essay praising someone

10 Best Writing Compliments (Praising Words For Writers)

Writers are all over the place, and they often get overlooked when it comes to compliments. That’s where this article comes in! We’ll give you a good handful of writing compliments that will work well to make a writer feel appreciated for what they do.

The preferred compliments are “I don’t remember the last time I read something this good,” “you have a way with words,” and “I loved the part where.” These options are great to show a writer that you appreciate what they’re doing and that you pay attention to their writing style.

I Don’t Remember The Last Time I Read Something This Good

This phrase is great because it shows that nothing can compare to what you’re currently reading. It shows the writer that they have real talent, and there aren’t many people out there that can write in a similar fashion to them.

• I don’t remember the last time I read something this good. It’s quite amazing, and I hope you publish more things soon.
• I don’t remember the last time I read something of this magnitude. You’ve created a masterpiece with this.
• I can’t remember the last time I read something this good! You’ve made me feel things I didn’t even know were possible.

You Have A Way With Words

“You have a way with words” is great for a writer to hear. Being able to use words in ways that interest and encapsulate people is great in written formats. That’s why it’s great to use this phrase.

It shows that writers are able to create narratives from words that most people would have missed out on. The more unique their word choices or concepts, the better the writer will take a compliment like this.

• You have a way with words. I don’t know how you write in the ways you do, but it’s very impressive to read.
• You have a way with words. Thank you for spending the time to write this novel. It’s truly beautiful.
• You have a real way with words. Your prose is gorgeous, and I couldn’t help myself but continue turning the pages.

I Loved The Part Where

“I love the part where” is a great way to be specific about what you liked in someone’s writing. If you can break down some of the more complicated ideas, you’ll show the writer that you really appreciated and understood what they were writing about.

Not only is it a great compliment, but it also gives you a good avenue into the writer’s life. If you want to have more in-depth discussions about what they’ve written, this is a great way to start that conversation going.

• I loved the part where you used your fundamental understanding of nature and language to intertwine the two characters.
• I loved the part where you made the two main characters meet each other without either of them understanding the significance.
• I loved the part where you described the house they live in. It’s one of the best descriptions I’ve ever read.

You’re A Wordsmith

“You’re a wordsmith” is a simple compliment. We can use it to show that someone has the skill to control words in ways that make them stand out. Being a wordsmith is one of the many great traits a writer can have.

It’s good to use a phrase like this to compliment them. If you’re not sure what else to say (or don’t fancy coming up with something more eloquent), a simple adjective like “wordsmith” will still get your point across just fine!

• You’re a wordsmith. I don’t know how you come up with half of the things you write about!
• You’re a wordsmith! I’ve never even heard of half the words you use, and yet I seem to understand every single one of them!
• You’re a wordsmith! Thank you for creating this novel! I’ve had such a great time reading through it.

I’ve Read Your Books Before

“I’ve read your books before” is a surprisingly good compliment for many writers. It shows that you’ve already spent time reading some of their other stuff. On top of that, it also shows that you’ve remembered their name or style.

If a writer was memorable to you, it means they did a good job. If you can let them know that you’ve remembered something they’ve done in the past, you might be surprised by how touched they are by this compliment.

• I’ve read your books before, and I’ve loved every one of them! I know I’m going to love reading this one as well.
• I’ve read your books before! I’ve made sure to keep your name on my list to remind me to read more of your stuff.
• I’ve read your books before. I knew you had talent even when you were writing some of your earlier pieces.

You’re On My List

“You’re on my list” is another one of those nice things to say about a writer. The “list” refers to a list of people you respect or enjoy the work of. It can relate to writers, artists, poets, singers, or any other artistic job where someone demonstrates their abilities for you.

Being on your “list” implies that you enjoyed their work. You want to find more of it, and you’ll keep their name marked to remind you of them should they publish any more writing in the future.

• You’re on my list now! I’ll always keep your name close at hand to remind me to read more of your stuff.
• You’re on my list! I love to keep tabs on the best writers around to find out how they’re furthering their careers.
• You’re on my list! I’m so grateful to have had a chance to read this masterpiece from you.

Do You Have Anything Else That I Could Read?

Sometimes, a simple question like this one goes a long way. If you want to show that you really enjoyed the writer’s work, you might be able to ask them if they have anything else that you can read.

That way, you’re being indirect about your compliment. It also gives them a chance to show off more of their work, which might result in you giving them more compliments for their ability.

• Do you have anything else that I could read? I really admire your writing style, and I’d love to read more.
• Do you have anything else I could read? I think you’ve got real talent, and I’d love to see what else you can do.
• Do you have anything else that I could read? I’m eager to learn more about this world you’ve created in your book.

You Are My Inspiration

“You are my inspiration” is a simple compliment that works well for many different artistic styles. For writers, we can use this phrase when we are blown away by the contents of their writing or the way they’re able to convey themselves.

Every artist (writers included) strives to inspire the people that appreciate their work. That’s why it can be a great thing to come up with a compliment like this to let them know they’ve done a great job.

• You are my inspiration. I didn’t know people could make words do the things you’ve made them do.
• You are my inspiration. Thank you for taking the time to write this. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever read.
• You are an inspiration to my children and me. I have always enjoyed reading your books to them at night.

I Wish I Could Do What You Can Do

“I wish I could do what you can do” is another great example of how to compliment a writer. This time, we use it as a way to show them that we wish we had their abilities, but we know that we’ll never amount to the things they’re able to achieve.

• I wish I could do what you can do. I have no talent of my own, so I live vicariously through you and your words.
• I wish I could do what you can do! You have such a great perspective on life, and it comes through with your novels.
• I wish I could do what you can do. I’m no writer, but you truly have a way of writing that makes me feel things I didn’t know I could feel.

You Always Know How To Put These Things Into Words

This compliment works well because it shows that other people have a hard time articulating what they want to say. Many writers are great at finding the correct combination of words in a sentence to convey their meaning with little difficulty.

Using this compliment recognizes the specific skill that many writers have. If they are able to create sentences that get the point across easily, it’s important to share that with them to let them know you read (and respect) their work.

• You always know how to put these things into words. I wish I had your ability to do that.
• You always seem to know how to put these things into words. It’s quite a respectable talent if you ask me.
• You always know how to put these things into words. I want to be able to do that. Could you teach me?

You may also like: 10 Best Art Compliments (Praising Words For Artists) 10 Best Acting Compliments (Praising Words For Actors) 9 Best Words To Describe Beautiful Eyes (Compliments)

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

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How to Praise a Writer on Their Abilities

Last Updated: September 9, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Kim Chronister, PsyD and by wikiHow staff writer, Luke Smith, MFA . Dr. Kim Chronister is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She specializes in helping people struggling with substance abuse, relationship problems, eating disorders, and personality disorders. Dr. Chronister has contributed to and appeared on Access Hollywood, Investigation Discovery, and NBC News. She is the author of “Peak Mindset” and “FitMentality.” She holds an MA in Clinical Psychology and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) from Alliant International University. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 148,733 times.

Writers often move and inspire us, but when it comes time to compliment their work, it can be a struggle to find the words. How do you tell a novelist that their book was exciting, or tell a journalist how important you think their writing is? We’ve put together a list of specific advice and helpful examples on how to let a writer know how much you appreciate their work, plus example compliments that will work on any writer—from your fiction-writing friend to your especially eloquent coworker.

Things You Should Know

• Be specific about what you like about a writer’s work, pinpointing particular details or parts you enjoyed.
• Use “because” statements like “I enjoyed this because…” to provide a deeper and more thoughtful compliment.
• Express your desire to read more of the writer’s work or to support their work in any way you can.
• Ask the writer about their process, thoughts, and inspiration to give them an opportunity to talk about their own work.

“My favorite part is when…”

• “You absolutely nailed the ending. It was so satisfying.”
• “I love this question you asked in the interview. That was so thoughtful.”
• “The beginning really hooked me. You know how to grab a reader’s attention.”

“I loved this part because…”

• “I love your writing voice because it’s engaging and approachable.”
• “I think this plot really works because of how well you’ve paced the story.”
• “Your writing is so beautiful because you always know the right word for the right moment.”

“Your work really inspires me.”

• “I’ve studied your work a lot, and I’m trying to get better at writing myself!”
• “Your writing always makes me want to become a writer , too.”
• “This story means a lot to me.”

“I can tell you put a lot of work into this.”

• “This is so well-researched and thorough. I’m impressed.”
• “You make it seem so effortless, but I know you must have worked hard on this.”
• “Your hard work really paid off here.”

“I noticed that you chose to…”

• “Why did you include the part about the mom? I thought that was so smart.”
• “This sentence really grabbed me. I love the way you structured it.”
• “It was an interesting choice to describe the setting the way you did.”

“Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?”

• “How did you learn to write when you were just starting out?”
• “Is there anything I should be doing if I want to write like you?”
• “I’d really love to learn from you!”

“Your writing made me think differently about…”

• “Your writing made me recall my own childhood in such vivid detail.”
• “I went and told all my friends about your article after I read it.”
• “Your writing changed the way I looked at this.”

“I haven’t seen something like this before!”

• “You have such a unique perspective.”
• “Your work always surprises me in the best way.”
• “I’ve never read about a character like this.”

“You chose such an interesting subject to write about.”

• “I love how you write about climate change. How did you start writing on this topic?”
• “The way you write about family is so gorgeous.”
• “I didn’t know very much about this, but you made it so interesting!”

“What are your own thoughts on this part?”

• “What do you think motivates this character?”
• “You didn’t mention it in the article itself, but I wanted to know your opinion on the new law.”
• “Why did you start the piece with that scene?”

“I’m still thinking about your work.”

• “Something about this scene really struck me, but I’m still trying to find the words for it.”
• “I just can’t get this part out of my head. Why do you think that is?”
• “I know it’s been a while since I read it, but I just can’t stop thinking about it!”

“Can I read more?”

• “Do you have other articles on this?”
• “When will your next piece come out?”
• “I hope you’ll keep writing. I just *need* more of this.”

“I’d love to support your work.”

• “Where can I buy your books?”
• “Is there any way I can donate?”
• “Would you like a testimonial or letter of recommendation?”

Expert Q&A

• Keep your praise focused on the work itself, rather than the writer or their own personal life. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Offer your compliments at the appropriate time, like during critiques, panels, or when talking about their writing when it comes up organically in conversation. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Respect a writer’s boundaries if they say they’re not comfortable talking about their writing or certain aspects of it. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid offering unsolicited critiques or suggestions about a writer’s work. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid being too verbose or long-winded when offering compliments. Keep commendations short and concise. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid being overly familiar when talking to a writer about their work. You can never tell how much of their writing reflects themselves, and how much is invented. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://writingtipsoasis.com/how-to-peer-edit-an-essay/
• ↑ https://wac.colostate.edu/docs/books/writingspaces3/depeter.pdf
• ↑ https://sg.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-praise-someone-professionally
• ↑ https://www.inc.com/suzanne-lucas/10-things-to-say-instead-of-youre-so-talented.html
• ↑ https://twowritingteachers.org/2017/11/27/strongcompliments/
• ↑ https://www.thecut.com/2015/09/ask-polly-should-i-just-give-up-on-my-writing.html
• ↑ https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/how-to-talk-to-an-artist-120/

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wikiHow's Best Advice on Dating & Love

150 Best Positive Compliments For Praising Someone Anywhere

Here are 150 authentic compliment samples for personal and professional situations—to boost your mood and theirs!

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Simple words of praise can lift someone’s spirit, improve the outlook of someone’s day, and even lead to a new relationship. So why don’t people offer more words of appreciation?

Recent research 1 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0146167220949003?journalCode=pspc tells us why:

• We underestimate how positively the other person would feel if they received a compliment;
• We overestimate how uncomfortable the person would feel in the spotlight;
• We feel uneasy about our ability to give praise.

Rather than giving into praise paralysis, read on for tips on how to genuinely give compliments along with nice things you can say in person and in writing and why saying a kind word benefits you!

Watch our video below to learn how to compliment someone without feeling fake:

Below we have compliment ideas and praise scripts you can use. But first, let’s look at the benefits of praise…

5 Key Benefits of Giving Praise

Receiving a genuine compliment feels great, but did you know that it benefits both the giver and the recipient? It’s true. If you want a pick-me-up, consider finding someone you can praise.

We help others learn

Research 2 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0048174 has shown that being complimented can improve performance and help people learn more quickly. The study found that when people received compliments while learning a new skill, their brains remembered the steps and could repeat the new skill more easily.

This is super helpful, for example, if you’re a manager training a new-hire employee or a parent teaching their child a new skill.

We spread good vibes

When you do something kind, like complimenting someone, there’s a ripple effect that lasts for a while. Results from a 2008 study 3 https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0913149107 suggest that the positive act continues from person to person to person, so one good deed can result in three (or more!) others.

For example, if you compliment a stranger at a Starbucks, that person may say something nice to a coworker later in the day.

Your stress level decreases

Your stress level decreases when you do something kind, like offering a compliment. In one study 4 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2167702615611073 , researchers found that those who performed more acts of kindness throughout the day were less likely to report negative emotions and could maintain their positive emotions better. So if you’re feeling stressed, consider giving a genuine compliment.

When you praise your child for a good deed, the tension in your neck may lessen.

You feel better about yourself 

Offering compliments and other acts of kindness trigger the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood stability. It also boosts your oxytocin, a hormone that makes you feel connected to other people. These two hormones make you feel better about yourself and emotionally stable.

If you’re feeling lonely, take a minute to call or text someone who is important to you. This quick note will help you feel more connected to them, AND you’ll make their day.

You get an immunity boost 

Because stress represses your immune system, reducing stress 5 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889159122003336 can boost your immunity. Of course, stress reduction can happen in a variety of ways, but a simple way to make a difference is by saying something kind to a friend, your partner, a coworker, or even the barista at the coffee shop. 

Look for someone and something to compliment. While you won’t see an immediate immune response, your stress will be reduced, and you’ll be doing something good for your body.

3 Quick Tips for Giving Genuine Compliments

Saying positive words about another doesn’t have to be overwhelming or challenging if you follow these simple tips.

• Be sincere. Believe in what you are saying. A genuine compliment is given without any expectation about the person’s response. However, insincere compliments or fake flattery will be obvious and leave you looking like a jerk.

If you find yourself struggling with not sounding fake when giving compliments, check out how to use adjectives strategically, give praise to someone you don’t know well, and why you should avoid the “real” compliment. Learn these strategies and more. 

