Giving compliments at work: 6 tips for a mental pat on the back

Giving and receiving compliments is not only fun, it also boosts motivation and has a positive impact on performance among your colleagues. As long as you don’t break the number one rule: mean what you say. Follow the tips below to help bring a smile to someone’s face.

• Make it personal. Always use the first person when complimenting someone face-to-face or in an email or text message. This shows how much you personally appreciate what they do. For example: ‘I just wanted to let you know that I really appreciate how you...’.  
• Direct your compliment to one person. Complimenting the achievements of the entire team is a great thing to do, but it is also important to focus your praise on one single person at times.
• Be specific. Say exactly what you admire or appreciate in the other person. Don’t just say ‘you’re such a great colleague’. Instead, explain what it is exactly that makes them so great in your eyes: ‘I love how you’re always there to assist me’.
• Find a way that works for you. If you are struggling with giving people compliments face-to-face, then simply write the message down and put it on their desk.   
• Consider other people’s personalities. People who don’t mind being put in the spotlight will love being complimented in the presence of others. Those who are a bit more shy may prefer to receive compliments in a one-on-one conversation.
• Don’t go overboard. If you exaggerate in your enthusiasm, you will not appear genuine, so don’t overdo it!

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Read also:

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• 6 tips to support grieving employees
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