Use SIPSLOW for ADHD Communication Success

One of the most common issues Wise Squirrels ask to work on is improving communication with others. They ask for ways to improve their listening skills and remembering what others communicate.

What is Working Memory?

Working memory involves taking in information, understanding it, and holding it in mind to be used later. One example of this is hearing someone’s “first name” as you are introduced to them for the first time, continuing to have a conversation with the person, and concurrently holding the memory of their “first name” so you remember it later. Working memory is also a part of executive functioning, which is associated with cognitive functions to be successful with goal-directed behavior.

“What’s Your Name Again?”

Ask any late-diagnosed adult with ADHD who has difficulty remembering names of multiple people as they are introduced for the first time. The Wise Squirrel might tell close family or friends when they see people they have previously met, “If I don’t introduce you, then I forget their name.” 

Those who are the most understanding of this Wise Squirrel will proceed to introduce themselves and ask that person their name (in earshot of the Wise Squirrel), so their name might be remembered. How can the Wise Squirrel ever remember new names?

SIPSLOW (Sensory Input, Processing, Short-Term to Long-Term, Output, of Working Memory) is the key to ADHD communication success. By figuring out how you best use your senses in learning, you can use these strengths to leverage your performance in working memory. 

Most people prefer one or two primary types of sensory input, and when more than one is preferred, they need to occur together. If you are an ADHDer that has difficulties remembering people’s names when they tell you, then you either do not prefer auditory input or need auditory input paired with another sensory input.

Try to incorporate multiple forms of sensory learning, which may include auditory input:

Wise Squirrels use at least two senses to learn new names

Try one or more of the following ways to remember a new name the next time you meet someone new in a social setting, at work, at school, when networking, in the community, online, or anywhere else. You may also choose your own combination of strategies. The key is to incorporate more than one of the five senses:

1. Keep a pen and a stack of Post-it Notes in your pocket or purse or use an app on your phone to write down new names when you hear them. Look at the person to keep hold a picture of them in your mind if it is helpful. (auditory, kinesthetic, visual)

2. When you hear someone’s name for the first time, ask about an interest they have. As you write their name, create an association. Sometimes drawing a small picture next to their name can help. (For example, Dave Delaney: “Dave tries to stay in “Dé laney while drinking coffee” can help you remember “Dave Delaney likes to drink coffee.” 

(auditory, kinesthetic, visual (of the association)

3. When you hear someone’s name, look at the person, and be sure to repeat their name out loud a few times, shortly after meeting the person in your conversation. For example: 

“Hi Dave.” 

“It was nice to meet you, Dave.”

“Dave, tell me about your ideas for …” 

(auditory with repetition, visual of the person)

4. With the above example, if you also need to incorporate movement, but forgot to bring something to write down their name, you can tap your foot lightly on the floor or tap your hand lightly on your leg. Some people do this with syllables of names to help with memory. You may also consider spelling their name in your mind. Some people keep a small fidget handy, such as a coin or a gemstone in their pocket, while others might opt for a ring that spins or to hold onto their necklace pendant to incorporate movement and touch into learning new names.

(Adding kinesthetic)

5. With the same example, you might also request a business card for additional information. A business card is tangible and has text and possibly a picture or business logo to reference. 

(Adding kinesthetic, adding other visuals)

Do not worry about what others might think if you choose to write down someone’s name and ask them to repeat the information as you write it. Sometimes I say, “I am really interested in what you are saying and may like to follow-up with you. Could you say/spell your name for me so I can write it down?”

Do not worry about saying someone’s name multiple times when you first meet them. You might think it sounds too repetitive because you are not used to doing this. If you try this out with someone you know by each taking the role of repeating the other person’ s name in a conversation, they will likely tell you it sounds fine.

What are some other ways you may incorporate multiple senses into learning and remembering names of people you meet?

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Tina Schneider, Ph.D. is the owner and founder of Monarch Counseling, Inc. Monarch Counseling specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents, teens, and adults in Ohio. Face-to-face and telehealth services are available. If you or someone you know needs ADHD testing or counseling for ADHD, and you live in Ohio, reach out to Monarch Counseling, Inc. today