Why are compliments problematic? It seems like giving – and getting – them would be a no-brainer.
Most of us like getting compliments. They make us feel valuable, appreciated, and heard.
Adam Grant found that even a bit of gratitude – a simple thanks – from a person increased the recipient’s feelings of “social worth” and self-esteem.
A Chinese study of 265 full-time workers found that workers who received thanks and encouragement worked more productively and showed increased creativity compared to their counterparts.
Dan Pink notes in a fun short video that we are reluctant to give compliments and can feel uncomfortable getting them. Why?
A Harvard Business Review article suggests that we have three sets of mistaken expectations:
- We underestimate how much the recipient values compliments.
- We fear if we compliment someone regularly, the benefits will diminish.
- We underestimate how much giving compliments makes us feel better.
Interestingly, a common reason for not giving compliments is that people worry about being awkward. They fear that without a polished delivery, their compliments won’t be appreciated. That’s not true.
Getting started couldn’t be easier. You only need to be warm, sincere, and willing to put it out there. People will respond positively, regardless of the grammar or syntax.
Compliments are a great way to make you and the recipients feel great.
How can you make it a habit? We’re eager to hear. Contact us with your thoughts.