• Be specific. While it’s terrific to hear general feedback like “you’re really talented,” the compliment is even better when you hear the particulars. Being specific shows, you know why you think what you do and what you notice about the person’s efforts and genuine personality.

So instead of “you’re a nice person,” you might consider, “I thought it was nice of you to open the door for that person who had their hands full. That was really thoughtful.”

Or instead of “you’re very talented,” you might say, “I liked your creative approach to that problem. I would have never thought about it that way, and I appreciate your design talent.”

• Be quick to offer praise . If you’re complimenting a specific action or behavior, mention it early enough so that the compliment is clearly tied to the action. This works well whether it’s a coworker or your child, and the positive reinforcement helps encourage them to repeat the behavior in the future. Plus, when someone does a good job, it’s nice for them to know it immediately.

Best Compliments to Give in The Workplace

Kind words in the office contribute to a positive workplace by boosting morale and creating a supportive culture. They can also increase employee engagement which, according to science 6 https://www.gallup.com/workplace/321032/employee-engagement-meta-analysis-brief.aspx?thank-you-report-form=1 , boosts team performance and productivity.

But complimenting people at work is an art, so be mindful of these two elements for success.

First, use language that is positive and focused on the work and professional skills rather than on something more personal, like their appearance.

Second, respect the role that you have and the other person has. The nature of the compliment may change depending on whether it’s for the CEO, a colleague, or an employee. Be sure to recognize these unique roles so that neither person is uncomfortable.

Here are some examples of appropriate workplace praise.

Compliment ideas for a boss or supervisor

Even bosses need appreciation, and one of these compliments may make their day.

• Thank you for listening to my concerns.
• Working with you has really helped me grow professionally.
• Thank you for creating a comfortable work environment.
• I really appreciate your guidance.
• Thank you for being clear about your expectations of our team. It’s beneficial.
• Thank you for giving me honest and straightforward feedback.
• I appreciate that you’ve allowed me to tackle this project.
• Your leadership style has provided a model I aspire to use in my own management approach.
• Thank you for allowing me to ask questions without feeling that you’re judging me.
• Thank you for taking the time to hear my feedback on this approach.
• I appreciate that you encourage discussion among our team.
• Thank you for caring about me as a whole person.
• I appreciate that you ask about my family. It means a lot that you see me as more than just an employee.
• Thank you for taking the time to mentor me. I feel like a better person because of the time you’ve taken to help me grow.

Want more on how to level up your skills?

Master Your People Skills

• Create a Memorable Presence
• Communicate with Confidence
• Achieve Your Goals

Have a question about the presentation or People School? Email Science of People support .

Compliment ideas for an employee

Your staff will feel appreciated when their work is recognized and acknowledged.

• I’ve been very impressed with your extra effort lately.
• Thank you for the effort you put into that memo. It was really well-written.
• Thank you for working with our new employee to bring them up to speed. I appreciate your kindness, and I’m sure they do as well.
• I appreciate your reliability and that I can always count on you.
• Thanks for handling that difficult situation with such grace.
• Being your supervisor is a privilege. You have a great attitude, you work hard, and you are always willing to pitch in.
• I couldn’t do this work without you!
• Your presentation was very comprehensive. Thanks for putting it together.
• I appreciate you really taking in feedback from others. I can tell you are really making an effort.
• Thanks for showing up on time every day. I appreciate knowing I can count on you.
• I am grateful for your attention to detail. You are so good at making sure nothing gets overlooked.
• Thank you for making all of us look professional with your powerful presentations.
• You did that so well!
• You are a significant contributor to our positive work environment! 

Compliment ideas for a colleague

A positive workplace lifts everyone up. One of your colleagues may appreciate hearing one of these affirmations from you.

• I am so grateful to be on the same team as you.
• Thanks for trusting me with this critical information.
• You are good at handling pressure during tough times. Would you be willing to share some tips?
• I admire the way you give your full attention to the customer.
• That was an outstanding presentation. Great job!
• I enjoy collaborating with you because you’re so creative.
• I like your approach to solving that problem. It’s not something I would have thought of on my own.
• Your enthusiasm for the company is inspiring.
• Thank you for modeling outstanding teamwork.
• You make coming to work fun with your joke of the day!
• You have a tremendous work ethic.

Practice standing up for yourself while maintaining your likeability with these tips for being assertive .

Need Email Compliments? Try Written Praise

Sometimes putting compliments in writing is appropriate, particularly in cases where you want something to go in an employee file, if the recipient is hesitant to be the center of attention, or if your words may be something they want to reread. Consider using one of these templates:

Praising your boss in writing

Dear [Supervisor],

Thank you for the time you took yesterday to help me better understand the parameters of this new assignment. It makes me feel like a valued team member that you’d ask me to do it. I appreciate that you have an open-door policy and make me feel comfortable asking questions when I have questions.

Best regards,

Complimenting your employee

Dear [name],

I wanted to send you a note to tell you how much I appreciate your attention to detail and contributions. You continue to impress me as an essential member of our team. Keep up the great work.

Complimenting a coworker

I’m sending you this note to tell you how impressed I was with the presentation you gave at yesterday’s meeting. It was so well done, and your expertise in this area shone through. Great job!

Best Meaningful Compliments To Give to Various Audiences

Now that you know the benefits of giving compliments and tips for doing it well, here are 150 compliments you can give to the people in your life.

General compliments

A kind word is always appreciated. Here are several general ones you can use with anyone you encounter.

• I appreciate you for [fill in the blank with an adjective].
• I’m so glad I met you.
• I’m glad we ran into each other. It’s the highlight of my day.
• I hope my child grows up to be like you.
• You are my favorite human to [fill in favorite activity].
• You are all that and a bag of chips.
• I wish more people were like you.
• You make me smile.
• You are a great listener.
• You have excellent posture. I bet your grandmother is so proud of you.
• You keep me motivated to keep going when times are tough.
• I have so much fun when I am with you.
• You are like a ray of sunshine.
• Being your friend is like winning the friend lottery.
• Who raised you? They deserve a gold star for a job well done.
• Being with you is like a happy little vacation.
• You deserve a medal for awesomeness.
• You light up a room every time you enter it.
• You have a magnetic personality, and people are drawn to it, just like a moth to a flame.
• You radiate goodness.

Compliments on personal traits

Who doesn’t want to receive a compliment about the characteristics or traits they embody? Try one of these when you want to remind people of what you find impressive or special about them.

• You are so diplomatic.
• You are level-headed in the best way.
• You have great style.
• I wish everyone had your courage.
• I love your strength.
• You are a beacon of light.
• You are the personification of joy.
• I like your bravery.
• You are incredible.
• You have a beautiful voice.
• I love that you make the person you’re speaking with feel like they’re the only person in the room.
• Your authenticity is inspiring.
• I like that you set a goal and go after it.
• You are so thoughtful.
• I like your commitment to being 100% you.
• You have terrific self-awareness.
• You have the best laugh.
• You have impeccable grammar.
• You have impeccable manners.
• Your positive attitude is infectious!
• You have a great sense of humor.
• You have time management skills nailed.
• I appreciate I can be myself around you.
• You are so open to learning new things and meeting new people.
• Thank you for being so flexible.
• You are so patient with yourself and others. I admire that trait.
• I love that you choose to see the best in everyone. 

Compliments on intelligence

• These compliments highlight a person’s intellect and smarts.
• You’re brilliant.
• You are a fantastic problem-solver.
• You would be my choice for a partner on trivia night.
• You have an amazing recall for every song lyric on the plant.
• I completely believe you can do anything you decide to tackle.
• You come up with the best ideas.
• I love that you’re a lifelong learner.
• You are the grammar queen.
• I appreciate that you are quick to recognize when you’ve made a mistake and fix it.
• You have a good head on your shoulders.
• You are a great teacher because you are so patient and understanding with your explanation.
• You are so bright, and I appreciate you for not looking down on me while I learn new things.
• I love how you speak about your passion for [subject] and teach me about it.
• I admire your ambition and drive.
• You’re so intelligent. I bet you do Sudoku in ink.
• Would you mind if I called you Einstein because you’re so smart?
• I would definitely pick you to be my trivia partner every time.

Compliments on creativity

• These compliments note a person’s creativity and can be used in a variety of situations.
• You make the colors of the rainbow come together in a beautiful painting.
• I am impressed at how you pulled that together to create something unique.
• I need some creative input, and you are the best thinker I know. Can you help?
• You have such a cool way of thinking about things.
• You are the glitter goddess. Everything you do shines!
• I love how you take old materials and turn them into new things.
• It’s fascinating to watch you create something from nothing.
• You have a gift of turning the routine into something extraordinary.
• You are like a beautiful splash of color in the world.
• The way you’ve put together your home is impressive. It feels like a warm hug.
• I love that you see the world through a different lens. It brings color and life to it.
• Your art moves me to tears.
• I have never read anything that moved me as much as your article. Just phenomenal.

Compliments on service

• When you want someone to feel great, say something about their willingness to help others. Here are a few options to consider.
• You are the most giving person I know.
• I think your picture appears in the dictionary with Mother Teresa next to the word –servant.
• I admire your willingness to help anyone in need.
• Thank you for offering your time, talent, and gifts to me.
• You are so generous with your knowledge.
• Your spirit of giving is so inspiring.
• Thank you for helping me out with that project. It was really lovely to spend time with you.
• I appreciate the extra brainpower in attacking that issue. Thank you for being available to help.
• Thank you for a great dining experience. Your service was impeccable.
• You made this process so easy. Thank you for your outstanding customer service.
• I’d like to write a thank you to your boss to highlight how easy you made this process. Would you please provide me with their contact information?
• Your service was tremendous. I hope your boss recognizes just how fabulous you are.

Compliments on appearance

Hearing a positive remark about your appearance can really lift your spirits if in the right context. But these compliments are most appropriate for personal or social situations. Keep appearance-based compliments out of the workplace to avoid any misunderstanding or discomfort.

Additionally, you’ll want to be sensitive to the fact that comments related to appearance may be triggering for people suffering from an eating disorder or with body image issues.

• Your hair looks so good today.
• You are glowing in the best way.
• Your outfit is on-point.
• I love your [fill in the blank]. Would you share your styling tips?
• Your eyes are sparkling today.
• I love how the sun is shining almost as bright as your eyes.
• You look stunning.
• That blouse highlights your eyes.
• I love seeing your friendly smile.
• You smell delicious today.
• Your laugh is contagious.
• I love your shirt. Where did you get it? Imitation is the highest form of flattery, right?
• I love your bald head. It shows off your good brain shape.
• You are so put together today. I like it!
• You have such a warm smile.
• You look fabulous no matter what you’re wearing.
• You’d look like someone I’d want to be friends with.
• You look so cozy today—like a warm hug waiting to be given.
• Great outfit!

Pro Tip: Give Compliments Based on Love Language

Do you prefer to hear kind words spoken or to receive a lovely card or email with a kind sentiment so you can save it and refer back to it? Because each person has a different primary love language , the way you give your compliment can be amplified if you have the benefit of knowing their love language.

Watch our video below to find your love language and improve your relationship’s communication:

Here are ways you might match your compliment with the different love languages.

If their love language is quality time, you might say, “I’d love to hike with you today to show you what an amazing person I think you are.”

If physical touch helps them feel loved, consider saying, “I want to give you a foot rub because I know you’re always on your feet helping others, which I greatly admire in you.”

• If gifts is their love language, consider buying something and saying, “I offer you this gift as my way of saying I think you’re divine!”

If acts of service speak to them, you might try something like this: “I see you doing so much to help others, and I’d like to do something for you. Can I clean the garage or fold the laundry?”

• Finally, while all of these examples include words of affirmation, if it is the primary love language, they will really appreciate the specifics of the compliment—and they may have a preference about whether it is written or spoken to them.

If you struggle with understanding another person’s emotions and relating to people, learn 15 habits to be more empathetic using our empathy guide.  

The Big Praise Takeaway

Compliments can be a happiness bomb for you and make another person’s day, so don’t forget the value they extending kind words can have. Following these tips can help you become more confident in your words of affirmation.

Be authentic. Identify something you value or that resonates with your friend/colleague/partner. It may be something like generosity, flexibility, or creativity.

Consider how the person reflects that trait. Think about how and why the person reflects that trait or value. For example, if generosity is important, and your colleague is willing to spend time with you, remark on that.  

For example, “It sure meant a lot that you took time out of your day to help me move ahead on my assignment. It made me feel important and valued.”

Keep it sincere and specific. Try to be genuine in your praise and use adjectives to add specificity to your compliment. It’s much more meaningful when a specific trait and experience is highlighted.

If you loved this article and want to learn more about getting people to like you (and receiving more compliments!), learn about the similarity-attraction effect and five science-based strategies to be more likable .

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A Simple Compliment Can Make a Big Difference

by Erica Boothby , Xuan Zhao and Vanessa Bohns

Summary .   

There is ample evidence that giving someone else a boost, whether giving compliments or expressing gratitude, has a mood-lifting effect and contributes to well-being. But we often hold back, unnecessarily, because we aren’t well calibrated to the actual effects our positive messages have on others. When it comes to deciding whether to express praise or appreciation to another person, doubt often creeps in. We are overly concerned about our ability to convey praise skillfully (“What if my delivery is awkward?”), and our anxiety leaves us feeling overly pessimistic about the effects our messages will have. Sadly, people’s pessimism causes them to refrain from engaging in this behavior that would make everyone better off.

Establishing a positive organizational culture, one in which employees and managers support one another, should be a top priority for organizations. Expressing praise and gratitude is particularly important for keeping up morale. Gratitude makes people feel valued , and positive feedback has been shown to mitigate the negative effects of stress on employee performance. Neuroscientists have even shown that the brain processes verbal affirmations similarly to financial rewards. As Alan Mulally, former CEO of Ford, has been quoted as saying of his employees, “It’s all about appreciating them, respecting them and thanking them at every step of the way.” While the importance of expressing praise and gratitude for establishing a positive organizational culture is clear, our research suggests that people may not follow Mulally’s advice because they underestimate the positive impact of kind words on others.

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How to Write Meaningful Peer Response Praise

Praise is an important element of peer and teacher feedback—it can, to quote Donald Daiker, “lift the hearts, as well as the pens” of student authors—but substantive praise is one of the most challenging modes of feedback to compose (112). How can writing instructors move student responders beyond standard comments such as “Great paper!” or “I liked it” or “Good details”? This chapter is a guide for students in composition classes, and aims to help them understand the importance of giving and receiving detailed, conversational praise; it presents scenarios for conceptualizing how to write praise, provides sample student writing excerpts that invite students to practice writing praise, offers and analyzes examples of different types of student-authored praise comments, and provides an array of approaches to writing praise comments.

