Remembering people's names

One of life's little embarrassments - when you realise you have forgotten someone's name yet they clearly remembers yours.

So what's the trick to remembering names?

The key is putting in the effort when you first hear that person's name - repeat it in your mind. Try to link that person with someone

you know who has the same first name.

Invent bizarre visual imagery to help you remember; for example if their surname is Wood - imagine them staggering around trying to carry an enormously heavy piece of wood.

Then while you are talking to them - keep testing yourself. What's his name? Ah yes - Tom. And finally, if you can get away with it, use their name repeatedly in conversation.