It almost goes without saying that people with poor memories are going to find things harder than those with good memories. People with poor memories:

• Are unable to recall key facts
• Forget decisions that have been made
• Find it difficult to transfer learning to the workplace
• Are more likely to lose information or documents
• Fare worse in social situations as they forget people’s names (there’s only so many times you can ask!)
• Find it harder to learn new things including processes and behaviour
• Miss or are late for meetings/scheduled calls
• Forget important dates and events

As a result, they are less likely to be given positions of responsibility at work, as they are simply less likely to be trusted to deliver.

On the other hand, a good memory increases your chances of becoming successful socially. People feel a lot more appreciated when you remember them and address them by their names. In addition, you’ll be able to start and sustain conversations more easily if you are able to remember previous conversations, link to related anecdotes or refer to relevant current news items.

Secondly, a good memory allows you to learn quickly and master things more easily which aids personal and professional development and can even relieve stress.

Those with a better memory find it easier to grasp new facts and concepts. This automatically increases comprehension and understanding. As they remember and understand something, they are more likely to be able to apply it correctly to improve their effectiveness at work.

Luckily, memory skills can be improved.

Here are a number of resources about improving Memory and making learning stick…

Making Learning Stick – 20 things you can do to make remembering easier!

How to Ensure Learning Transfers to the Workplace – The 12 drivers of success

Retrieval Practice is a website offers a wealth of detailed resources and they’re all for FREE. Well worth checking out!