Tips on Giving Compliments at Work

Today is National Compliment Day!

When I look at this quote, it makes me think about how we can expand our minds to what constitutes “beautiful."

 Compliments can obviously be about just about anything, but I’d like us to focus on paying compliments in the work setting as it can often be something many of us avoid at the risk of looking like we’re a suck-up, just trying to be well-liked or striving too hard to be the “cool boss.”

So, I wanted to share some thoughts on how you can give compliments at work while 1) not sounding phony and 2) keeping things professional and not crossing the line :)

 Tips for complimenting your associates: 

• Personalize it in a meaningful way.
• Consider things the employee has been working on and is showing improvement in (an area where someone is showing growth).
• Show genuine appreciation.
• Be sincere. 

Examples:

• I am continually impressed by the results you produce.
• It’s really showing how you pay attention to detail.
• Thank you for setting a great example for your coworkers.
• Thank you for always speaking up in team meetings and providing a unique perspective.
• I appreciate the positive energy you bring to the team.

Tips for complimenting your boss:

• Be sincere.
• Recognize something they taught you.
• Be specific.
• Show genuine appreciation. 

Examples:

• Thank you for the advice on how to tackle this project. I can really see how approaching it that way leads to a more effective process.
• I really appreciate the positive reinforcement you give to me.
• Your clear communication really helps me understand the company’s expectations.
• The way you handled last week's crisis with your calm demeanor was a game-changer.

Tips for complimenting your co-workers/peers:

• Avoid empty compliments that may seem like your goal is to be well-liked. Be sincere.
• Skip overly formal phrases that might make it seem like you are evaluating the other person.
• Consider things that another person does really well that you’d like to learn more about yourself.
• Consider their overall impact.
• Express organic gratitude. 

Examples:

• Having you on the team makes a huge difference.
• Thank you for your willingness to lend a hand.
• I always take notes when you speak because you connect so well with your audience.
• I’ve heard so many positive things from our guests about how you went above and beyond for them.
• I know it can be busy and tough sometimes, but I’m glad to work alongside you.