Tomorrow is National Compliment Day, and the day serves as a reminder of the power of positive words. When you give someone a compliment, you express appreciation for something that’s unique about them or something they did. Compliments can create a more positive work culture, improve relationships, and make your organization more successful.
This 2005 article from USA Today reminds us that compliments at work are not just about making us feel good, but it’s also “about company performance. Employees function better when their positive efforts are noticed and valued.”
The truth is negative comments are much more prevalent in our world today, and they’re more powerful, too. Psychologists have found that it takes 10 positive comments to offset one negative comment. That means you’re going to need a lot of compliments in your workplace!
Make it a priority today to give five compliments to the people around you: your coworkers, boss, family, even the cashier at the grocery store. Here are five unique ways to give compliments and make someone’s day:
1. Send an ePraise. Browse our ePraise card collection and choose the ecard that is the best fit for your recipient. Add your compliment in the space available for a note and send. It’s a free, quick, and easy way to give a compliment.
2. Mail a Letter. In our technology-driven society, receiving a tangible piece of mail makes a big impact. Write a letter to a coworker or friend complimenting a recent accomplishment. Drop it in the mail to make a big impression with your compliment.
3. Surprise with a Print and Post. We created Print and Posts and made them available for free on our website to spread fun and cheer in the office. They’re also a great way to deliver a compliment. Download one of the pages and cut out a sentiment for your recipient. Tape it somewhere unexpected – like their computer monitor, locker, or car window. The note is certain to provoke a smile!
4. Deliver Verbal Praise. Giving a compliment in person is a powerful way to make someone feel appreciated. Stop by your coworker’s desk and be specific with your compliment. You can even emphasize your appreciation with a high five, fist bump, or handshake.
A Baudville employee’s Compliment Corner – full of handwritten notes she’s received from managers and coworkers.
5. Write a Handwritten Note. Compliments that are tangible have staying power. Put your praise into a handwritten note, and I guarantee the recipient will treasure it! At Baudville, employees keep and display their Shout Outs and Pocket Praise from managers, coworkers, and executives at their desks for years. The compliments are proudly displayed for others to read, or when the employee needs a pick-me-up.
What is your favorite way to give compliments and praise? Share your ideas with us here!
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Cori is Baudville’s in-house Recognitionista (she’s officially a Certified Recognition Professional, too) and a member of the Millennial generation. Get her employee recognition tips and special discounts by liking Baudville on Facebook.
