THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPLIMENTS
Do you ever compliment your friends, neighbors, family members or people you work with? Many people don't! According to research, one reason is that we are afraid of how the person may react. Without realizing it, we worry that they will think we are not honest and that we don't really mean what we are saying, or that we will both feel embarrassed. So, instead of praising them, we often say nothing.(lines 1–4)
However, according to Seth Kramer, a professor of behavioral science, there is no reason to worry about giving compliments. "Praising people has great benefits for both sides," he says. "Our studies show that people are usually happy to receive a compliment. It puts the recipient (the person who receives the compliment) in a good mood. If we could just realize that there is no need to feel uncomfortable when praising someone, we could improve our relationships with family, friends and colleagues."(lines 5–9)
Canadian researcher Professor Karen Green has found that giving compliments is an effective way to get others to do helpful things. "Compliments help the recipients feel good about themselves and so the person receiving your compliment is more willing to do something for others, like driving a colleague home or doing extra work at the office."(lines 10–13)
However, the researchers advise people to follow some rules when giving compliments. First, don't exaggerate! The recipient may feel that the praise is not honest. Second, ask yourself how well you know each other. "It's not always clear how a stranger or colleague will react to your compliment," says Professor Green. Therefore, only compliment them if you are sure the situation is appropriate. Last, try not to comment on someone's appearance unless you know the person well. It's best to compliment on the person's actions or work.(lines 14–19)
Both researchers believe, however, that we should stop worrying. Giving praise doesn't require special skills and we all have the power to use positive words. So give a compliment! It is a wonderful way to make someone feel happy.(lines 20–22)