How to Give a Compliment

A compliment is a give and take gift that benefits the one who is giving and the recipient. In our society, giving complement is highly acceptable, especially if is genially expressed and maintained in the right context.

If you notice someone always looks great, tell the person. If you find there is an efficient person in your mist, let them know and appreciate them.

We sometimes down play the power of a complement. But a sincere compliment can break the ice with a stranger, it can increase productivity of personnel's, it can reduce stress and also increase the bond between people. When you say the right words at the right time it can do amazing things. It can motivate, inspire, comfort and relax an individual to an extent that we cannot fathom. Sincere compliment is a powerful medicine for the soul.

Now what can be considered as a great compliment? It should have the following attributes:

1. A great compliment should be sincere: A well thought of compliments puts emphasis on effort, accomplishment and whatever attributes you want to give compliment on. Genuine complement cannot be faked.
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3. A great compliment must be specific: "That song was sung as well as the original" is better than "You are a great singer". "You cleaned that car spotless" is better than "Great job" and you will agree with me that "Your dress combines well with your shoe and ear rings" than "You look beautiful"
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5. A great compliment does not compare: It is not a good practice to compare ones compliment with another. Always give a separate compliment.
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7. It should be consistent with the environment. The settings should be appropriate. You don't give a compliment about football at an opera concert.

At the work place, please as much as possible reserve your compliments to the work of your co-workers and not their appearance. Just to be on the safer side. Focus your compliment on the individual's skills rather than appearance.

Know when to get personal with your compliments. Depending on the relationship you have with the other person, you can give a personal compliment at the appropriate time. Friends do have feelings you know, so be careful with you compliments and know when to be very personal.

Sometimes it is very awkward when you get an unexpected compliment and you don't know how to respond. When you find yourself in such a scenario, just smile and enjoy the moment. Don't say anything. The most appropriate respond to a compliment is "Thank you".

Never diminish or dispute a compliment. It puts the giver in an awkward position. This is a no go zone in compliment etiquette. If you find a person is being phony, please disregard the compliment and smile. Always give a compliment when you have the opportunity to do so.