In some first year writing classes, peer feedback days parallel the char- acters’ journey into the Appalachian caves in Neil Marshall’s horror film The Descent .* A group of female friends goes on an annual thrill-seeking adventure, climbing their way through a complex, uncharted cave, only to encounter some ferocious monsters, as well as their own inner demons. Vivian Sobchack characterizes the chaos depicted in the film this way: “Eventually trapped within the cave system by a rock slide, the six women become separated, each person or little group fitfully lit through different means to allow us to see their struggles in stroboscopic glimpses—and then often to wish we hadn’t” (41).

Comparing the film to a first year writing class, the “descent” into peer feedback can sometimes leave all parties lost and helpless: we teachers bemoan the ragged and inconsistent quality of some peer comments, and you, who often complain only to us when your peers do a slack job writing comments on your work. Too often, all of us “wish we hadn’t” wasted time at all doing peer response.

A few years ago, I had a student (we’ll call him Ray) whose peer response routine involved shuffling through his peers’ papers—which were to be responded to as homework—and writing generic comments quickly at the start of class. “Good opening,” he would write, then next to each paragraph, “Give examples,” and at the bottom, “I like the ending, but maybe expand.” I began to realize all his comments were the same, and a student who was in his group confirmed that he never read his partners’ essays before writing feedback.

Now, that’s a descent .

Why go into the cave at all, we might ask, especially if even one of your peers approaches the task with such disregard? Or, what about the fact that some writers ignore your feedback anyway, preferring to only pay attention to the instructor’s comments, because “they are the one giving the grade”? Not too long ago, Fred, a student taking his second composition course with me, told his group as he handed his peer feedback to them: “You can ignore these; I’m just trying to get plusses on my feedback.” (I assign grades of Plus, Check, or Check Minus on feedback, with some brief commentary about how responders could improve next time.) I was struck by Fred’s admission, and his willingness to participate in writing peer responses that he didn’t fully stand behind.

The psychology going on in peer groups reminds me of some of the conclusions I drew working on my dissertation on peer response while a graduate student at Florida State University. I collected and studied my students’ peer feedback and their thoughts about the feedback they gave/ received. I noticed that:

• Students placed greater value in professors’ feedback vs. peers’, usually ignoring peer responses unless they were forced to use them in revisions;
• Students often felt poorly qualified to write meaningful responses, since they saw themselves as merely adequate, “not good enough to tell someone else how to write;”
• Students were often reluctant to write questions, which they viewed as critical, because they did not want to be perceived as “judging” their peers’ experiences, thoughts, or feelings;

Students would often judge their peers’ writing based on what they thought a teacher would want, rather than their own criteria for what makes writing good; and

Students initially tended to comment on things that were easier to “fix” like grammar or spelling mistakes, and paragraph size.

You may see yourself in one or more of these attitudes, and you may have received or given feedback similarly to Ray or Fred. Such attitudes and approaches are natural: given how sensitive the act of sharing an essay can be, these attitudes and others create a complex dynamic in small groups, leading some of us to prefer to avoid peer feedback, especially if we have not established trust with our group. As a result of these ways of thinking, some writers become frustrated working in small groups, because they don’t put much faith in the process or in the weak comments they anticipate receiving.

As a way of free falling right into this metaphorical dark cave, let’s jumpstart your class discussion of peer response strategies. I recognize that there are additional types of feedback, such as asking questions, giving advice, and editing or correcting errors, but this essay is going to focus on one important type of feedback.

How to Write Meaningful Praise

Think of a favorite food (I’m sure you have many, but pick one for now.). Why do you like it? What can you say about that food that conveys why that food is enjoyable to you? It is not enough, really, to say that you like it “because it tastes good.” In this sense, good just becomes an empty word that doesn’t really say anything.

I like pepperoni pizza. My two favorite places are Angelone’s in Port- land, Maine, and Burke Street Pizza in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. What I really like is how, on theirs, the slices of pepperoni curl up just a little and get crispy around the edges, leaving a tiny bit of oil residue in- side. I also like how their pepperoni slices can easily be bitten into, rather than the big round slabs of pepperoni that some pizzerias use, which sort of slide off whole when you chomp into them, pulling along large segments of cheese. Sure, there are plenty of places that offer adequate pizza, but only rare places like these make pepperoni pizzas that I really like.

It is easy (and somewhat distracting!) to come up with details to de- scribe the foods we like; but, what about writing we like? Why do we like it? What does it mean to “like” an opening sentence, an image, an insight? Since you don’t want to be that student who just jots generic comments down the margins in a hurry, like Ray made a habit of doing, I encourage your class, before workshops even begin, to do an inventory of what makes you like (or dislike) certain features of writing. Not just what makes writing “good,” but what makes writing really work for us, as individual readers.

Are you a reader who likes detail in the form of facts and data—such as a newspaper article about Dustin Pedroia’s injury, one that provides statistics showing how well the Red Sox play when he has been in the line-up compared to their win-loss record without him? Or are you a reader who likes to “discern” by reading in between the lines what an author might mean? Do you like to learn about new things, places, people, ideas, when you read, or do you prefer to read about that which is familiar? Do you like writing that makes you feel sadness or frustration, or do you prefer to read stories that look on the brighter side? It is good to know these things about yourself, as you approach any new text.

Now consider this: Is it even possible to like the writing that you and your peers have to do for classes? Not always. But, I would argue that you don’t have to like the academic writing your peers share with you (i.e., enjoy it the way I enjoy most any article about the Boston Red Sox) in order to praise what’s working for you as a reader.

Meaningful praise, then, is feedback that recognizes something that is working for you as a reader, that gives you an opportunity to have a dialogue with the author, and that expresses some sort of appreciation for the work the writer has done, or for the writer herself.

I remember when my student who wrote about his football experiences included a detail about coaches making him run up and down the bleachers with garbage bags wrapped tightly around his torso so he could get “in condition” for the upcoming game (I believe this is not allowed anymore). He did not use extensive description or need to. Through one well-chosen detail, he was able to illustrate what the players had to do and reveal some of the complexities of being a competitive athlete: his detail allowed the reader to imagine the exhaustion, and to question the methods the coaches used to get some players into shape. Praising the student’s use of detail had to involve more than just telling him “nice detail.” It meant explaining, as succinctly as I could fit in the margin, what made it work, for me as one reader: “A nice detail. You’ve already got me appreciating the physical and emotional stress an elite athlete experiences. It must have been draining. How do you feel now about the coaches’ methods?” Here is an alternative praise comment, from a peer who likes the passage because he can relate to it: “Good description. Our coaches used to do this too. I like how you make people who don’t know what it’s like understand what we go through to compete.”

Practice Session 1

Let’s practice writing praise in response to an actual sample of student writing, the beginning of a personal exploration by Lili Velez. As you read the following excerpt, consider what praise you could write:

Examinations Outside the Classroom

We panic, we pack, we get to college, and then panic again, moaning, “I wish I had known I’d need this!” “This” could be any- thing from that extra pillow to the answers to a high school test on Hamlet , or it might be something more abstract, like how to deal with issues we never thought we would encounter outside a classroom. For example, when a philosophy professor asks us to examine what is evil and what is good, that’s okay; we’re getting graded on it. But do we ask such questions in the cafeteria? In the dormitory? At home? Who needs to ponder academic questions outside of class? It’s an invasion of our private lives. I thought so until a question followed me home and shook up my ideas on what belonged in the classroom and what I should never be without.

It was English 102, in small group discussion of my friend Donna’s paper, which was about whether fighting was a natural tendency, as it is in other animals that live in groups. (337)

It would be easy enough to write next to Lili’s first paragraph “good opening.” It would be simple enough to say that the opening is “descriptive” or “captivating.” But, if you like the opening of this essay, what really causes your positive reaction? Even just as a draft, why does this opening work for you, as a reader? Take a moment to write two or three sentences describing what it is you like about Lili’s writing so far, and imagine you are writing these words directly to her in a conversation.

Is it the word choice? The arrangement of sentences? Her use of detail (the pillow, Hamlet )? Does it have something to do with the voice or tone? The way she uses questions? It could be any or all of these things, or something else altogether. I liked the commas and repetition in the first sentence, which create a sense of tension in the writing. (I am the kind of reader who likes some tension in what I read.) I also liked the feeling of momentum. Even just a little bit into the second paragraph, I am curious to hear more about what happened in her small group and the discussion about Donna’s paper. As Keith Hjortshoj describes in The Transition to College Writing :

Beginnings are points of departure, when readers expect to learn what this writing is about and the general direction it will take. Even if these beginnings do not explicitly map the routes the writing will travel, they tell us where this journey will start, point us in a certain direction, and provide some bearings for the next move. (115)

Lili is trying to do just that: engage the reader, point us in a specific direction, and pose a central question that will guide the exploration forward.

Elaine Mamon, Lili’s instructor in the class, praised Lili for her courage to tackle a challenging topic and for making the reader “feel like getting into the conversation” (Velez 340).

Practice Session 2

When writing meaningful praise, you might consider using a technique associated with rhetorician Donald Murray, who was known for writing his praise to students using this format: “I like the way you…” (qtd. in Daiker 111). By including some praise written this way, you help writers enhance their audience awareness. As you read the following excerpt, the opening of a personal essay my student Nick wrote about declining wildlife in Pennsylvania, write 2–3 praise comments in Murray’s “I like the way you…” format:

Where the Wild Things Roamed

And there we found ourselves, on my hike in the woods with my dog Loki, his eyes fixed upon a herd of deer who stared back at him with the same intense interest. You could see it stir within them, the ancient war between their kind, Loki likely thinking “Must chase! Must bite!” though he probably does not know why, and the deer screaming in their minds, “The wolf! The wolf!” despite the ironic fact that these deer have never seen a wolf. For there are no wolves in these woods, nor in all of Pennsylvania. Gone are the days of wolves and mountain lions prowling through these woods giving the deer something to truly fear rather than this would-be predator at the end of my leash.

And here I am looking at these deer and wondering, “How are you all that’s left?” (Brewster 1)

After completing your praise comments, I recommend talking with others in class about what you praised, how you worded each comment, and what it was like writing responses this way.

Donald Daiker believes that writers become less apprehensive when they “experience success” and that “genuine praise can lift the hearts, and the pens, of the writers who sit in our classrooms” (106, 112). After receiving fifteen sets of feedback from his classmates throughout the semester, which all had to include several praise comments, Nick explained his emerging confidence: “I ended up deciding to let my creativity loose despite how un- comfortable it made me. I ended up finding myself greatly enjoying some of my later works. The more confident I became in my writings the more I experimented with my creativity.” In one of his final peer comments on a classmate’s meta-essay, Nick acknowledges the role positive peer feedback had played in their mutual development: “Great point and I agree. We helped one another write about more personal feelings and dilemmas.”

Examples of Peer Response Praise

Let’s look at several other praise comments Nick writes on his classmates’ essays. For context, most of the papers students wrote in this class revolved around animals, or writing, and sometimes both:

• Repeating the questions was an effective follow-up to your intro sentence
• Nice allusion. Very creative way of describing your writings.
• Notice how Nick refers to specific choices the writer had made. Here are some comments Nick writes on Carolyn’s essay about six cats she has owned throughout her life. Sometimes, Nick praises Carolyn for the choices she makes as a writer, and sometimes he praises her personally, but all of them are conversational:
• Good details that add to each cat’s character
• Interesting how everyone ended up getting their “own” cat
• The font change is a good touch [Carolyn had switched fonts for a passage that recreated a letter she would have written as a child to her cat who had passed away]
• Recognizing how you’ve changed over time and looking back on your younger self is such a human thing to do and extremely relatable. I think we’ve all been there.
• Great imagery and comical, picturing this level of organization from a child
• LOL! Nice touch and some comic relief after the passing of Chester

Occasionally, Nick writes what Rick Straub and Ronald Lunsford refer to as combination comments, wherein a praise comment is joined with a question or tentative advice. For example, in response to Jordan’s essay about his dog Quinn, Nick writes:

• Good descriptions [of Quinn]. Maybe could add more? Hair type, face, size?

On Rose’s essay, which analyzes the effects of a social media influencer who hoards animals (particularly rats and reptiles), Nick combines praise, analysis, and a rhetorical question:

• Good point. It does certainly appear we care about some animals more than others. Would people care more if it was a room full of puppies, for example?

Notice how in responding to Rose’s argument, Nick has joined the conversation as a reader. The best peer feedback does not just inflate the writer’s ego but keeps the conversation about the writing, and about the topic, moving forward. The praise you receive can help you understand what goes on in your readers’ minds, and better shape your writing for an audience.

In his article “Responding—Really Responding—To Other Students’ Writing,” Straub encourages you to “Challenge yourself to write as many praise comments as criticisms. When you praise, praise well. Sincerity and specificity are everything when it comes to a compliment” (192). Nick includes a good deal of praise in his sets of feedback, and his comments are specific and sincere.

Final Advice and Thoughts

You may try to write your peer response using different color pens—for example, green for praise, orange for combination comments, or green to praise stylistic techniques and blue to praise ideas. Also, give yourself enough space and time to write conversational praise. As an example, Andrea writes in the space next to Jordan’s title “The Unwritten”: I really like your title—it fits well with the theme running through about things we must accept in life that are too complicated to be written in a rulebook. Since you only mention writing a couple times in the piece, it’s nice and subtle.  In the left margin of Carolyn’s essay “Alone,” Andrea writes, I like the repetition of the two phrases “ but I am alone” and “my cat who is on my chest.” Even though there are multiple metaphors in this piece, keeping the repetition going grounds the reader to where the narrator is and really creates the feeling of what it’s like when your body isn’t moving but your brain is going a million miles an hour. Andrea writes small and can fit this comment in the top margin, but you may want to write lengthier praise on the back of the page or in an endnote/letter to the author. Although it takes a bit more time to write such conversational praise, compared to “Good title,” or “I like the repetition,” Andrea’s comments say so much more to Jordan and Carolyn. They are examples of what Donald Daiker would describe as “genuine praise” (112).

