Many names which seem to present difficulties upon first hearing them simply need a little attention and analysis. At times when names have escaped you, you have gone back to the alphabet and by running over the letters have found that the first letter suggested the name wanted. Some names which are apparently difficult will be easily remembered if you will notice that the first syllable of the name is a noun and has a definite meaning.
You meet Mr. Carruthers. This name presents considerable difficulty until you notice that the first three letters spell the simple word "car." By visually associating the object "car" with his face and repeating the name Carruthers a couple of times, you will find no difficulty in recalling the name.
Note these examples of this method of using the first syllable for the Name Picture:
Mr. Bellamy—bell
Mr. Reardon—rear
Mr. Raymond—ray
Mr. Seagraves—sea
Mr. Ringling—ring
Mr. Burroughs—burr
Mr. Dennison—den
Mr. Bushnell—bush
Mr. Boardman—board
Mr. Pierson—pier
Practice with this idea by using the face here as Mr. Woodhead. See a stick of wood on his head, pile it there and see it roll off, don't be afraid to make strong, unusual Name Pictures. You will not have to tell the man how you remembered his name, but to do it will be one of your greatest business assets.
Meaning of Vocations
Almost every vocation has been used as a proper name. Undoubtedly the name comes from the fact that the forefathers followed that vocation. In every such case see the person working at the trade. For practice use this man as Mr. Smith, suggesting a blacksmith; see him working at his forge, see the anvil, the sparks, the hammer, see him strike. Make a strong, vivid picture. (Smith comes from the word Smythe—meaning hitter.)