In a study of more than 400 people, nearly 70% felt embarrassment or discomfort with recognition or receiving a compliment.
Accepting compliments graciously is about recognizing the kindness and goodwill of the giver, not you (the receiver).
When someone compliments you, they tell you how your actions impacted them. Respect their feelings even when you don't completely agree or feel uncomfortable.
Don't contradict them. Instead...
Did you know?
Compliments activate reward areas in the brain (striatum) and lead to a ripple of positivity. By activating the striatum, praise improves the process of skill consolidation that happens when we sleep. That means complimenting people can improve their performance.
Say thanks
Say "thank you" and accept the praise.
Maintain eye contact and smile to better show your gratitude.
If you freeze and can't say more, know that a simple "thanks" is enough.
Remember, most people feel awkward when they receive praise. It means there's absolutely nothing "wrong" with you, AND you're awesome.
Did you know?
Christopher Littlefield writes about the "surprise sequence" in Do compliments make you cringe? Here's why. Read the article to start discovering where your initial reaction to praise comes from.
Reflect, don't deflect
You're awesome. Accept it!
But what does that look like when accepting praise?
Don't
Immediately shift the focus onto someone or something else
Make fun of yourself or your work
Minimize your achievement
Do
Reflect the compliment back to the person giving it
Be genuine with your words and body language
Don't Say
"It was all thanks to Josh. He is the true MVP."
"Haha, sometimes I get it right."
"Don't mention it. Just doing my job."
Do Say
"That means a lot coming from someone so talented."
"Your work on our last project inspired me. Thank you for your leadership."
Stay humble
If you love praise, don't be like Michael Scott from The Office. Accepting a compliment doesn't mean bragging.
Show appreciation without appearing arrogant.
Acknowledge your efforts or the work you put in, but share credit where it's due. For example:
I really appreciate your kind words, and I'm grateful for the support and collaboration from everyone involved.
Quiz
Your coworker praises your contribution to a project during a team meeting. How should you respond?
Did you know?
March 1st is World Compliment Day.
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