Being a peer responder is not just about being a good one or a bad one, it is, just as it is with your writing, about your investment in joining a real conversation with others. When combined with additional types of peer feedback that you will practice—such as asking questions, giving advice for revision, critiquing an argument’s shortcomings, and/or making corrections—praising well and with sincerity will help your classmates improve their writing and enhance their desire to write with a specific audience in mind. Together, you will avoid “the descent” and develop as writers and readers, and maybe even enjoy the journey together.

Works Cited

Teacher resources for "how to write meaningful peer response praise" by ron depeter, introduction for teachers.

Instructors could assign this essay in a first-year or upper-level writing course or workshop, during the early part of a semester when students are practicing peer feedback. The essay is in some sense an indirect sequel to Straub’s “Response—Really Responding—To Other Students’ Writing,” looking more in-depth at one specific mode of peer response. It is recommended that students have opportunities to practice writing feedback— perhaps on one or more sample essays that the instructor has collected from previous students. Ideally, students should practice writing each mode of commentary (for example, 1–2 sessions writing praise, 1–2 sessions writing questions/advice, 1–2 sessions combining several modes) before diving into small group or whole class workshops. Ideally, the instructor can give some feedback or grades on the practice feedback, letting the students know how they are doing and how they might improve (e.g., write more comments, make comments more specific, etc.). After each peer feedback practice session, and in the “real” workshops with classmates, students can reflect in their journal/class discussion on how they feel they are coming along as responders, as well as how they feel about the comments received. Such meta-writings are essential threads that facilitate the students’ growth as readers and responders.

Discussion Questions

• Do any of the attitudes about peer response that DePeter discusses in the beginning of his essay apply to you (e.g., not wanting to “judge” others or regarding a teacher’s feedback as more important than peers’)? Where do you imagine these attitudes come from?
• How do you think Nick (or any peer) would feel hearing the praise comments written in the Donald Murray style of “I like the way you…”? What effect would such praise have on the writer, com- pared to just seeing “Good” next to a passage?
• Do you feel there is a difference between what you feel is “good writing,” and that which teachers have identified as “good?” If so, what accounts for these different expectations? What is your definition of “good writing?”

Can you think of ways that Nick or Andrea’s peer response praise could be even sharper, or more helpful to an author?

Discuss experiences you have had in other classes sharing peer response. Have they been a metaphorical “Descent,” or enjoyable journeys? What made your peer response sessions in the past work, or not work?

This essay was written by Ron DePeter and published as a chapter in Writing Spaces: Readings on Writing , Volume 3, a peer-reviewed open textbook series for the writing classroom. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) .

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Readings on Writing

How to Write Meaningful Peer Response Praise

Ron depeter, chapter description.

Praise is an important element of peer and teacher feedback—it can, to quote Donald Daiker, “lift the hearts, as well as the pens” of student authors—but substantive praise is one of the most challenging modes of feedback to compose (112). How can writing instructors move student responders beyond standard comments such as “Great paper!” or “I liked it” or “Good details”? This chapter is a guide for students in composition classes, and aims to help them understand the importance of giving and receiving detailed, conversational praise; it presents scenarios for conceptualizing how to write praise, provides sample student writing excerpts that invite students to practice writing praise, offers and analyzes examples of different types of student-authored praise comments, and provides an array of approaches to writing praise comments.

Alternate Downloads: 

You may also download this chapter from Parlor Press or WAC Clearinghouse.

Writing Spaces is published in partnership with  Parlor Press  and  WAC Clearinghouse .

Praise Someone for Their Work – 50 Examples

We all know the feeling of working tirelessly on a project, putting our heart and soul into it, and then receiving little to no recognition for our efforts. This lack of praise can leave us feeling undervalued and demotivated. However, a simple act of acknowledging someone’s hard work and praising them for it can have a powerful impact. In this article, we have compiled an extensive list of 50 examples to help you praise someone for their work. If you want to praise someone for a job well done, a milestone reached, or just because you appreciate their hard work, these examples will help you write thoughtful and meaningful messages that will make their day.

Why Is It Important to Praise Someone for Their Work?

In our fast-paced, results-oriented society, it can be easy to overlook the importance of acknowledging and praising someone for their hard work. However, taking the time to offer genuine praise can have a profound impact on individuals and teams alike.

Increased Morale and Productivity

First and foremost, offering praise to someone for their work shows that their efforts are noticed and appreciated. It validates their hard work and dedication and serves as a powerful motivator to continue putting in their best effort. When individuals feel valued and recognized for their contributions, they are more likely to feel a sense of job satisfaction and pride in their work. This, in turn, leads to increased morale and productivity.

Positive and Supportive Work Environment

Additionally, praising someone for their work fosters a positive and supportive work environment. When colleagues see their peers receiving recognition and praise, it sets a precedent for celebrating and uplifting one another. This creates a culture of encouragement and support, where individuals feel comfortable and motivated to give their best effort.

Increase Overall Team Performance

Furthermore, offering praise to someone for their work can have a ripple effect on overall team performance. When individuals feel valued and appreciated, they are more likely to collaborate effectively, share ideas, and work towards a common goal. This, in turn, leads to improved teamwork and increased success.

It’s a Professional Responsibility

Lastly, praising someone for their work is simply the right thing to do. Behind every successful project or accomplishment is a team of individuals who poured their time, energy, and passion into making it happen. Recognizing and appreciating their efforts not only acknowledges their hard work but also fosters a culture of gratitude and kindness.

50 Examples of Ways to Praise Someone for Their Work

Recognizing and offering praise to someone for their hard work can make a world of difference in their motivation and job satisfaction. But how exactly can we go about praising someone in a genuine and meaningful way? Here are 50 examples to inspire you:

Verbal Praises

• “Your performance exceeds expectations in every aspect. Your dedication and attention to detail are truly remarkable.”
• “You did an excellent job. It was clear that you knew what you were doing and that you were able to handle the difficult parts of the task easily.”
• “Your work shows not only your skills but also your passion and commitment to excellence.”
• “Your consistent high-quality output and ability to shine under pressure make you an invaluable asset. You’re a rock star!”
• “Your work demonstrates a level of professionalism and proficiency that sets an example for everyone.”
• “Your conduct and work ethic exemplify what it means to be a dedicated and skilled professional. You’re a true professional!”
• You put in a lot of hard work, and you really wanted to do a great job. That’s awesome!”
• “You make even the hardest tasks look easy because you’re so good at them. It’s clear you know what you’re doing.”
• “Your exceptional abilities and consistent performance set a benchmark for excellence.”
• “Your contributions go beyond individual success, benefiting and uplifting the entire team. You’re a real asset to the team.”

Encouraging Praises

• “You consistently bring innovative ideas to the table. Keep up the great work!”
• “Your progress and adaptability demonstrate that you’re moving in the right direction.”
• “Your unwavering commitment to your work inspires everyone around you.”
• “You’re getting better and better at what you do because you’re always learning new things.”
• “Your dedication and loyalty to the task at hand are truly admirable. Your commitment is commendable!”

Specific Praises

• “You are very careful and pay attention to even the smallest details. This makes sure that your work is always accurate and of the highest quality.”
• “Your innovative thinking and ability to think outside the box bring fresh perspectives and solutions to every task. Your creativity knows no bounds!”
• “Your ability to guide and lead played a vital role in achieving our collective success. Your leadership was instrumental!”
• “Your creative and groundbreaking solution showcases your ability to think divergently and find unique answers to challenging problems.”
• “Your in-depth analysis and comprehensive approach to tackling issues reflect your depth of knowledge and expertise in the subject matter.”

Appreciative Praises

• “Your consistent dedication and effort are deeply appreciated and play a significant role in the success of our endeavors. Thank you for your hard work.”
• “Your contributions go beyond measure and are indispensable to our team’s achievements.”
• “Your unwavering commitment and loyalty to the task at hand do not go unnoticed and are greatly valued. I appreciate your dedication.”
• “Your consistent hard work and dedication are recognized and highly valued by everyone.”
• “Your steadfast commitment to achieving goals sets a standard for others to follow and admire.”

Supportive Praises

• “You are very talented and I believe you will be successful. I have faith in your abilities.”
• “Your skills, determination, and attitude equip you with everything needed to conquer any challenge. You’ve got what it takes!”
• “You never give up, and you always find a way to overcome challenges. This is an inspiration to everyone around you.”
• “You never give up and always strive to succeed, even when things are difficult. This is an inspiration to others who see your hard work and dedication.”
• “Your talents and drive are unmistakable indicators of a bright and successful future. You’re destined for greatness!”

Collaborative Praises

• “You’re great at working together with the team, and this helps us all succeed. You’re an excellent team player!”
• “Your willingness to collaborate, communicate, and integrate ideas enriches the team dynamics and enhances productivity.”
• “You make sure everyone on the team works well together to reach our goals. You’re great at bringing people together!”
• “Your supportive attitude and willingness to assist others significantly impact team morale and productivity.”
• “Your ideas and suggestions make our meetings and decisions better. Your input is highly valuable .”

Motivational Praises

• “Your high standards and dedication to doing great work inspire others to do their best. You set a high standard for everyo ne.”
• “Your strong work ethic serves as a role model, inspiring others to give their best efforts.”
• “Your actions and accomplishments inspire and motivate others to reach for their own goals. You’re a true inspiration to others.”
• “Your enthusiasm and passion for your work ignite similar fervor in others, creating a positive and productive environment.”
• “Your ability to encourage and inspire others through your actions and words drives the team forward. You’re a motivator for the team!”

Constructive Praises

• “You’re great at handling changes and solving problems, and I really appreciate that. Your adaptability is impressive!”
• “Your willingness to accept critical feedback and use it constructively for improvement is a testament to your growth mindset.”
• “Your eagerness to expand your knowledge and skills is praiseworthy and sets a great example for continuous improvement.”
• “Your ability to bounce back from setbacks with determination and strength is truly remarkable.”
• “Your consistent efforts to develop and grow personally and professionally are inspiring to witness.”

Acknowledgment Praises

• “Your expertise and depth of knowledge in your field are clearly evident and greatly appreciated.”
• “Your professionalism and mastery of your field set you apart as an exemplary professional. You’re a true professional in your field.”
• “Your remarkable achievements are a testament to your capabilities and speak volumes about your dedication.”
• “Your influence and impact extend far beyond your immediate responsibilities, positively affecting the larger picture.”
• “The quality and impact of your work are so evident that it resonates and speaks volumes about your expertise and dedication. Your work speaks for itself.”

The Difference Between Genuine Praise and Empty Compliments

Praising someone for their work is an important and effective way to show appreciation and recognition. However, it’s essential to understand the difference between genuine praise and empty compliments. Genuine praise comes from a place of authenticity and sincerity. It acknowledges the specific qualities or actions that deserve recognition and highlights the impact they have had. It goes beyond surface-level compliments and demonstrates a true understanding of the person’s contributions.

On the other hand, empty compliments lack substance and meaning. They may sound nice on the surface but do not hold any genuine value. Empty compliments are generic and lack specificity. They fail to recognize the unique qualities or efforts that make someone’s work exceptional. Instead, they can come across as insincere or manipulative.

When someone receives genuine praise, they feel seen and appreciated for their unique abilities and contributions. It boosts their confidence and motivation, encouraging them to continue excelling in their work. In contrast, empty compliments may leave someone feeling skeptical or undervalued. They may question the sincerity behind the praise and feel disheartened by the lack of genuine recognition.

To ensure your praise is genuine, take the time to understand the person’s work and identify specific qualities or actions that deserve recognition. Be specific in your praise, highlighting the impact they have had and expressing sincere appreciation. Avoid generic or empty compliments that lack substance.

Remember, genuine praise is a powerful tool that can uplift and motivate others. By providing sincere and meaningful recognition, you contribute to a positive and supportive work environment where individuals feel valued and motivated to excel.

Praise as a Tool for Employee Recognition and Retention

Praising someone for their work goes beyond simply making them feel good in the moment. It can actually be a powerful tool for employee recognition and retention. When employees feel appreciated and recognized for their efforts, they are more likely to feel motivated, satisfied, and engaged in their work.

Recognition plays a key role in fostering a positive work environment. When employees receive praise for their hard work, they feel valued and acknowledged. This boosts their morale and encourages them to continue giving their best effort. They are more likely to feel a sense of job satisfaction and pride in their work, leading to increased productivity and improved performance.

Moreover, praising employees for their work can contribute to higher employee retention rates. When employees feel recognized and appreciated, they are more likely to be loyal to their organization and less likely to seek employment elsewhere. Recognition helps create a sense of loyalty and commitment, as employees feel a stronger connection to their organization and are more invested in its success.

In addition, praising employees for their work can also have a positive impact on team dynamics. When individuals receive recognition, it sets a precedent for celebrating and uplifting one another. This creates a culture of support and encouragement, where employees feel motivated to collaborate, share ideas, and work towards a common goal. This leads to improved teamwork and increased success for the entire organization.

Recognizing and offering praise to someone for their good work not only helps to motivate and build confidence but also strengthens relationships and encourages a positive work culture. It is not just a nice thing to do; it is a strategic tool for employee recognition and retention. By providing genuine and meaningful praise, organizations can create a positive and supportive work environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and committed to their work and the organization as a whole. Let’s spread positivity and uplift each other with these powerful examples of praise!

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How To Compliment Someone: Tips And Examples

Everyone loves a compliment, right? It’s nice to hear what other people notice and admire about you. And as lovely as it is to receive a compliment, it’s equally important to find opportunities to share your own compliments with other people. 

Compliments aren’t just nice, empty words we say to one another. They’re a way of sharing the special reasons why we value others and of bringing them closer to us in our relationships. The key to giving a good compliment is noticing the uniquely wonderful things about other people and sharing it with them in the most specific and genuine way possible. Here’s a handy guide to how to craft authentic compliments that spread joy and let the people in your life know they’re one of a kind.

What is a compliment?

A compliment is “an expression of praise, commendation, or admiration” that’s used to point out ways people excel or things they do that set them apart.

Typically, a compliment consists of a statement of praise based on a specific event, quality, or characteristic. Most compliments also employ descriptive adjectives , like outstanding or fantastic . The key to giving a good compliment is making sure that it’s both personal and genuine.

What is worthy of a compliment?

It’s normal to compliment things like someone’s creative outfit or their great performance in a basketball game, but there are plenty of other things that are compliment-worthy as well. If you’re looking to spread some positivity and let others know how much they’re appreciated, here are some different areas where you might look for things to compliment.

