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

Any day is a good day to hand out compliments! So why not start today, on National Compliment Day? Regularly delivering heartfelt compliments to co-workers will boost their motivation and improve the atmosphere at work. Not sure where to start? Here are some tips.

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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Questions about psychosocial policies and procedures?

Mensura’s psychosocial department can assist you with developing a psychosocial policy for your organisation with a key focus on employee satisfaction and appreciation.

Our External Training department also offers training courses on respect in the workplace. Contact us for more details!