Are You Easily Forgotten? Here’s How to Become Memorable

You only have one chance to make a good first impression. It may be cliche, but it’s true. Whether you’re interacting through social media, pitching your products and services to a potential client, or having some face-to-face time at a live networking event, how you are perceived by others matters in every business setting.

There aren’t any universal guidelines when it comes to making a good impression, but the goal is the same. You want people to remember you, your name, your unique qualities that make them want to get to know you better. When people remember you, it’s easier to follow up, ask for opinions, start a conversation, get people to clickthrough, pitch a joint venture, ask for a favor, sell something, sell something else … you get the idea.

Here are a few ways you make yourself memorable in any situation.

Be Confident

Confident people are magnetic; we all want to be near them, and tend to listen to what they have to say. As long as your confidence is warranted and not over-the-top, being confident and taking control of the conversation can make people want to remember your name.

Make Mistakes

Just as being confident can make you memorable, so can making a mistake. Mistakes show your human side. If you make a mistake, embrace it and use it to ground yourself. Acknowledging your mistake instead of trying to hide it can not only show a candidness that will be appreciated by others, but it can make you more approachable and “human.”

Show Your Passion

Do you have a well-researched opinion on a hot topic and love to debate? Are you passionate about what you do everyday and love to talk about it? Do you have a new project in the works that encompasses your thoughts? Share it. Passion is infectious, and getting others as fired up as you are is a clear way to become memorable.

Ditch the Cookie Cutter

You may have a perfect elevator pitch, a solid introduction and an impeccable image prepared. But so does everyone else. It’s good to prepare but don’t overlook the power of setting yourself apart from everyone else. Being just a little bit different can be exactly what you need to become memorable.

Listen … and Actually Care

We all love to hear ourselves talk, and we all love to feel like people are completely engaged in what we’re saying. It’s human nature. You can make yourself memorable by actively listening and engaging in conversation. Try giving others the floor, then listen with interest, ask relevant questions and absorb what others put out there.

Be You

You already have everything you need to become memorable because you are the only you in existence. It’s much easier to be yourself to perfection than to try to change who you are, so ignore all of the tips shared here and just let YOU show through.

Image credit: sundarksom