Personality

If someone is a joy to be around, you can tell them that. Let them know about things you admire, how they make you feel, and how they inspire you in your own life. Here are some examples:

• I love how kind you are.
• Your patience inspires me to be more forgiving and generous with others.
• I admire how determined you are when you strongly believe in something.

If someone is working hard to better themselves or reach a goal, it could mean a lot to have that effort noticed and praised. You might say something like:

• It’s clear how hard you worked on that presentation, and it was so thought-provoking.
• I admire your commitment to your marathon training. It inspires me to work harder on my goals, too.
• You’ve grown so much as a person this year. It’s a joy to witness.

There are people in the world who make you feel good and inspire you just by being who they are. What makes them so special? They’d certainly love to hear about it. Try compliments like:

• Your dedication to your friends is admirable.
• Your kindness inspires me to look for more ways to help others.
• Your thoughtful perspective makes everyone around you feel encouraged and cared for.

Even when you really mean it, great job  and very nice can come off as overused or insincere. Elevate your compliments with these synonyms instead!

Unique talents or skills

If someone is really fun to be around or has an impressive sense of humor, singing ability, or perspective on things, that’s worth complimenting as well. Here are some examples:

• You tell the best jokes. Thank you for making all of us smile.
• I always look forward to hearing your point of view. It’s refreshing.
• Your organizational skills are second to none. It makes life easier for everyone around you.

How to compliment someone

1. be genuine..

If you want your compliments to do their job, you have to make sure they’re authentic and sincere. This means noticing specific things about the person you’re complimenting and making sure you communicate your compliments in a clear and thoughtful way. Here are some tips to do that:

• Make eye contact.
• Reference specific events or examples.
• Avoid filler words , like great and really .
• Include the reason why you appreciate their presence or actions.

2. Tailor your compliment to the person and situation.

The most authentic compliments are the ones that feel personal and sincere. Before you compliment someone, ask yourself:

• What would make this person feel seen?
• What specifically do I want them to take away from the compliment?

Framing compliments this way can help you get to the heart of what you really enjoy about someone. It also helps you avoid generic statements.

For example:  instead of saying, “That dress is so cute,” try something like, “You have such a great sense of style. I always look forward to seeing the outfits you put together!”

3. Focus on things that are under their control.

It’s a good idea to avoid compliments that focus on aspects of someone’s appearance or abilities that aren’t directly in their control. Why? Because those sorts of compliments can focus on outcomes rather than effort and put undue pressure on people.

Maybe there’s a friend in yoga class who consistently nails every pose. Rather than saying, “Wow, you’re so flexible,” opt for something like, “Your dedication to our yoga practice is really inspiring. I can tell you’re getting stronger!”

Whether or not someone is athletic, beautiful, or super smart isn’t necessarily in their control, but they are in control of the steps they take to feel stronger, healthier, or more successful, and they’ll appreciate that someone notices their effort.

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4. Be respectful.

Some compliments aren’t appropriate, even if you mean well. For example, it can be considered unprofessional and even inappropriate to comment on someone’s appearance in the workplace. Similarly, commenting on things like someone’s body size, how much money they have, or other details about their personal life can make things awkward in almost any setting.

Remember: the goal with a compliment is to praise someone while still respecting their personal boundaries and the etiquette of the setting.

5. Don’t make it about you.

When you give someone a compliment, try to avoid using “I” statements that shift the focus back to you. For example, don’t say something like, “You’re so great at X. I’ll never be able to do that.”

If you compliment someone this way, the exchange becomes an opportunity for them to reassure you or talk about your abilities, rather than a chance for them to feel good about something they do well. The person receiving the compliment should get to be the star of the show.

Unsure about making small talk with coworkers or acquaintances? These tips will help you prepare for light and easy conversations.

6. Choose the right words.

The language you use in a compliment matters. If you fall back on generic or overused adjectives, like good or nice , it can make your compliment seem less sincere. Instead, try to choose descriptive adjectives that are precise , engaging, and that communicate your true feelings. Consider the difference between these two examples:

• You did a great job!
• You put a lot of hard work into that performance, and it was exceptional. I’m so proud of what you just accomplished!

The first compliment is nice, but non-specific. The second example includes more detail, a stronger adjective, and uses more specific language. It seems tailored to the situation, and that helps it come across as being more sincere.

7. Look out for unique opportunities to offer compliments.

Make an effort to notice and compliment others more often. This can include praising the people you see every day, but also be on the lookout for ways to praise people who help you out at the store, take your order in a restaurant, or who you notice doing nice things out in the world.

Not only is it a way to spread positivity, but it’s also good practice. Noticing more and more opportunities to compliment others will help your compliments become more personalized, genuine, and treasured by those on the receiving end.

Get inspired for Women's Equality Day (and every day!) with these quotes that illuminate the women's rights movements.

Ways To Say

Synonym of the day

Compliment or Praise the Media, an Author, or an Editor

I recently had the good fortune of reading your article regarding investment strategies. It was well-written and contained sound, practical advice. In fact, I have already benefited from your discussion on risk versus return. You pointed out several things that I will remember for years to come. I look forward to reading your next informative work. Thank you.

Please accept our thanks and congratulations on the success of your recent series on young scholars in our community. We see so much of the negative side of life in the media that it is refreshing to have a positive, upbeat report on the good things that are happening. I think the report was a great motivator for many students who need a little extra push. Our schools are doing a good job with limited resources, and they appreciate all the help we can give them. Thanks again for such uplifting coverage.

I always enjoy your column in our local newsletter. You have a gift for discussing family interactions in truthful yet amusing ways. It seems I can always identify experiences in my own family with those you describe. Your articles help us realize that our problems are typical, and we can solve them in constructive ways.

Thank you and keep these good articles coming.

I have just finished reading the article you wrote on recycling published in the June issue of Springfield Journal. I want to tell you how much I appreciated your clearly written and thought-provoking article.

While much has been written on this topic, your article expresses both the positive and negative aspects of this important topic, without taking an emotional stance on either side of the issue.

Thank you for your thorough research and clear writing.

How to Write this Compliment Letter: Expert Tips and Guidelines

A complimentary letter shows support for the issue at hand and encourages more of the same. Your letter should be direct and sincere, without being self-serving.

• Tell the reader that you enjoyed or appreciated his or her work.
• State specifically what you liked about the reader's work.
• Close by thanking the writer for his or her work.

Write Your compliment in Minutes: Easy Step-by-Step Guide with Sample Sentences and Phrases

1 tell the reader that you enjoyed or appreciated his or her work., sample sentences for step 1.

• I read your recent article about unemployment in our community and sincerely appreciated its message.
• Your article on business expansion in our area was very enlightening.
• I just finished reading your book Doe's Ways and wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it.
• I compliment you on the way you handled that difficult interview with John Doe.
• Thank you for the update on white collar crime. It was a sobering report.
• I appreciate your covering the Doe merger in your recent telecasts.
• I commend you for your excellent report on the homeless in our city.

Key Phrases for Step 1

• add my praise to
• admired the way you dealt with
• appreciate your coverage
• are to be commended for
• commend you for
• congratulate you on
• excellent series of
• for the update on
• have long admired your
• how disturbed I was
• how much I enjoyed
• just finished reading
• read your recent
• sincerely appreciated the message
• such an outstanding
• want you to know
• was a first-rate
• was most enlightening

2 State specifically what you liked about the reader's work.

Sample sentences for step 2.

• The article clearly showed each side of the issue and raised many questions that most voters have not considered.
• The report was well documented, so no one can claim that it was just one person's opinion.
• The timing for the article was perfect, and your arguments were compelling.
• Your piece was very revealing. I had never heard the issue presented in that light.
• Your topics are always interesting and educational. We have especially enjoyed the nature programs. Our entire family sits down each Monday evening to watch them.

Key Phrases for Step 2

• clear, incisive analysis of
• clearly showed both sides
• complete and accurate
• easy to understand
• excellent background information
• expertly researched and written
• explained so clearly
• helped me to see more clearly
• intelligent and articulate
• most refreshing
• raised some important questions
• seeing different points of view
• seem to have a gift for
• such a clear depiction of
• such a concise explanation
• the skill with which you
• this vitally important topic
• was well documented
• was most thought-provoking
• will surely be of great value

3 Close by thanking the writer for his or her work.

Sample sentences for step 3.

• Thank you for making me aware of such an important issue.
• I appreciate your insights.
• Thank you for adding local interest stories to the evening news.
• I am grateful that we have such a strong voice in the media, someone who does not hesitate to speak her mind on the importance of the family.
• Reports like yours help support the efforts of small businesses like mine. Thank you.
• Thank you for your weekly column. I look forward to it every Sunday.
• You deserve thanks for your commitment to bringing the public such vital information.

Key Phrases for Step 3

• am grateful for
• best wishes for
• congratulations
• for a job well done
• for speaking your mind
• for having the courage
• for making me aware
• for your insights
• hope you will continue to
• how much I appreciate
• keep up the good work
• keeping us informed
• look forward to
• raising public awareness
• seeing more of your work
• thank you for
• your skill and effort
• your professional approach
• your further success

Recommended Letter-Writing Resources

Action Verbs for Resumes and Cover Letters

Business Letter Format Tips

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Blog Details

18 authentic phrases to use when you want to give praise to someone.

Compliments are a social currency.

We occasionally pass them round to win favor, and sometimes to show real, genuine appreciation of someone or something they have accomplished.

Receiving praise not only makes people feel better about themselves; it has almost just as much a positive impact on the mood of the compliment-giver .

Give happiness, get happiness.

Think about the times your mood was uplifted by a stray compliment from a stranger.

“I love that hair color on you!”

“That’s such a cool jacket!”

“You have the nicest smile!”

You walk away blushing, your hope in humanity restored.

We could all use a little more praise, both in the give and take, but the key is in getting it right.

Insincere or fake praise can do a lot more damage than good, so being aware of what you say and how you say it goes miles when it comes to leaving someone smiling.

Below are a sample of authentic phrases you could use for various situations.

Be sure to tailor them to your compliment recipient and make it as personal as possible – because that’s how you make your compliments really hit home!  

1) To your partner

“i feel like my best self around you. i don’t have to hide anything and i’ve never felt so at peace.”.

Letting someone know that they’re your safe space and that you feel so at ease in their presence can be so warming. 

Be cautious with this one though – whilst it can be wonderful to know how great you make someone feel, you’re largely focusing on your own emotions. 

How do you make your partner feel?

Do they benefit equally from the love that you give them?

“I’m so appreciative of how patient you are with me when I get anxious.”

If you’re of the anxious kind, it’s great to step back and let your partner know that you really notice them taking their time and being patient with you.

Acknowledging that you’re both learning more about the other is a big part of growing together .

One step further is acknowledging how you or they are actively trying to accommodate or help you, be it in anxiety or stress or something else.

Don’t let their efforts go unnoticed but be sure to communicate and voice your gratitude.

“I love how you did your hair today!”

This might seem out of place and cliché, but it honestly works for everyone.

I was blown away by my boyfriend noticing I had straightened my hair yesterday and saying it looked good. 

Not to think too little of men, but I didn’t really think that they usually noticed small details like that.

However, one small comment really made me stop and realize how much he does notice about me. 

And I loved it.

Additionally, complimenting men on their physical appearance can be challenging beyond the “you’re so hot”, but taking the time to praise or compliment a particular detail will leave him feeling cherished and seen. 

His fresh trim, the new shirt he’s wearing, his cologne.

Go for the little things and tell your partner that you not only notice, but you like.

2) To your friends

“i feel like you’ve really shaped my perspective on so many things. even if we don’t always see eye to eye, i’ve learned so much from you.”.

We sometimes go amiss when it comes to communicating how much we value our friends to them. 

This doesn’t receive as much focus as communicating your love for your partner.

But friends are just as important.

Telling them that you not only value them, but that they’ve actually helped you to evolve and learn as a person will leave you both feeling like you’re contributing to one another’s growth and development.

“I admire how much you stand up for what you believe in. You’ve really shown me what dedication means.”

Say your friend has a certain viewpoint or belief that they’re steadfast in endorsing.

Maybe you don’t agree with it.

Maybe the rest of the world doesn’t agree with it.

But if you notice that they stay true to their morals (knowing them really well) and don’t let societal pressure or fear lead them to lie or go silent when it comes to expressing their views, let them know.

It can be really difficult to stick to your guns and your principles in certain situations, so reminding a friend that you notice this determination and steadfastness will give them so much strength.

“I really like talking to you, you always cheer me up and you’ve been there no matter what. You’ve made me realize so many things about myself.”

My family isn’t so cohesive or present, so it’s to my friends I turn for support.

But I sometimes forget to remind them.

When I do, I get that warm and fuzzy feeling inside.

So if you also feel like your friends are there for you no matter what and have ferried you along in your journey to finding out more about yourself, tell them.

Trust me, they’ll appreciate it and it’s nice to feel like you’re all in the self-growth, self-discovery voyage together.

3) To your family

“I’ve learned so much of my own kindness from growing up, watching how you treat others.”

Sub in kindness with what you want, but parents or other caregivers will feel so very appreciated if, as an adult, you’re able to reflect and voice well they performed as a role model.

“I know it must’ve been hard looking after us on your own when we were teenagers but I’m so thankful for all you sacrificed.”

In the moment, teenagers can be very sullen and slightly horrendous.

If you’re able to look back at your own childhood/teenhood and recognize elements where your parents went above and beyond to help you, to nurture you, and to make you their priority, tell them.

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We often don’t realize the sacrifices that our parents make until much later, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to let them know we now understand what they did for us.

“I hope that one day I can do as great a job at parenting as you did.”

What better words could you want to hear as a parent?

No parent is perfect.

But if you can see that they did a fantastic job , even with a couple slip-ups, make them feel good about it.

Every parent is filled with a bit of doubt and worry when it comes to how they parented their kids, which this praise gives you the chance to wipe away.

4) To your kids

“wow that’s an incredible drawing. i love how you’ve blended the rainbow. what made you choose to do it that way”.

Compare the above to a quick glance, a nod of acknowledgement, and back to a screen.

Picking up on and pointing out minute details of things that your child makes or does will make them feel appreciated.

Extra points for asking them about their choices, which probes them into self-reflection and leaves them feeling like you really care.

“I’m so proud of you for finally getting into the school choir! I know how hard you’ve been practicing. You must be so proud of yourself too…all that hard work paid off!”

Yes, they did it, but the real success is the effort they’ve invested into accomplishing the goal.

The journey is what you need to praise just as much (if not much) than the outcome.

Double down and make the praise even more abundant if they’ve overcome failure a few times and faced rejections but still pulled through.

