Offering Compliments Can Be Powerful

Who among us doesn’t like to receive compliments?  OK, some of us are uncomfortable receiving compliments and respond with phrases such as “it was nothing” or “no big deal” or an awkward “thanks.” I understand that as I find myself responding that way at times. In business, just as in life, offering compliments can be powerful, and can go a long way in helping employee motivation. For compliments to be effective, though, they have to have several components:
1. They must be genuine and come from your heart. If you give compliments just to motivate employees, they will think your words aren’t authentic, and you won’t get the value you intended.
2. Be specific. Don’t simply say “good job with the presentation.” Tell them specifically what about the presentation was effective. Did they keep the audience engaged? Was the content spot on?  The more specific you are, the greater the likelihood they will repeat this same behavior.
3. Tell the recipient in the moment. Whether they are dressed especially nicely today, handled a client situation masterfully, or you’ve noticed them working on improving their skills in a specific area…whatever it is, tell them right them. The power of the compliment is in the present, not two weeks from now when they won’t even remember what they did.
4. Give them freely and often. You can’t use compliments once in a blue moon and hope it helps with employee motivation. You have to give them freely and often. That’s not to say every day, or even every week. Noticing what others are doing and letting them know is impactful.
5. Encourage others to offer compliments. It’s always nice to hear from your boss that they think you did something wonderful. It’s exciting to hear it from others…colleagues and other managers. If you create a culture where employees are encouraged to recognize each other’s performance, it makes it effective beyond imagination.
6. Be careful how often you compliment. Yes, it’s important to recognize a job well done, but you don’t want to dilute the value of the compliment. Employee motivation will be lessened if you compliment every little thing. Recognize the big accomplishments and share how you feel about them.
Offering compliments can go a long way toward improving employee motivation, if they are used properly and at the right time. You may have trouble accepting compliments from others so you find it equally difficult to give them. If you recognize yourself here, just remember: You aren’t complimenting on just anything, but on things that you see as significant. Start small if you have to, but start dishing out those compliments.

source:http://incedogroup.com