A new job.
A lot of new names.

Start with the people you’ll see again soon.

After an introduction, ask yourself when you’re likely to meet this person next. A teammate on your daily call deserves a different reminder from someone you met once in a large onboarding session. Begin with the names you expect to use tomorrow.

You don’t need to build a complete company directory. A few useful names with a little context are enough to start.

Attach the name to a shared task.

Write a short note about how your work connects: “Priya — checkout designer, joining Thursday’s review” or “Daniel — can explain the release process.” A shared task gives you a reason to recall the person, rather than memorizing an isolated name.

Keep the note professional and relevant. Avoid recording confidential project information or personal details that weren’t offered for this purpose. Follow your workplace’s rules about which services may store work-related information.

Prepare before the next meeting.

Look at the attendees and try to recall a name and one piece of context for each person you know. Then check your notes. This turns a long list into preparation for an actual conversation.

After the meeting, correct anything you got wrong. If you now know a name comfortably, mark it as remembered and focus your attention on the people still unfamiliar.

Make asking again easy.

If you’re unsure how to pronounce a name, ask. If you forget it, say so simply: “We met in onboarding, but could you remind me of your name?” You can still remember the conversation even when the name needs another introduction.