Praising the effort will instill more motivation to work harder and show them that you really believe in them.

“I saw you sharing your favorite toy with Max today when he was feeling sad. I know you really love that toy but I’m so glad that you were brave enough to trust Max with him. I think you really helped him out, don’t you?”

The key is in the details.

Here, you’re demonstrating not only your attention as a parent, but also picking up on good behavior and praising them for it.

They might be still unaware of the impact their actions can have.

But pointing out how they can directly influence and impact others in a positive manner will help your child to continue striving to help others. 

Open-ended questions laced into praise also allows room for self-reflection which can contribute to reflecting on our actions and understanding them better. 

5) To a colleague

“you aced that presentation. that was a tough crowd, but you didn’t even falter”.

Let them know that you noticed tension or other obstacles but also picked up on how they dealt with the situation.

They’ll leave glowing with pride and confidence, more than ready to tackle the next task.

“You honestly give the most thoughtful feedback. Your questions and insight have helped this team to grow so much.”

If someone is actively putting in effort to think about improvement strategies and takes everyone else’s work into account, make sure that you notice. 

Curiosity and a desire to help others should always be rewarded, especially when working as a team .

“You saved my skin today by covering for me. I know you didn’t have to, so I really appreciate it.”

If someone goes out of their way at work to do you a favor, don’t let it go unnoticed.

Colleagues aren’t really like friends or partners, and whilst you do build connections, compliments and praise can sometimes still be a little more transactional.

But that’s not to say you should skip over the favors that others do to make your life a little easier.

6) To a stranger

“I love your outfit! Everything goes together so well, it’s so stylish.”

If someone clearly has a unique and interesting fashion sense, compliment them!

I’m not talking nasty, Regina George backhanded compliments .

Even if you wouldn’t wear it yourself, appreciate how other people use clothes to express their individuality and let them know that you notice.

“I can see how hard you’ve worked for your figure!”

Take this with a grain of salt as I do not recommend complimenting someone on their weight loss, figure, or anything else they cannot change about themselves, ever.

Especially as someone who has recovered from an eating disorder. 

It’s a big no-go.

But the gym environment is different.

One of the compliments that has stood out in my mind is a group of girls watching me train whilst I was on holiday.

I felt a little awkward and embarrassed by their stares until one came up to me and said she was really impressed by my figure and my lifting.

For me, that was music to my ears.

Whilst I stress again that complimenting on elements of someone’s appearance they cannot change or weight loss is if anything detrimental, I do think that there is an area in the gym-world where letting someone know you can tell they work hard goes a long way.

“I loved her first novel. Have you read that too? You have such great taste in books!”

Not only great praise but a great pick-up line for when you spot a book-reader out in the wild.

Complimenting and praising someone on their choice of novel, or even song, or the cocktail they just ordered at the bar is a great way to show appreciation for the little interests that add up to make us individual.

To wrap it up…

A great way to spread love and kindness is through regular praise and compliments.

To do so, you do have to make them sincere and authentic and make sure they’re coming from a place of sincerity.

So no complimenting just to try to get people to like you.

Instead, work to genuinely pay attention to detail and compliment others on their choices or the effort they make.

This will make them feel far more seen and valued than a simple “well done you”.

Share in the positivity and spread it.

Why not try and start incorporating one extra authentic compliment a day, be it to a stranger or someone you see regularly…

You’ll be surprised at how quickly the world seems to take on a brighter hue.

Who’s your “Friends” alter-ego?

That’s it for the article, but before you leave…

Have you ever debated with your friends about which ‘Friends’ character you’re most like? Who out of Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe you really resonate with?

Well, now’s your chance to find out!

We’ve created a fun new quiz which matches you with your Friends alter-ego. Answer a few simple questions and we’ll match you with the character that truly matches your personality.

Ready to find out who you’d be hanging out with at Central Perk?

Take the quiz by clicking here.

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Celebrate success with appreciation for good work messages and quotes

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The importance of recognizing employees’ effort

3 tips for giving impactful recognition, appreciation for good work messages: 9 types with examples, celebrate excellent performance with employee appreciation messages.

Imagine completing a project and feeling proud of your hard work. 

You rallied the entire team to go the extra mile, reached big milestones, and surpassed your boss’s expectations . When someone sends you a message of appreciation, you feel even better about what you’ve accomplished — motivating you to go even further next time.

Regardless of your work history, you probably know the difference between a workplace that gives employees recognition and one that doesn’t. Words of appreciation make it easier to get through difficult days and measure your progress and success.

When you work tirelessly toward a goal and don’t receive recognition, it’s hard to feel a sense of belonging or know whether you’re succeeding in your role.

Although you can’t influence how others express gratitude toward you, you can change how you treat others. Giving appreciation for good work messages to your colleagues and managers is an excellent way to celebrate their effort and contribution to your team.

According to research from Deloitte, organizations that give their employees recognition see a 14% increase in productivity and performance . Offering appreciation and gratitude helps team members connect with the rest of the workplace, bringing a sense of community and a reason to engage. 

And when team members don’t feel like leaders or coworkers appreciate them, they could be more likely to quit. Over 50% of employees between 18–34 view changing jobs as beneficial to their career , and without proper recognition from one workplace, they might feel like they’re better off switching jobs .

Whether you’re a manager , team lead, or colleague , showing appreciation encourages people to stay and continue growing.

Although outside factors like verbal validation, positive messages, and bonuses are great motivators, they sometimes aren’t enough to retain top talent . According to researcher Rajesh Singh, intrinsic motivation plays a more significant role in motivating employees than extrinsic factors .

Intrinsic motivation comes from team members’ own self-confidence and drive rather than external validation. And although appreciation messages don’t fall under that umbrella, they can help people understand their value and build a foundation of self-respect .

These are all positive reasons for sending an appreciation message, but you can also do so to make someone feel good without the promise of anything in return. By showing gratitude, you lend a helping hand in shaping a positive company culture where employees feel happy to come to work each day. And sometimes, that’s enough.

Knowing what makes an appreciation message meaningful makes it easier to craft one. Here are three tips for using your writing skills to create a thoughtful recognition message:

• Add a personal touch: Personalized appreciation is more genuine than a straightforward “Thank you.” It shows the recipient that you genuinely recognize their effort and value the skills they bring to the team. Touch on some of the employee’s unique qualities so they feel like you appreciate them for who they are.
• Be specific: Everyone appreciates receiving gratitude for particular achievements. Highlight your recipient’s personal accomplishments on team projects and describe how they add to the company’s success.
• Show appreciation regularly: Sending someone an email once per year likely isn’t enough to motivate them consistently. Make sure to show everyone continuous appreciation so they know they’re more than just one project or milestone.

Like writing a holiday message or goodbye email , it’s not easy to put your thoughts and feelings into words in a sentence or two. Even if the recipient is a work friend or close colleague, it can be challenging to know how to praise someone professionally . 

Looking at examples can help you beat writer’s block and find the right words. If you’ve noticed a team member’s great work and want to show gratitude, use these appreciation messages for inspiration:

1. Recognition for top performance

Regardless of your position, having a top performer on your team makes a huge difference. They’re filled with brilliant ideas, excel in their work, and motivate the rest of the group . Use these prompts to show your top performers the recognition they deserve:

• “I wanted to thank you for your hard work and dedication to the team. Your leadership and ability to constantly push the bar motivates the entire department and doesn’t go unnoticed.”
• “I’m grateful to have you on our team. Your results in your first year are impressive, and I look forward to your continuous growth. You’re a true asset to the department.”
• “We’re constantly impressed by your performance. The way you handled the [project name] is commendable. Thank you for always going above and beyond to ensure our team succeeds in everything we do.”

2. Acknowledgment for obtaining specific goals

A company’s success lies in the hands of individual and collective accomplishments. And when someone goes above and beyond to ensure their team reaches specific targets, acknowledging them inspires everyone to do the same. Here are some goal-specific appreciation messages: 

• “Thank you, [employee’s name], for your help in the [project name]. We recognize the hard work it took to produce your numbers. As a result, we reached our quarterly target sooner than expected. Keep up the great work!”
• “I wanted to acknowledge your role in making [project name] such a success. I see everything you do and appreciate your tremendous work.”
• “I’m continuously impressed by your results. You play a crucial role in the department’s success, and with your help, we acquired the funding necessary to launch [initiative name].”

3. Attitudes and soft skills

Employees with positive attitudes and practical soft skills help boost morale and motivate the whole team. Use these prompts for inspiration when acknowledging an employee or coworker’s positive personality traits :

• “[Employee’s name], we’re so lucky to have you on our team. You bring everyone together with your teamwork abilities and positive attitude. Thank you for your excellent work and for being part of our team.”
• “Thank you for being such a great coworker. I appreciate that you’re always there to answer my questions and listen to my ideas.”
• “I want to thank you for all you do to keep our team together. Your positivity and problem-solving skills make such a difference in our fast-paced environment.”

4. Appreciation for team players

Teamwork isn’t always easy, so when employees go above and beyond to foster a positive collaborative environment , they deserve your congrats. Show your appreciation for a whole team or a single person with these thoughtful messages:

• “I want to show appreciation for you and everything you do to make our team successful. You always graciously help your team members and uplift everyone in the office.”
• “Thank you for being a fantastic collaborator. Having you on our team makes a huge difference, and we’re sure we wouldn’t have reached our success with [project name] without your help.”
• “It’s not always easy to lead a team with such different personalities. You make everyone feel valued for their work and help them reach their potential. Thank you for being an incredible team player and role model.”

5. Acknowledgment for a strong work ethic 

Strong work ethics aid team productivity and engagement . Use these employee recognition examples to celebrate productive, organized team members:

• “[Employee’s name], we can always count on you to do a great job in everything you do. Thank you for continuously raising the bar for yourself and giving your best daily.”
• “It’s rare to come by employees who challenge themselves at work. I appreciate your work ethic and ability to exceed expectations to aid the company’s success.”
• “Thank you for your outstanding performance. Your involvement in your team’s success is admirable, and you’re helping the organization reach new heights through your dedication.”

6. Valuing unique skill sets 

Employees with specialized training and unique skill sets are an asset to any team, especially when tricky roadblocks arise. Here are some words to say thank you and show appreciation for employees who are one of a kind:

• “You bring valuable insight to our team through your experience in [example of skill]. With your guidance and knowledge, we launched [initiative’s name], helping the company reach an entirely new market.”
• “I value your talent and view you as a true asset to our team. Your experience with [expertise] has helped bring your coworkers up to speed on the ever-changing digital landscape.”
• “I would like to recognize your ability to approach problems while thinking outside of the box. You’re helping to keep our brand identity new and exciting, and I know we’ll be able to bring more success to [company’s name] with your help.”
• “Your role in developing the [project name] and teaching your colleagues new skills is commendable. Your unique perspective brings so much value to our team, and we are thrilled to have such a hardworking teammate.”

7. Noteworthy creativity 

Creative employees bring a fresh perspective to problem-solving strategies and help all types of innovation thrive. Try these two approaches when showing your appreciation for your team’s creative skills:

• “I appreciate the fresh perspective and creativity you bring to our team. Your ideas help [company name] stay ahead of trends and remain a leader in innovation.”
• “We thank you for your fantastic job on the [project name]. Your creativity has made such an enormous impact on [company name]’s visual identity. We believe the new branding and marketing materials you’ve developed will give us an edge over our competitors.”

8. Celebrating milestones 

All employees count their work anniversaries, and so should you. Use these examples to congratulate employees accordingly:

• “I’m so grateful for having you on our team for the past [number] years.”
• “We’re happy to celebrate your [number]-year anniversary with you. Thank you for being a part of the company since day one and for your tremendous effort. We’re sure we wouldn’t have accomplished such great heights without you on our team.”
• “Congratulations on achieving your [number]-year work anniversary. We appreciate your loyalty to the company and feel grateful to have top talent like yourself join our ever-growing team. We’re confident that without your hard work, the [department’s name] wouldn’t be such a success. We’re looking forward to celebrating more years to come!”

9. Appreciation quotes for employees

Employee appreciation quotes are more straightforward than personalized messages. Say thank you to a whole group with teamwork appreciation quotes to encourage team building or celebrate an exemplary individual for their hard work.

Add these short quotes to the bottom of an email or send them as a Slack message to your team:

• “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” — Michael Jordan
• “No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it.” — Halford E. Luccock
• “Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life.” — Amy Poehler

The best appreciation for good work messages are personal and come from the heart. Although these letters have numerous organizational benefits, such as enhancing employee engagement and retention, what truly makes them special is how they make others feel.

High-quality and loyal employees are hard to come by, so send appreciation messages for good work and positive feedback when you spot a job well done.

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

Use thoughtful work anniversary messages to wish your coworkers well

Know your speed: is a fast-paced environment right for you, learn to deal with a passive-aggressive boss like a pro, 6 types of work styles and how to find yours, leverage love languages at work to improve your office culture, how to give kudos at work. try these 5 examples to show appreciation, why building great work relationships is more than just getting along, here’s what to look for in a work-from-home policy, how remote work will redefine future careers, according to gen z, don’t hate, appreciate a look at the power of gratitude at work, 17 positive feedback examples to develop a winning team, ’tis the season: 15 holiday messages to send to employees, boost retention and energy with 26 unique employee appreciation ideas, spread the gratitude: how to thank your team with a letter, show gratitude with “thank you for your leadership and vision” message examples, learn how to appreciate a team with these tips, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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100 Words of Encouragement for Any Situation

A little bit of positivity goes a long way

d3sign/Moment/Getty

How to Provide Words of Encouragement

100 words of encouragement to use, parting words.

A few words of encouragement can often go a long way toward cheering someone on—in good times and bad. Encouraging them can be a powerful way to show them you care about them and support them.

Offering positive support through words of encouragement strengthens emotional bonds and helps nurture relationships, says Kristin Wilson , MA, LPC, CCTP, RYT, Chief Experience Officer at Newport Healthcare.

Encouragement offers motivation, boosts confidence, creates a sense of security, and reinforces a person’s worth and capabilities.

We know that sometimes, the right words can be hard to find. You want to show someone your support but you feel awkward , don't want to sound disingenuous, and get stuck on what to say. 

Don’t worry, we’ve got you! In this article, we suggest some words of encouragement you can use to support a friend, partner, child, or coworker.

At a Glance

It’s important to cheer on your loved ones. Showing them your support and offering them words of encouragement can motivate them to do better and meet their goals. Make it a point to compliment their efforts, regardless of the outcome.

