Dale Carnegie taught that “There is no sweeter sound to any person’s ear than the sound of their own name.” When you remember someone’s name, it communicates that they matter to you. Names give a personal touch. There is a worth mechanism within us that is activated by the sound of our name. We feel respect when others call us by name and remember our name. However, when people forget our name, it can make us feel forgettable and unimportant.

During World War II, Hitler and his Nazis used many tactics to dehumanize the Jewish people. One of their barbaric strategies was taking away people’s name and referring to them as only a number. They even tattooed the number onto their skin and on their forearms so that the person would always visualize their perceived worthlessness. 

Names truly give us a sense of belonging. We feel involved when our name is used. Carnegie also said, “We should be aware of the magic contained in a name and realize that this single item is wholly and completely owned by the person with whom we are dealing … and nobody else. The name sets the individual apart; it makes him or her unique among all others. The information we are imparting or the request we are making takes on special importance when we approach the situation with the name of the individual. From the waitress to the senior executive, the name will work magic as we deal with others.” 

If you want to gain respect from others, be a person that calls people by name. Give people credit by making their names known. It takes a lot of focus to remember names, but it is worth the payoff. If there is one thing to take away in a conversation, it would be the name of the person to whom you are talking to. I have heard of people that have generated creative techniques and even mind games in their head to remember people’s names. Whatever works for you to retain someone’s name…do it.

Remembering people’s names is something I am working on to become better at, I hope you will too!