Everyone is sensitive to compliments. Research shows that a compliment is more motivating than, for example, a gift, because compliments contribute to a good feeling. And yet research shows that few compliments are given in practice, while we should do this more often.

The American psychologist Skinner discovered that behavior that is rewarded is repeated. Employee productivity is stimulated when appreciation is expressed in the workplace. Moreover, a compliment ensures more involvement, promotes performance and giving compliments is a small effort, with a great effect.

National Complimenting

March 1 is National Compliments Day. The moment to reflect on the power of compliments. In this blog we give a number of tips on how to give and receive a compliment. Because as down-to-earth Dutch people, we often find it difficult to deal with compliments.

How do you give a compliment?

There are different ways to give a compliment. You can express a compliment directly by, for example, at the end of a meeting thanking the chairman or teacher for the good organization or the things you have learned. Or give a pat on the back to the colleague who was responsible for the beautiful presentation. Another nice idea: some companies use a compliments bulletin board. Anyone can write compliments on this. No matter how you give a compliment, there is one rule attached to it and that is: be sincere.

“Only when we can receive with heart and soul can we give with heart and soul.” Hererd Prinsen – HPC Training

How do you receive a compliment?

Receiving a compliment is not easy for everyone. Often people feel uncomfortable, look down or blush when receiving a compliment.
Another reaction that often occurs is: ''Well it wasn't that much'' or ''It's nothing special, anyone can do that''. All of these responses are completely unnecessary. All you have to say is thank you. Just thank you!

Giving a compliment is a small effort and yields so much, what's stopping you!