Go, get your cheer on!

These are some tips that can help you find the right words to encourage someone:

• Listen actively: Listen actively and pay attention to what the person is saying. Understand their concerns and challenges, so you can provide encouragement that specifically addresses their needs.
• Acknowledge their efforts: Recognize the effort someone is putting into a task or goal, regardless of the outcome. Appreciate how hard they’ve worked on something.
• Show them you see them: Instead of giving the person generic praise, give them a specific compliment based on their abilities, strengths, or potential. Make them feel like you see them.
• Be genuine: Authenticity matters. When you encourage someone or praise their efforts, say something you really mean, instead of saying something for the sake of it.
• Focus on the positive: Instead of focusing on something that’s gone wrong, focus on the bright side and encourage them to stay positive.
• Offer help: If you can, offer practical help or assistance. Sometimes, just knowing that you’re there for them can be incredibly reassuring.
• Be patient: If the person reacts negatively to your words of encouragement or rejects them, try to be understanding, says Wilson. “Avoid taking it personally or becoming defensive . Be open to discussing their concerns or reasons for the negative reaction and express your willingness to support them in a way that meets their needs.”

These are some phrases you can use to encourage your friends, children, coworkers, or partners. Notice how simple and straightforward many of them are. You don't have to be a poet or a motivational speaker to have an impact.

We may not admit it, but we usually like to be encouraged and feel reassured that someone has our back. It's easier to be there for someone—even in small ways—than you might think.

For a Coworker

If you're someone who feels awkward about outward encouragement, know that you're not alone! But think about times you have been encouraged or complimented about your work. It felt pretty good, right?

Here are some helpful words of encouragement for a coworker, whether you're congratulating someone on a job well done or trying to get the best out of your team:

• Great work!
• Your hard work is paying off.
• The passion you bring to your work is inspiring.
• You’re a true team player.
• Thank you for going above and beyond on this project.
• The way you handled that task was impressive.
• Your contributions to the team have been really helpful.
• Your commitment to this project is commendable.
• Your knowledge and expertise in this area have been invaluable.
• Your ideas are refreshing, keep them coming!
• Your work is making a huge impact.
• You have a strong work ethic that I really admire.
• Your can-do approach is really motivating the rest of the team.
• Your positivity and optimism are contagious.
• Your attention to detail is flawless, keep it up!
• Your leadership inspires confidence.
• We're lucky to have you on board.
• I trust your ability to handle this project.
• I have confidence in your decision-making skills.
• I’m seeing a significant improvement in your performance.
• Thanks for working on the feedback I shared, I can see the difference.
• Your professional and personal growth have been significant.
• Don’t be discouraged by setbacks, you can do this!
• Even though the deal fell through, it was not for lack of your effort.
• Your calm and collected approach was really helpful during the crisis.

This kind of encouragement won't just make someone feel better, it can help motivate them too. Research shows that encouraging employees improves their commitment to their job.

For a Friend

These are some words of encouragement for a friend. You know them best, so feel free to improvise based on the situation or the kind of encouragement you know they have responded to in the past.

• Good luck! You’re going to do great.
• Break a leg! Go out there and wow them.
• You killed it! That was amazing.
• Congratulations, I’m so happy for you!
• You had the courage to follow your dreams.
• You stuck to your guns, good for you!
• One step at a time, you’re almost there!
• Don’t worry, you can do this!
• Keep at it, you’ve got this!
• I have no doubt that you’ll be great at this.
• This is tough, but you’re definitely tougher.
• It sucks that you have to go through this, but I know you can do it.
• Things will get better, hang in there!
• Whatever the universe has in store for you is going to be amazing.
• Trust the process, it’ll work out.
• Good vibes coming your way.
• Sending you big hugs and happy thoughts.
• You’re in my thoughts today.
• I’m here for you no matter what.
• Just pick up the phone if you need me.
• Your friendship is important to me.
• You have a heart of gold.
• You’re such a pure soul.
• You make the world a better place.

For a Partner

A romantic partner is usually one of the most important people in our lives, if not the most important. A big part of maintaining a healthy long-term relationship is letting your partner know you're there for them, whatever they might be going through. If your partner's love language is words of affirmation, this kind of verbal reinforcement can be even more critical.

These are some words of encouragement for a partner :

• I believe in you, you’ve got this!
• You're not alone, we're in this together.
• I’m with you every step of the way.
• I support you no matter what.
• Together, we can do anything.
• I'm grateful to have you by my side.
• I’m so lucky to have you in my life.
• I know I can always count on you.
• You’ve never let me down.
• You’re my rock, and I appreciate your support.
• Thanks for everything you do for me.
• Thank you for sharing that with me.
• You inspire me to be a better person.
• You make my life better in so many ways.
• Your kindness makes the world a better place.
• Your thoughtfulness never fails to amaze me.
• You have such a big heart.
• You’re beautiful inside and out.
• You brighten up my days.
• You make me so happy.
• You make me look forward to each day.
• You’re so special to me.
• You’re such a good listener.
• You make me feel seen and supported.
• I have so much to learn from you.

For a Child

The great thing about giving encouragement to kids is you don't have to worry about the kind of sheepish self-conscious reactions you may get from an adult. Children are more earnest, more literal, and won't have nearly as many complicated feelings about receiving words of encouragement. These are some words of encouragement for a child:

• There you go!
• You’re doing great.
• Keep up the good work.
• You’re such a smart cookie.
• You’re so brave.
• I’m so proud of you.
• You’re awesome, you can do this!
• Good luck today!
• Be good today.
• Make me proud.
• I know you’ll do the right thing.
• Try, try, try!
• You can do anything if you put your mind to it.
• You can be anything you want to be.
• The sky's the limit.
• I love you no matter what.
• It didn’t go well, but you learnt something important today.
• Mistakes are part of the learning process. Don’t beat yourself up.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
• Tomorrow will be a better day.
• Hang in there!
• Don’t give up, you can do this.
• Do your best, leave the rest.

Research shows that encouraging students improves their academic performance and self-efficacy .

These words and phrases can help you encourage your loved ones through the ups and downs of life. You can use these phrases, or find your own. Either way, they’ll appreciate it if you genuinely mean it. Your support and understanding will probably mean more to them than you know.

Zhao X, Yang YC, Han G, Zhang Q. The impact of positive verbal rewards on organizational citizenship behavior-the mediating role of psychological ownership and affective commitment . Front Psychol . 2022 Apr 28;13:864078. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.864078

Gong Z, Jiao X, Xia X, Yu H, Lv C. The relationship between academic encouragement and academic self-efficacy: a moderated mediation model . Front Psychol . 2022 Jul 7;13:644243. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.644243

By Sanjana Gupta Sanjana is a health writer and editor. Her work spans various health-related topics, including mental health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

The Superpower of Praising Others

Published: november 10, 2016.

How does it feel when someone praises your accomplishments? Do you suddenly feel inspired, sharp and ready to take on new challenges? Science shows that there are many psychological effects of praise. Used correctly, praise can boost self-esteem, increase performance and supercharge productivity. Used incorrectly or not at all, it can tear down and render the most high-powered team impotent.

So, why do so many managers have a hard time mastering one of the most essential responsibilities of leadership?

Many managers are fixers – hardwired to solve problems. Once solved, they are on to the next problem, often speeding past the chance to praise those who labored toward victory. Unsurprisingly, if you look at nearly any top-10 list of reasons your top talent leaves, it includes variations of not feeling valued, poor communication, lack of recognition or lack of trust or autonomy.

The Chemistry of Praise

Mark Twain famously said, “I can live for two months on a good compliment.”

Everyone, including spouses, extended family, colleagues, customers, and even your boss, loves to get sincere recognition and praise for a job well done. When we hear something we like, dopamine is released in our brains — the chemical associated with feelings of joy, pride, satisfaction and well-being. When you praise someone sincerely, it leads to a physiological desire to recreate that feeling. In the simplest terms, that is why praising someone cements good behavior and work habits. A side benefit is that, when you learn to enjoy praising others, you experience that same chemical reward. By doing something good for someone else, you also feel good. Sincere praise also helps you develop good work relationships with colleagues. Consistent with the law of reciprocity , others are often willing to return that feeling of goodwill by lending a hand or sharing useful information.

Now that we understand the problem and the benefit, what are some practical steps to enhance the skill of praising others?

1 — Give praise often.

The best way to avoid feeling uncomfortable praising someone is to do it until it feels natural. The aim is to build a healthy habit of praise. Regardless of personality type, you can learn to observe those around you and actively look for praise-worthy things.

2 — Give praise immediately.

It is important to praise others as they earn it. Resist the urge to wait until the “time is right.” The moment of achievement is always the right time, because it helps the recipient quickly assess the things that are important to you. Immediate praise also feels most authentic.

3 — Praise publicly. Correct privately.

If you are not comfortable receiving praise publicly, your natural inclination may be to reserve praise for private settings or one-on-one. But, public praise is most often most impactful.

If you are in a meeting, praise the person while others are present. If you are interacting through email, copy relevant peers and superiors when you send a praise email.

4 — Be sincere.

Anyone who has a seen a show like American Idol understands the weight of a compliment from Simon Cowell versus that of Paula Abdul.

Heaping praise on the mundane or manufacturing praise can be counterproductive. It means more to the recipient when they recognize it as praiseworthy. Learn to watch for key moments. Make a note. Then, look for an opportunity to express it.

5 — Be specific.

Not all compliments are created equal. Saying “Nice job!” or “Well done!” is better than no praise at all. But, being specific adds impact. For instance, “Wow. Your writing in that report was great. You have such a way with words. I could learn so much from you.”

6 — Check your but.

Have you ever been the recipient of a message along the lines of, “Thank you for responding so quickly, but…”

If you have ever studied business writing, you likely learned the sandwich method for delivering bad news — Good or Neutral News / Bad News / Good or Neutral News. Many managers misapply this method to delivering praise and critique to others.

Praise should not be the buffer to ease a request for more work or to soften a critique. Let your praise stand alone. When praise is followed by criticism, it nullifies the previously mentioned dopamine pleasure response and counteracts your intended outcome.

7 — Praise through action.

Did a subordinate demonstrate the ability to powerfully communicate? Trust them to represent you at an upcoming meeting. Did they show above-and-beyond attention to detail? Give them the opportunity to lead a key project. Words plus action magnify the impact.

8 — Spread your praise.

Your highest-performing team members are likely oft-praised. (Perhaps that is why they are your highest performing.) Learn to look for praiseworthy moments among those who receive less recognition. That praise may be the difference between them flourishing or floundering.

9 — Praise those who you don’t naturally get along with.

A tenuous relationship can wreak havoc when a project overlaps with someone you don’t naturally get along with. Praise can go a long way. Your responsibility is to train yourself to look for the good in others despite your underlying bias.

10 — Personalize your process.

Find what works for you. I keep a stack of thank you notes and envelopes on my desk where I see them every day. They serve as a reminder to watch for praiseworthy moments.

If someone is outside of my normal circle and I know I won’t see them soon, I write a handwritten note and drop it in the mail for immediacy. Sometimes I see the cards and decide instead to send an email and copy the person’s supervisor(s). Sometimes I see the cards during my morning meetings and remember that I observed a member of my team who was deserving of praise and I need to verbalize that thought.

Find something that suits your style and personality.

Take a moment to consider how these tips may apply to other relationships like friends and family.

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Strength and Honor: Essential Team Values (Part 1)

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Production or People: What Should Pastors Prioritize?

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100 compliments ready to deliver right this minute

Tags Living Happier Kindness

We all know how great it is to receive a compliment. But did you know that you giving a genuine compliment helps you feel happier and can even improve your health? Research has shown that when we do something kind, our brains release oxytocin, the "hug hormone" that makes us feel really good. And giving someone a genuine compliment is one of the easiest ways to practice kindness!

So here's a hundred ready-made compliments to try out yourself:

• You're an awesome friend.
• You're a gift to those around you.
• You're a smart cookie.
• You are awesome!
• You have impeccable manners.
• I like your style.
• You have the best laugh.
• I appreciate you.
• You are the most perfect you there is.
• You are enough.
• You're strong.
• Your perspective is refreshing.
• I'm grateful to know you.
• You light up the room.
• You deserve a hug right now.
• You should be proud of yourself.
• You're more helpful than you realize.
• You have a great sense of humor.
• You've got an awesome sense of humor!
• You are really courageous.
• Your kindness is a balm to all who encounter it.
• You're all that and a super-size bag of chips.
• On a scale from 1 to 10, you're an 11.
• You are strong.
• You're even more beautiful on the inside than you are on the outside.
• You have the courage of your convictions.
• I'm inspired by you.
• You're like a ray of sunshine on a really dreary day.
• You are making a difference.
• Thank you for being there for me.
• You bring out the best in other people.

If you're reading this blog post, you're someone with a kind heart. So we thought you'd enjoy this short video about how to blast your stress with kindness (especially on those rough days).

• Your ability to recall random factoids at just the right time is impressive.
• You're a great listener.
• How is it that you always look great, even in sweatpants?
• Everything would be better if more people were like you!
• I bet you sweat glitter.
• You were cool way before hipsters were cool.
• That color is perfect on you.
• Hanging out with you is always a blast.
• You always know -- and say -- exactly what I need to hear when I need to hear it.
• You help me feel more joy in life.
• You may dance like no one's watching, but everyone's watching because you're an amazing dancer!
• Being around you makes everything better!
• When you say, "I meant to do that," I totally believe you.
• When you're not afraid to be yourself is when you're most incredible.
• Colors seem brighter when you're around.
• You're more fun than a ball pit filled with candy. (And seriously, what could be more fun than that?)
• That thing you don't like about yourself is what makes you so interesting.
• You're wonderful.
• You have cute elbows. For reals!
• Jokes are funnier when you tell them.
• You're better than a triple-scoop ice cream cone. With sprinkles.
• When I'm down you always say something encouraging to help me feel better.
• You are really kind to people around you.
• You're one of a kind!
• You help me be the best version of myself.
• If you were a box of crayons, you'd be the giant name-brand one with the built-in sharpener.
• You should be thanked more often. So thank you!!
• Our community is better because you're in it.
• Someone is getting through something hard right now because you've got their back. 
• You have the best ideas.
• You always find something special in the most ordinary things.
• Everyone gets knocked down sometimes, but you always get back up and keep going.
• You're a candle in the darkness.
• You're a great example to others.
• Being around you is like being on a happy little vacation.
• You always know just what to say.
• You're always learning new things and trying to better yourself, which is awesome.
• If someone based an Internet meme on you, it would have impeccable grammar.
• You could survive a Zombie apocalypse.
• You're more fun than bubble wrap.
• When you make a mistake, you try to fix it.
• Who raised you? They deserve a medal for a job well done.
• You're great at figuring stuff out.
• Your voice is magnificent.
• The people you love are lucky to have you in their lives.
• You're like a breath of fresh air.
• You make my insides jump around in the best way.
• You're so thoughtful.
• Your creative potential seems limitless.
• Your name suits you to a T.
• Your quirks are so you -- and I love that.
• When you say you will do something, I trust you.
• Somehow you make time stop and fly at the same time.
• When you make up your mind about something, nothing stands in your way.
• You seem to really know who you are.
• Any team would be lucky to have you on it.
• In high school I bet you were voted "most likely to keep being awesome."
• I bet you do the crossword puzzle in ink.
• Babies and small animals probably love you.
• If you were a scented candle they'd call it Perfectly Imperfect (and it would smell like summer).
• There's ordinary, and then there's you.
• You're someone's reason to smile.
• You're even better than a unicorn, because you're real.
• How do you keep being so funny and making everyone laugh?
• You have a good head on your shoulders.
• Has anyone ever told you that you have great posture?
• The way you treasure your loved ones is incredible.
• You're really something special.
• Thank you for being you.

