This is Gracie. My darling golden doodle. From the first time I saw her, she’s never forgot me. I never forget her. But people are different. We tend to forget one another. But we all like to be remembered. So how can we make ourselves more memorable?

I just love it when someone comes up to me and says, “I remember you!” But I don’t remember them.

Thought I’d share a few of my thoughts here. Many of you will relate to these. I’m sure you’ve used them yourself.

1. I try always to address anyone I encounter by name. Anyone. If I don’t know or forget, I’ll ask someone. “What’s her name?” And then call her by her name. “How’d he know my name?” Always a great start.
2. Always make eye contact. Even when just passing by.
3. Make them all laugh! A quick comment? I usually use sarcasm. Make ‘em laugh when few do, or when they’re having a tough day? Just give ‘em a little chuckle.
4. Write handwritten notes. I try to write two a week. So simple, but today still rarely done. As you “sprinkle” these out, you’ll be amazed how people will remember.
5. Overtip. Especially those of service who truly enhance an experience. My $20? Usually feels like $50 or more to them.
6. Always keep your head up. Open that radar screen of yours. Scan around. Expect to see someone you know.
7. Smile. Smile. And smile some more. People will pick up on your energy. They’ll, almost always, smile back. This also gives you a spurt of positivity too.
8. Even if I’m not sure… if someone is even faintly familiar? “Don’t I know you?” If so, great! If not, “Oh sorry. I thought you were someone else.” No harm done.
9. Be open to the fact that you will run into many you can recognize or reach out to. “Wow, how did you recognize me?! Thanks for reaching out.”
10. Lastly, try to always be more interested in them. Than trying to be interesting about yourself.

Be prepared. If you build an inventory of connections with others that are slightly different from the norm? You can expect a lot of, “I remember yous.”

That’s how to be memorable…