Has anyone ever told you, “Great job!” or “That was impressive!” — only for you to respond with, “I got lucky,” or “It was nothing!” If you’re downplaying your accomplishments at work, you’re potentially sabotaging your career. Outside the office, you might be undermining your relationships.
As the CEO of Soulcast Media and a global communication expert who’s taught over 2 million professionals how to speak with confidence, I know many people feel uncomfortable accepting compliments because they’re afraid it can come across as arrogant. However, in my book, “Smart, Not Loud: How to Get Noticed at Work for All the Right Reasons,” I talk about how accepting praise is a great way to foster deeper connection.
To start, you have to change your mindset around compliments. Instead of feeling awkward, embrace a “visibility mindset.” This means actively and intentionally making your contributions, value, and presence known.
On the job, it ensures people see the impact you’re making — rather than assuming your work will speak for itself. It’s not boastful, it’s strategic. With friends and family, it can show people you value their opinion and appreciate their acknowledgement.
But what do you actually say? Here’s how to accept a compliment in three simple steps:
1. Express gratitude
Think of a compliment as a gift someone has picked out specifically for you. When a friend takes time to choose a present and offers it to you with enthusiasm, you wouldn’t push it away saying, “No, no, I can’t accept this.” That would feel dismissive and hurtful. Instead, you’d naturally smile and express your appreciation.
Compliments deserve the same kind of response. You can say:
“Thank you!” “I appreciate the compliment.””It’s really nice to be recognized.” “Thank you, Sheila, it means a lot coming from you.”
The key is to respond with warmth and sincerity. Keep your tone genuine and relaxed, and don’t forget to smile.
2. Add perspective
In a professional setting, reflect on how the work made you feel and shift the spotlight toward your efforts and abilities. When you offer this kind of context, you build on the impression that you’re capable and strategic.
For example, after you show gratitude, you can say:
“Meeting the client’s deadline was no small task, but I’m so glad it all came together.” “I absolutely loved having the opportunity to share our team’s numbers with senior leadership today. We are really proud of what we’ve accomplished.”
Similarly, when speaking with friends and family, adding perspective can invite deeper and more meaningful conversations. For instance, when a friend compliments your cooking, instead of, “Oh, it was just a simple recipe,” try:
“Thank you! I’ve been experimenting with new flavors lately, and I’m glad you enjoyed it.”
3. Recognize others
Accepting compliments is one of the best ways to reinforce what you’ve accomplished at work. It also gives you the chance to highlight other people and demonstrate your collaboration skills.
For example, after you show gratitude and add perspective, you can say:
“It truly was a team effort. I’m lucky to have an amazing team to work with.””The event was a huge success. I couldn’t have done it without Ashley. She helped bring this vision to life, too.”
In non-work related conversations, recognizing others can build social influence. When you bring others into the conversation, you’re making them feel valued and acknowledged. This is emotional intelligence at its finest and it’s the best way to create an environment where everyone feels seen and celebrated.
In the end, compliments are a golden opportunity to foster connection — whether you’re speaking to a coworker, boss, friend, or family member. It’s a doorway that can lead to visibility and recognition at work and meaningful conversations everywhere you go.
Jessica Chen, the founder and CEO of Soulcast Media, has taught over 2 million people how to elevate their communication skills. She’s a keynote speaker and a former Emmy-Award Winning TV journalist. Her book “Smart, Not Loud: How to Get Noticed at Work for All the Right Reasons” teaches smart professionals how to develop workplace confidence and build a career they love using strategic communications skills to stand out. Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn and Instagram.
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