Research shows that kindness is contagious: When you pay someone a compliment, they are more likely to pay a compliment to another person. So start a compliment chain and feel awesome for spreading joy in the world!

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How to Praise Someone Professionally

63+ examples of how to praise someone professionally.

Employees that feel valued are going to be more productive, have more trust in their management and are less likely to leave the company.

So how do you praise someone professionally and build a positive and productive work environment?

How To Praise Someone Professionally

It shouldn’t be hard, but both giving and accepting a compliment can be quite the challenge. This is as true in the office as it is in your personal life. The key is to be truthful, specific and to back up your words with action.

• Be genuine - An employee or coworker is going to see through a fake compliment. Be honest, or your praise might backfire, hurting your credibility.
• Don’t exaggerate - Overselling your praise is also a turnoff. Over time, employees won’t feel like you’re being truthful or genuine.
• Be specific * - A general “Great job!” to a coworker or employee isn’t going to resonate. Tell them exactly what they did to earn your praise.
• Make it personal - One compliment to a large group of people is meaningless. Single coworkers (or a small team/division) out for their specific achievements.
• Make it timely - Giving a compliment for something that happened months ago is going to miss the point. Praise needs to be given for a recent work accomplishment to feel genuine.
• Back it up - A compliment is going to hit pretty flat if it doesn’t result in an improvement to their situation.
• Mix it up - Again, praise is good, but mix it up with other incentives to show your appreciation. Food, casual dress day, extra time off, a social media shout-out, gift cards, etc. Think of something—anything—to add to the mix.

Here's a quick video that shows how you can turn your frequently-typed phrases into snippets.

Check out our Common Work Emails page for more templates you can use today!

40 Ways To Say “Good Job”

How do you hit the sweet spot of a genuine professional compliment that doesn’t sound stiff or fake? Starting with some of these phrases is an excellent first step.

20 Genuine Compliments for Coworkers

Don’t want to sort through the above list? No worries. Jump to one of the categories below and choose from one of these 20 genuine compliments for coworkers.

Compliments About Skills

Compliments on enthusiasm, compliments about hard work, compliments about being a team player, three sample compliment letters to praise professionally.

Finally, it’s time to put it all together. Whether you’re a manager or team leader praising an employee or simply want to compliment a colleague, these three sample compliment letters will show you how to sincerely and professionally compliment someone.

We’ve used some of the phrases above as a first step and then added a detailed explanation of what the employee did and why it was so impressive.

In these letters, we tried to sound as sincere and natural as possible. We specified a reason for the praise and expressed a wish to continue working with the employee.

Sample Compliment Letter From an Executive to a Sales Manager

Dear {formtext: name=first name; cols=8},

I want to personally congratulate you on a job well done for the past six months. Since your last promotion, you’ve surpassed my expectations and then some.

I was impressed by your approach to some of our difficult clients. Your ability to foresee their needs has led to a record in sales in your team.

Your hard work has truly paid off, and we’re thrilled to have you at the helm of our newest sales division. As a token of our appreciation, we would like to offer you a small bonus.

We hope you’ll feel how much we appreciate your work and we’re excited to see what the next six months (and beyond) have in store!

Best, Tiffany

Sample Compliment Letter From a Team Leader to an Engineer

I’m reaching out to thank you for your great performance as part of our research and development team.

Now that the project has come to a close, It is clear that it wouldn’t have turned out the same without your insight and creativity. The ideas you brought to the table changed the course of our project for the better.

Furthermore, while I know things have been hectic, you stayed calm, collected, and never wavered. I appreciated how you made it easy for us to come together as a team. Especially as you were so flexible in regards to changing deadlines and team members’ changing schedules.

To show the company’s appreciation, I’ve asked to give you a shout-out on our Twitter and Facebook pages and congratulate you on a job well done.

It was a joy being your team lead and I look forward to collaborating with you again.

Thank you, Sharon

Sample Compliment Letter to a Designer From a Colleague

I wanted to personally welcome you to ACME. It’s been a wonderful few months since you joined our art team and I’ve been in awe of your work ethics.

You’ve had a great perspective on our latest designs and I’ve been impressed by the unique perspective you bring to every project.

Can I pick your brain about how you developed the art concept for the client in the lat project? Your designs were incredible and the client clearly loved them.

I look forward to continuing working with you and learning from your experience.

Best, Mario

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How to Praise Someone Professionally: A Guide for Success

Understanding the Importance of Professional Praise

In today's fast-paced and competitive work environment, it's crucial to create a positive and supportive atmosphere. Professional praise plays a key role in achieving this by boosting employee morale and motivation. When individuals feel valued and appreciated for their contributions, they are more likely to feel engaged and enthusiastic about their work.

Moreover, studies have shown that praise can significantly impact productivity. When employees receive regular recognition and encouragement, they are more inclined to go the extra mile and strive for excellence. By acknowledging their efforts, you not only inspire them to continue working hard but also reinforce positive behaviors and habits that drive success.

The Impact of Praise on Workplace Morale

Positive reinforcement and praise have been proven to enhance overall workplace morale. When employees feel acknowledged and appreciated, they develop a sense of belonging and loyalty, fostering a positive work culture. This, in turn, improves teamwork, collaboration, and cooperation among colleagues, leading to increased employee satisfaction and overall job satisfaction.

Furthermore, a work environment that values and recognizes achievements promotes a sense of healthy competition. Employees are motivated to excel and innovate, knowing that their accomplishments will be acknowledged and celebrated. As a result, productivity and performance levels soar, benefiting both individuals and the organization as a whole.

Boosting Productivity Through Positive Reinforcement

While constructive criticism has its place , it's equally important to provide positive reinforcement to cultivate a productive work environment. When individuals are praised for their efforts, they become more motivated to continue performing at a high level. Praise acts as a powerful catalyst for continued growth and development, encouraging individuals to push their boundaries and reach new heights of achievement.

Additionally, positive reinforcement helps to create a culture of learning and improvement. Rather than focusing solely on mistakes, praise encourages employees to embrace challenges and learn from their successes. By recognizing and celebrating achievements, you foster a growth mindset that drives innovation and excellence throughout the organization.

Furthermore, professional praise not only benefits the individual receiving it but also has a ripple effect on the entire team. When one person is recognized for their accomplishments, it sets a positive example for others to follow. This creates a supportive and collaborative atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to strive for greatness.

Another important aspect of professional praise is its ability to foster a sense of job satisfaction and fulfillment. When employees feel appreciated for their hard work, they are more likely to find meaning and purpose in their roles. This sense of fulfillment translates into higher levels of engagement and commitment, leading to increased productivity and overall organizational success.

The Art of Giving Professional Praise

Now that we understand why professional praise is important, let's explore the art of giving praise effectively . It's not simply about uttering a few words—it's about choosing the right words and delivering them with authenticity and sincerity.

Choosing the Right Words

When giving professional praise, it's crucial to be specific and genuine. Rather than resorting to generic phrases, take a moment to reflect on the individual's achievements and highlight specific attributes or actions that deserve recognition. For example, instead of saying, "Good job," you could say, "I was impressed with how well you handled that challenging project. Your attention to detail and problem-solving skills were commendable."

By being specific, you demonstrate that you have truly noticed and appreciated the person's unique contributions. This not only boosts their self-esteem but also encourages them to continue excelling in their work.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the impact of your words. Positive and uplifting language can have a profound effect on an individual's motivation and overall well-being. By choosing words that convey genuine appreciation and admiration, you create an atmosphere of positivity and encouragement within the workplace.

Timing Your Praise Effectively

Timing is everything when it comes to giving professional praise. While it's important to recognize achievements in a timely manner, it's equally important not to rush the process. Allow individuals the opportunity to fully complete their tasks or projects before providing praise, as this ensures that their efforts are adequately recognized.

Moreover, consider the individual's personality and preferences when delivering praise. While some individuals thrive on public recognition, others may prefer private acknowledgement. By tailoring your approach to suit the person's preferences, you create an environment that makes everyone feel comfortable and valued.

Additionally, it is essential to remember that praise should not be limited to major accomplishments or milestones. Recognizing small victories and incremental progress can be just as impactful. By acknowledging the effort and dedication individuals put into their work, you foster a culture of continuous improvement and growth.

In conclusion, the art of giving professional praise goes beyond mere words. It requires thoughtfulness, sincerity, and a genuine appreciation for the contributions of others. By choosing the right words and timing your praise effectively, you create an environment that fosters motivation, engagement, and a sense of fulfillment among your colleagues and team members.

Different Types of Professional Praise

Professional praise comes in various forms, all of which can have a positive impact on individuals and the overall work environment. Let's explore two primary types of praise: public recognition and private acknowledgement.

Public recognition is a powerful tool for boosting morale and promoting a positive work culture . By publicly acknowledging someone's achievements, you not only celebrate their accomplishments but also inspire others to strive for excellence. Public recognition can take the form of team meetings, email announcements, or company-wide newsletters, depending on the size of your organization.

Imagine a scenario where a team member, let's call her Sarah, has successfully completed a challenging project ahead of schedule. During a team meeting, the team leader takes a moment to recognize Sarah's exceptional efforts. The leader highlights Sarah's dedication, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, emphasizing how her contributions have positively impacted the project's success. This public recognition not only boosts Sarah's confidence but also motivates other team members to go above and beyond in their own work.

However, it's important to ensure that public recognition is appropriate for the situation and the individual involved. Some individuals may feel uncomfortable with public praise, so always be mindful of their preferences and comfort levels. For example, if you notice that a team member, let's call him Alex, tends to be more reserved and prefers a low-key approach, you can still acknowledge his achievements in a more discreet manner. A personalized email or a one-on-one conversation can go a long way in making Alex feel appreciated without putting him in an uncomfortable spotlight.

On the other hand, private acknowledgement is equally important in fostering a positive work environment. Taking the time to have a one-on-one conversation with an individual allows you to provide personalized and meaningful praise. This can greatly impact an individual's self-esteem, motivation, and job satisfaction.

Imagine another scenario where a team member, let's call him John, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and has been instrumental in driving the team's success. In a private conversation, the team leader sits down with John and expresses their genuine appreciation and gratitude for his contributions. The leader highlights specific instances where John's leadership has made a significant impact and commends his ability to inspire and motivate the team. This private acknowledgement not only boosts John's confidence but also strengthens the professional relationship between him and the team leader.

During a private conversation, be specific about the person's achievements and the impact they have had. Express your genuine appreciation and gratitude, and encourage open dialogue to further strengthen the professional relationship. By providing private acknowledgement, you create a safe space for individuals to share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Professional Praise

While professional praise is essential, it's important to be aware of common pitfalls that can undermine its effectiveness. Let's explore two common pitfalls: overpraising and ensuring your praise is genuine and specific.

Overpraising and Its Consequences

While it's important to celebrate achievements, overpraising can have detrimental effects. When praise becomes excessive or insincere, it loses its impact and becomes meaningless. It can give the impression that everyone is doing exceptionally well, regardless of their actual performance, leading to complacency and a decline in overall productivity.

Instead of overpraising, strive to strike a balance. Recognize and acknowledge achievements when they truly warrant praise, while also offering constructive feedback when necessary.

Ensuring Your Praise is Genuine and Specific

Genuine and specific praise is far more effective than generic statements. It shows that you have taken the time to observe and appreciate an individual's unique contributions. Avoid using empty compliments or praise that lacks substance, as it can come across as disingenuous and insincere.

When providing praise, focus on the specific actions or attributes that stand out. This not only reinforces positive behavior but also encourages ongoing growth and development.

Implementing a Culture of Praise in the Workplace

Creating a culture of praise requires commitment and consistency. Let's explore two ways you can implement this culture: encouraging peer-to-peer recognition and leadership's role in fostering a positive environment.

Encouraging Peer-to-Peer Recognition

Praise shouldn't be solely top-down; it should also flow horizontally among colleagues. Encourage employees to recognize and appreciate each other's efforts through simple gestures like thank-you notes or informal team shout-outs. This not only fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork but also promotes a positive work culture where everyone feels valued.

Leadership's Role in Fostering a Positive Environment

Leaders have a crucial role in creating a workplace culture that values and promotes professional praise. Set the example by regularly acknowledging and recognizing the achievements of your team members. This sends a powerful message that praise is not only acceptable but also expected within the organization.

Moreover, provide training and resources to help managers and leaders effectively give and receive praise. By equipping them with the necessary skills, you empower them to create an environment that fosters growth, innovation, and success.

By understanding the importance of professional praise, mastering the art of giving praise effectively, and implementing a culture of praise in the workplace, you can transform your organization into a thriving hub of productivity and success. So go ahead, spread the positivity, and reap the benefits!

At Candor, we're dedicated to helping teams like yours foster a culture where praise is woven into the very fabric of your work environment. By signing up for free, you can start implementing day-to-day exercises that encourage a culture of recognition, belonging, and joy in the workplace. Join the ranks of legendary teams who understand that a thriving culture is the cornerstone of success and happiness at work. Sign up for Free today and take the first step towards transforming your team's culture into one where every member feels valued and work feels like play.

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