Giving and receiving compliments - Interdemiate English lesson

Summary

In this lesson, SEMA discusses the art of giving and receiving compliments, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, specificity, and timeliness in delivering compliments. She advises against comparisons and suggests acknowledging achievements without undermining others. For receiving compliments, SEMA encourages gracious acceptance and modesty, avoiding the urge to upstage or immediately reciprocate compliments. This approach fosters stronger relationships and helps individuals appreciate positive feedback, making the process of giving and receiving compliments a rewarding experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sincerity is crucial when giving compliments; they should reflect genuine feelings.
• 😀 Compliments should be spontaneous to avoid coming across as insincere.
• 😀 Being specific in your compliments makes them more meaningful and impactful.
• 😀 Avoid generalizations; focus on particular achievements to enhance the compliment's effectiveness.
• 😀 Do not compare someone's achievements with others when giving compliments.
• 😀 Timeliness matters; offer compliments immediately after an achievement for maximum effect.
• 😀 Accept compliments graciously by saying 'thank you' without downplaying your accomplishments.
• 😀 Avoid disagreeing with compliments; acknowledging them positively builds rapport.
• 😀 Do not upscale compliments; maintain modesty instead of inflating their value.
• 😀 Refrain from complimenting back immediately to keep interactions sincere and genuine.

Q & A

Why is giving and receiving compliments important?

Compliments strengthen bonds and improve relationships between people.

What is the number one priority when giving a compliment?

Sincerity is the top priority; compliments should be genuine and spontaneous.

How can one ensure a compliment sounds sincere?

A sincere compliment should be spontaneous, enthusiastic, and positive, reflecting genuine feelings.

Why is specificity important in compliments?

Being specific makes compliments more effective by acknowledging particular achievements or qualities rather than generalizing.

What should you avoid when giving compliments?

Avoid comparing the person’s achievements to others; each compliment should be based solely on the individual’s merits.

What does 'being timely' in giving compliments mean?

It means offering compliments immediately after an achievement or action, enhancing the impact of the compliment.

What is a proper way to receive a compliment?

Accept the compliment graciously by simply saying 'thank you' with a smile, without downplaying or disagreeing with the compliment.

What does 'upscaling' a compliment refer to?

Upscaling a compliment means increasing its value or significance, which can come off as immodest and insincere.

Is it necessary to compliment back immediately when receiving a compliment?

No, it's best to avoid immediately returning a compliment, as it may seem insincere; just accept the compliment graciously.

What should you do if you can't give a timely compliment?

You can follow up later with a thank you card or note expressing appreciation for the person’s action.