How to Accept a Compliment or Praise
November 1, 2006 by Mary Jo Manzanares
I’ve written a lot lately about how important it is for us to compliment, praise, and thank others.
Equally important, however, is learning how to graciously accept compliments, praise and thanks from others. All to often, we tend to brush aside the kind words of others, either because we are embarrassed, don’t feel worthy, or simply don’t know how to handle it.
The worst way to handle compliments, is to brush it aside with a casual “it’s nothing” or “oh, I don’t really deserve it.” Those words denigrate the belief and esteem of the person extending the compliment.
We should always honor the opinions of others, and when we received compliments, respond in a way that shows we appreciate the kindness and thoughts that went into it.
The easiest way to respond to a compliment is with a simple thank you and a smile. If the situation requires it, a few additional words may be added.
Here are a few sample responses to a compliment or praise.
Thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you, I had a lot of help from others in reaching this milestone.
Thank you, I’m honored by your words.
Thank you, your words mean a lot to me.
Thank you, that’s very kind.
Try out a few of these responses until you find one that you can make your own. Then practice it until it is second nature.
I found this article very useful. Someone raised my head in the sky this morning and I just didn’t know how to respond. Thanks.
Keny, I’m glad the info was of use to you. It’s good stuff, even though I didn’t write it:)
Thank You! It was very helpful
Hi John, Glad to be of help. MJ always offered useful solutions to sticky problems:)
thakns,but more lines would have had made it more interesting!
Thank you, Just used your advice this morning.
Hi Marty, glad that you found it helpful.
One of the very useful articles that i came across