How much more personal does an encounter feel when during a meeting, a gathering, or a party, the person you are talking to remembers your name? Everyone likes hearing their name and a good practice by all is to take the time to remember the person you are being acquainted with.
When we are introduced, we are often thinking about something we might want to say, or are distracted, or the name comes at us too quickly. While there is no magic to remembering names, I promise by following these couple of rules, you'll never forget a person's name again.
First, and foremost, when you are introduced to a person, repeat their name. Don't let those few seconds when the person's name is said dissipate. Too long after the introduction, it is always feels awkward to once again ask. When several people are being introduced at once, take the time to go back and repeat each of those names. No one ever takes offense to repeating their name, in fact, it shows a level of sophistication that earns you respect.
Next, and most important, make a connection in your mind. If the person you were just introduced to is Robin, think of the bird and connect her face to that image. If you're introduced to a Steven, think of someone you know with that name and connect the two. When I introduce Bart to someone, I often connect him to the Simpson's--while he doesn't always love that, most people enjoy hearing that connection.
There's no reason to ever forget someone's name - and in the business world, that is an important lesson to learn. Take the time to focus, repeat, and associate. Undoubtedly, you will stand out in the crowd.