Giving sincere compliments is an art but so is how you receive a compliment.

Consider the compliments you receive, not the number but rather the content of the compliments.

Compliments often indicate growth. A friend recently shared how inspired he was when I recounted some significant struggles I’d been through. “I never heard you complain,” he said.

That was significant for me because I have a tendency towards negativity. I know that sometimes I can come across as complaining, so his compliment was important to me because it indicated growth.

Compliments reinforce what we’re doing right, and while we don’t need to dwell on those things neither should we dismiss them. We are usually acutely aware of what we’re doing wrong and refusing to think about what we’re doing right creates an unrealistic perception.

It is rather fashionable to quickly dismiss a compliment with, “Oh, gee, thanks.”

A sincere compliment deserves a sincere expression of gratitude, not a cursory thanks.

If you want to be better at receiving a compliment, say “Thank you” and then explain why you appreciate what the person shared. “I’m not always positive and complain more than I’d like so I really appreciate what you shared” was the response I gave my friend.

Perhaps you’ve noticed that those who are willing to compliment others genuinely are often those who receive more compliments. It isn’t a gratuitous response: when we compliment others we bring out the best in them and create relational capital. We compliment the people we like, and we like the people who like us.

Consider the compliments you’ve received and find the positive message they contain. And when you compliment others, remember that the more specific the compliment, the more they’ll benefit from receiving it.

Being able to give and receive compliments graciously is a strong sign of a great leader. If you’re looking for more leadership tips click on the image below to download my 101 Essential Tips For Inspiring Leadership.