Thursday, March 26, 2009

Compliments



"Free Compliments" guys from Purdue University who stand by the Wetherill Laboratory of Chemistry every Wednesday afternoon to give compliments to people passing by.

Social Skill 11: Giving Compliments

When you want to say something nice about someone, you should:

1. Look at the other person.
2. Give the compliment. Tell him or her exactly what you liked.
3. Make a follow-up statement. If the person says “Thanks,” say “You’re welcome,” in return.

Reasons for using the skill, Giving Compliments: Giving compliments shows that you notice the accomplishments of others. People like being around someone who is pleasant, friendly, and says nice things. It also shows that you have confidence in your ability to talk to others.

* Think of the exact words you want to use before you give the compliment. It will make you feel more confident and you’ll be less likely to fumble around for words.
* Mean what you say. People can tell the difference between sincerity and phoniness.
* Don’t overdo it. A couple of sentences will do. (“You did a good job at …” or “You really did well in ….”)
* Smile and be enthusiastic when you give compliments. It makes the other person fells that you really mean it.

Expressions you can use to compliment others:
  • You look ...
  • What a lovely ...
  • You speak English ...
  • I like your new ...
  • Your perm is ...
  • Where did you get that (indirect ) ...
  • You write very well, you should ...
  • I admire your ...
  • Well done, your work ...
  • Congratulations on your ...
  • Keep up the good work, ...
  • You take after your mother/father, ..
Exercises:
How to compliment: ESL test for intermediate level students

Taken from:
Parenting.org
Giving and Accepting Compliments

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