How to give compliments: rules of etiquette

Compliments can be a great way to show consideration and courtesy. However, not everyone knows how to say nice things in the right way so as not to cross the line between simple politeness and outright courtship or even arrogance.

Compliments are an important part of healthy communication. Yulia Yudina, an etiquette expert, explained how to attract the interlocutor with pleasant words while being polite and not inappropriate.

Rule 1

When talking to a friend, colleague or business partner, you can use different types of compliments.

A "silent" compliment consists of active listening and showing attention through gestures: smiling, nodding, etc.

There are also paradoxical types of pleasant words, the so-called "anti-compliments". For example, you can say to a friend, "You're so good at styling your hair, I never do it that way."

An incomplete complement is considered "aerobatic" as you can hint at the attractiveness or talents of your interlocutor and leave your thought open-ended so that the person can imagine it on their own.

Rule 2

A compliment must be truthful. Otherwise, it will turn into flattery. Pay attention to tone, gestures, and facial expressions.

Rule 3

Don't forget the rule of brevity. A compliment should be short. Excessive praise can be perceived as outright flattery.

Rule 4

Another rule of a quality compliment is that it should increase the interlocutor's self-esteem. Pleasant words are aimed not only at improving the mood and expressing admiration but also at increasing the interlocutor's authority among others.

Rule 5

A compliment should be appropriate. Every compliment has its place and purpose. A successful compliment for your friend may be unsuccessful for your lover or colleague.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA shared why women should not apologize for anything.

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