"Hi, what's your name?"

After they respond, repeat it back to them to ensure you heard it correctly. I'll usually say it 2-3 times within a few sentences to help me remember. While doing this, I'll associate their name with a famous person. John? Like John Connor from Terminator? Katie? Like Katie Holmes, the actor?

Not only does this allow me to say their name a few times, but the famous connection helps me create a reference point, and memorable reference points are more effective in recalling our memory.

And, I'll do this same referencing for them when they ask about my name. For example, I'll ask them if they've ever heard of Jason and the Argonauts from Greek Mythology. If they don't I'll revert to Inigo Montoya, from Princess Bride and the actor Jason Statham to help them remember Jason Montoya.

What about you? How do you go about remembering people's names?