, which made them realize that me remembering would be difficult. However this didn’t create an awkward situation, just one that we started fresh.
Now I easily use slight variations, such as “Please help me remember – what was memorable about when we met”. Not only does this response roll off my tongue easily, I do not feel like I’m being rude. I’m absolutely thrilled to have learned a response that truly works for me. Thank you Ash so very much. I look forward to learning more from you!
Try this response; did it work?
