While some people have an ability to remember names, the vast majority of us don’t have a photographic memory when it comes to names. Writing for Psychology Today, Gretchen Rubin suggests using a compliment as a way to avoid the awkwardness that follows your lack of memory. If you simply cannot remember a persons name it’s not a bad idea to be a little apologetic and complementary at the same time. For example:
“Wow, you have a terrific memory! I can’t believe you remember my name from that meeting six months ago. I can’t remember the names of people I met yesterday! So of course I have to ask you your name.”
In many cases people will be impressed that you actually remembered something about them rather than their name, especially if that moment had a particular impact.
The great benefit of asking for a business card is that even if you forget someone name, you can read it from his or her card.
Read the full article in Psychology Today | Forget a Name? 6 Tips for Faking It